Assistant Director, Treasury & Governance, Office of Finance

Singapore Management University; Singapore; On-site; SGD 90,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading educational institution in Singapore seeks an experienced finance manager to oversee its financial books and ensure compliance with relevant regulations. The role involves leading audits, guiding on financial strategies, and managing a team. Candidates should hold an Accounting or Business degree and have significant managerial experience in financial accounting, with a proficiency in SAP and data analytics tools. Strong communication and leadership skills are crucial for success in this role.

Qualifications

• At least 10 years of relevant financial accounting experience and 5 years in a managerial position.
• Experience in the government or education sector would be advantageous.
• Strong technical knowledge in accounting and FRS.

Responsibilities

• Manage financial books ensuring compliance with SFRS and local requirements.
• Lead statutory audits and submissions to management and authorities.
• Provide guidance on financial strategies and oversee accounting policies.

Skills

Financial accounting

Tax compliance

Audit management

Intercompany transactions

Data analytics

Microsoft Office proficiency

SAP knowledge

Education

Degree or professional qualification in Accounting or Business

Chartered Accountant (CA) / Certified Public Accountant (CPA)

Tools

SAP

Dashboarding tools

Job description

• Manage the consolidated and individual financial books of the University and its subsidiaries and overseas offices, ensuring compliance with Singapore Financial Reporting Standards (SFRS) and applicable local statutory requirements.

• Lead statutory audits and filings and coordinate other reporting obligations to management, government authorities, and related agencies.

• Oversee core financial accounting functions, including general ledger, fixed assets, taxation and governance.

• Oversee the monthly and annual closing process and ensure timely, accurate financial reporting.

• Review audit schedules and maintain the Chart of Accounts.

• Oversee fixed asset management, including capitalisation, disposals, register maintenance, schedules, and depreciation runs.

• Review and ensure accuracy of tax submissions.

• Monitor developments in tax regulations, assess their impact on the University, and provide recommendations for tax planning.

• Liaise with external auditors, tax agents, and regulators in both Singapore and overseas jurisdictions to ensure compliance and smooth reporting cycles.

• Provide guidance on intercompany transactions, transfer pricing, and foreign exchange impacts.

• Perform valuation of investments.

• Evaluate complex accounting issues and address technical queries on financial and reporting matters.

• Develop, implement, and refine accounting policies, procedures, and controls, including guidance on new accounting treatments and transactions requiring significant judgment or estimates.

• Drive continuous improvement initiatives to strengthen financial policies, processes, and controls.

• Support the development of long-term financial strategies for the University and its subsidiaries.

• Conduct scenario analysis, forecasting, and modeling to inform strategic decision-making.

• Collaborate across functions to deliver analysis, insights, and efficient financial processes that support departmental objectives.

• Prepare reports, briefing papers, and presentations for senior management, the Board, and other stakeholders.

• Support and coordinate internal audit engagements across finance functions, ensuring follow-through of recommendations.

• Represent SMU in interactions with external stakeholders and collaborate with internal stakeholders on financial matters.

• Manage or support financial systems implementation and IT-related projects.

• Drive adoption of automation, digital tools, and analytics in finance processes.

• Lead finance-related and cross-departmental projects.

• Supervise and develop team members, providing guidance, training, and oversight of all reporting activities.

• Perform other ad-hoc duties and responsibilities as assigned.

Qualification

• Degree or professional qualification in Accounting or Business with at least 10 years of relevant financial accounting experience and 5 years in a managerial position.

• Candidates with Chartered Accountant (CA) / Certified Public Accountant (CPA) would be advantageous.

• Audit experience, especially with the Big 4, would be advantageous.

• Experience in the government or education sector would be advantageous.

• Experience with overseas operations and reporting would be advantageous.

• Strong technical knowledge in accounting, well versed in FRS and its application.

• Demonstrated ability to resolve complex accounting issues and lead statutory audits.

• Attuned with the latest accounting and law regulations.

• Highly proficient in Microsoft Office applications.

• Strong written and verbal communication and presentation skills.

• Knowledge and hands-on experience in SAP will be advantageous.

• Experience with data analytics and dashboarding tools will be advantageous.

• Proactive, detail-oriented, and capable of driving process improvements and strengthening governance.

• Highly motivated individual, resourceful and able to multi-task and work independently.

• Good analytical and organisation skills, able to work flexibly to lead projects and demonstrate critical thinking to problem solve.

• Excellent communication, stakeholder management, and cross-cultural collaboration skills.

• Effective team lead in a hands-on management capacity.

Other Information

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Candidates who do not possess the stipulated qualifications but have relevant work experience may still apply. Remuneration and appointment terms shall commensurate with qualifications and experience. SMU reserves the right to modify the appointment terms where necessary.