Finance Manager

Cornerstone Preparatory Academy is a Christ-centered educational institution committed to providing holistic, transformational education to Kenyan children. The Academy exists to provide all that is necessary for every child that we serve at every age so that they may grow to be WORLD changers. We are seeking a highly competent, ethical, and strategic Finance Manager to join our leadership team and provide financial stewardship that supports this vital mission.

Job Summary:
We are looking for a seasoned and principled Finance Manager to provide strategic financial leadership and oversee the day-to-day financial operations of the Academy. The ideal candidate will act as a guardian of institutional resources, ensuring transparency, accountability, and long-term financial sustainability. You will work closely with school leadership to guide budgeting, strengthen internal controls, and support strategic decision-making.

Key Responsibilities:

Financial Strategy & Stewardship

• Provide overall financial stewardship and oversight of all institutional financial resources, ensuring funds are managed responsibly and in alignment with the school's mission.

• Support leadership in strategic planning, resource mobilization, and long-term financial sustainability initiatives.

• Provide financial analysis, cost-control strategies, and sustainability planning to support organizational growth and development.

Budgeting & Forecasting

• Lead the preparation of the annual institutional budget, quarterly forecasts, and multi-year funding projections in collaboration with department heads.

• Monitor financial performance through detailed monthly Budget-vs-Actual analysis, identifying variances and providing actionable strategic recommendations to leadership.

Financial Operations & Compliance

• Oversee all core accounting functions, including accounts payable, accounts receivable, payroll processing, bank reconciliations, and the general ledger.

• Ensure full compliance with institutional financial policies, donor funding requirements (if applicable), and all relevant Kenyan statutory regulations (including KRA, NSSF, NHIF, and others).

• Coordinate and prepare for internal and external audits, ensuring all financial records are accurate, complete, and audit-ready.

Internal Controls & Risk Management

• Strengthen and enforce robust internal control systems to safeguard assets and prevent financial mismanagement.

• Ensure the accuracy and integrity of all financial reporting.

Team Leadership & Supervision

• Supervise, mentor, and manage the performance of finance, accounting, and procurement staff, fostering a culture of excellence, integrity, and continuous improvement.

Qualifications & Requirements:

• Education: Bachelor’s Degree in Finance, Accounting, Business Administration, or a related field from a recognized institution.

• Professional Certification: Certified Public Accountant of Kenya (CPA-K) qualification is mandatory.

• Membership: Registered member of the Institute of Certified Public Accountants of Kenya (ICPAK) in good standing.

• Experience: Minimum of 5 years of proven experience in a senior finance or financial management role, with increasing levels of responsibility.

• Preferred Context: Experience working in a school, NGO, or nonprofit environment is a distinct added advantage.

Personal Attributes & Qualities:

• Integrity & Ethics: Unquestionable integrity, accountability, and a high standard of ethical conduct, aligned with the Christian foundation of the institution.

• Financial Leadership: Demonstrated expertise in financial leadership, internal controls, and risk management.

• Analytical Skills: Strong analytical, budgeting, and financial reporting skills with high attention to detail.

• Team Management: Proven ability to lead, mentor, and develop a high-performing team.

• Communication: Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to translate complex financial information for non-financial stakeholders.

• Mission Alignment: A personal commitment to the mission, vision, and values of Cornerstone Preparatory Academy.

Why Join Cornerstone Preparatory Academy?

• An opportunity to use your professional skills to make a lasting impact on the next generation of WORLD changers.

• A leadership role within a growing, mission-driven organization.

• A collaborative and supportive work environment rooted in Christian values.

• A competitive salary and benefits package commensurate with experience.