Finance & Operations Manager

Australian Festival of Chamber Music North Queensland Ltd; Cairns Regional; Hybrid; AUD 60,000 - 90,000; Part time

Benefits offered by this job

Flexible part-time hours

Professional development

Not-for-profit sector experience

Inclusive workplace

Job summary

Australian Festival of Chamber Music North Queensland Ltd in Cairns, QLD is seeking a Finance & Operations Manager on a part-time, remote-friendly basis. You will oversee budgeting, accounting, reporting and day-to-day operations to keep the festival financially sustainable and well-organised.

Reporting to the Executive Director, you will work with staff and grant bodies, implement financial controls, manage accounts, and support governance and compliance while maintaining flexibility and

Qualifications

• Tertiary qualification in accounting, finance, or business administration (or equivalent).
• CPA/CA qualification is highly desirable.
• Minimum 3–5 years of financial management/operations experience.

Responsibilities

• Manage budgeting, forecasting, and financial reporting.
• Maintains accurate financial records and compliance with standards.
• Oversee accounts payable/receivable, cash flow, and bank reconciliations.
• Develop and monitor financial controls to safeguard assets.
• Coordinate with external auditors and assist audit processes.
• Oversee operational processes and systems for efficiency.
• Support grant applications and reporting to funding bodies.
• Provide financial insights to support strategic decisions.

Skills

Financial management

Budgeting

Forecasting

Regulatory compliance

Excel proficiency

Analytical thinking

Communication skills

Independent work

Education

Tertiary qualification in accounting/finance/business administration

CPA/CA desirable

Tools

Xero

Microsoft Excel

Grant management software

Job description

Australian Festival of Chamber Music North Queensland Ltd – Cairns QLD

Australian Festival of Chamber Music North Queensland Ltd is a dynamic and culturally significant organisation dedicated to promoting world-class chamber music experiences in Northern Queensland. We are committed to enriching our community through exceptional musical performances, educational programs, and cultural engagement. Our mission is to make chamber music accessible and inspiring to audiences of all backgrounds, whilst supporting talented musicians and fostering a vibrant cultural landscape.

About the role

We are seeking a talented and organised Finance & Operations Manager to join our team on a part-time basis (can work remotely). Reporting to the Executive Director, this role is crucial to the effective management of our organisation's financial and operational functions. As Finance & Operations Manager, you will be responsible for ensuring our financial sustainability, operational efficiency, and compliance with relevant regulations. This position plays a strategic role in supporting the Festival's growth and success, enabling us to continue delivering exceptional cultural experiences to our community.

Key responsibilities

Managing all aspects of financial operations including budgeting, forecasting, and financial reporting

Preparing and maintaining accurate financial records and ensuring compliance with accounting standards and regulatory requirements

Managing accounts payable and receivable processes, cash flow management, and bank reconciliations

Developing and monitoring financial controls and procedures to safeguard organisational assets

Coordinating with external auditors and preparing necessary financial documentation for audit purposes

Managing operational processes and systems to ensure efficient organisational functioning

Supporting grant applications and acquittals, including financial documentation and reporting to funding bodies

Analysing financial performance and providing recommendations to support strategic decision-making

Liaising with board members, staff, and external stakeholders on financial and operational matters

Contributing to the development of policies and procedures to enhance operational effectiveness

What we're looking for

Tertiary qualification in accounting, finance, or business administration (or equivalent professional experience)

Professional accounting qualification such as CPA, ICAA, or NZICA is highly desirable

Minimum 3–5 years of relevant experience in financial management, accounting, or operations within a similar organisational setting

Demonstrated proficiency with accounting software and financial management systems

Strong proficiency with Microsoft Excel and other relevant computer applications

Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills with meticulous attention to detail

Comprehensive knowledge of financial regulations, taxation, and compliance requirements

Strong written and verbal communication skills with the ability to explain financial information clearly to diverse audiences

Proven ability to work independently and manage multiple priorities in a dynamic environment

Experience working with not-for-profit organisations, arts organisations, or cultural institutions is preferred

Familiarity with grant management and funding body reporting is advantageous

A genuine passion for the arts and cultural engagement is valued

What we offer

We offer a rewarding opportunity to contribute to a culturally significant organisation whilst maintaining work-life balance through flexible part-time arrangements. You will work in a collaborative and creative environment where your financial expertise directly supports our mission to deliver exceptional cultural experiences. We provide professional development opportunities to enhance your skills and knowledge within the not-for-profit sector. The role offers autonomy and the opportunity to make a meaningful impact on the success and sustainability of the Festival. We are committed to fostering an inclusive workplace where all employees are valued and supported in achieving their professional goals.