Finance Manager - Essa Africa : Job Details

Finance Manager

Are you an experienced finance professional looking to make a meaningful impact in education across sub-Saharan Africa?

Position: Finance ManagerLocation: Remote (UK-based), with occasional travel as requiredHours: Full-time (35 hours per week), with flexibility for 70%-80% part-time arrangementsContract: Two years, with possible renewal subject to fundingSalary: £40 - £55k per annum, depending on experienceClosing Date: Wednesday 30th July 2025 at 5pm GMT

About the RoleWe’re looking for a motivated and detail-driven Finance Manager to join ESSA’s international team and lead our UK financial operations. This vital role will support both UK and global finance functions, ensuring high-quality financial reporting, audit preparation, budgeting and compliance.

Key responsibilities include:

• Preparing monthly management accounts and variance analysis
• Leading year-end and audit processes for ESSA’s UK operations
• Ensuring compliance with charity accounting standards and SORP
• Managing financial reporting for donor-funded projects, including the African Centre for School Leadership (ACSL)
• Supporting budget development, forecasting and reforecasting
• Strengthening finance systems and controls, and developing financial capacity across the team

About YouWe’re looking for a qualified accountant (ACCA, ACA, CIMA or equivalent) with:

• At least 5 years’ experience in a finance role in a UK-registered charity
• Strong knowledge of UK charity accounting regulations and SORP
• Experience managing audits and supporting cross-border operations
• Advanced Excel and financial systems skills (AccountsIQ or QuickBooks an advantage)
• Excellent attention to detail and the ability to communicate financial information clearly
• The confidence to work independently in a remote, international team

Experience working in Africa or the international development or education sectors would be an advantage.

About the OrganisationEducation Sub Saharan Africa (ESSA) improves education outcomes across sub-Saharan Africa by using data and evidence to drive change. We work in partnership with researchers, educators, policymakers and employers to co-design solutions that strengthen education systems. Our values - evidence-driven, solutions-focused, building trust, and always learning - shape everything we do.

Other roles you may have experience of could include: Charity Finance Manager, International Finance Lead, Head of Finance, Programme Finance Manager, Accountant - INGO, Financial Controller, Grants & Compliance Manager, Remote Finance Manager.

PLEASE NOTE: This role is being advertised by NFP People on behalf of the organisation.