SME Chief Financial Officer

SME Chief Financial Officer

Full-Time 135000 - 165000 $ / year (est.) Remote
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At a Glance

  • Tasks: Drive company performance and manage finance functions with a focus on growth.
  • Company: PE-backed asset in the Education sector, headquartered in Australia.
  • Benefits: Flexible working arrangements, including remote options and part-time roles.
  • Other info: Ideal for junior CFOs or experienced candidates seeking flexible work.
  • Why this job: Be a strategic partner to the CEO and make impactful financial decisions.
  • Qualifications: 10 years in finance leadership, strong analytical and leadership skills.

The predicted salary is between 135000 - 165000 $ per year.

Clearwater Partners is leading the search on behalf of a PE‑backed asset in the Education sector to appoint their next Chief Financial Officer. The company is headquartered in Australia with significant revenues generated from overseas, including the US markets. The CFO will partner closely with the CEO, Board and management team to drive performance, focusing on both top‑line growth and competent financial management to increase underlying profitability.

The CFO also looks after a small team managing day‑to‑day activities including AP, AR and payroll, financial reporting, audit process, compliance, bank relationships and stringent cash flow management. The position includes budgeting and forecasting and ensuring accurate and insightful analysis when compiling board reports to aid future decision making. This position is seen as a strategic partner to the CEO, providing useful financial insights into growth verticals, evaluating new segments/markets and fostering closer connections with current customers.

There is flexibility on how this role is shaped given the CEO is based in the U.S. The company is open to candidates based in QLD (office location) but will consider fully remote candidates on the East Coast, including both full‑time and part‑time working arrangements depending on the seniority of the candidate.

Responsibilities

  • Strategic partner to the CEO to drive performance of the company
  • Manage all day‑to‑day aspects of the finance function with a focus on overseeing cash flow, cash management, working capital, and company audits
  • Prepare financial statements and reports
  • Ensure legal compliance on all financial functions
  • Foster productive and strong relationships with banks
  • Foster close relationships with investors

Qualifications

  • Strong finance‑based analytical skills
  • Strong leadership skills
  • 10 years of experience in finance leadership roles with at least one CFO position
  • MBA preferred but not required
  • Ability to work productively with a largely remote based global team

If you are seeking an opportunity where there is flexibility depending on your circumstances then this could be the CFO opportunity for you. This position would suit a more junior CFO looking to enter the world of PE or a credentialed CFO looking for a 3 or 4 day a week arrangement.

Please reach out to Shaun Stevens, Director, who is leading this search mandate and will be managing the application process.

SME Chief Financial Officer employer: Clearwater Partners

Clearwater Partners is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment in the education sector with a strong focus on performance and growth. With flexible working arrangements and the opportunity to collaborate closely with senior leadership, employees can thrive both professionally and personally while contributing to meaningful financial strategies that impact the company's success. The supportive culture fosters employee development, making it an ideal place for those looking to advance their careers in finance.

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Contact Details:

Clearwater Partners Recruitment Team

We think you need these skills to ace SME Chief Financial Officer

Financial Management
Analytical Skills
Leadership Skills
Cash Flow Management
Budgeting and Forecasting
Financial Reporting
Compliance