Finance Manager (Remote, UK-Based) – Education Sub Saharan Africa (ESSA)

Location: Remote (UK-based)
Hours: Full-time (35 hours/week) or flexible part-time (70%–80%)
Contract: Two years (renewable subject to funding)
Salary: £40,000 – £55,000 (depending on experience)
Closing Date: Wednesday 30 July 2025, 5pm GMT

About ESSA

Education Sub Saharan Africa (ESSA) is a charity dedicated to improving education outcomes across sub-Saharan Africa. ESSA works with educators, researchers, and policymakers to co-design solutions grounded in data and evidence, empowering education systems to drive sustainable development.

The Opportunity

ESSA is hiring a detail-oriented and proactive Finance Manager to lead its UK financial operations while supporting cross-border finance functions. You’ll play a crucial role in maintaining high standards of financial reporting, donor compliance, budgeting, and strategic planning.

Key Responsibilities

• Produce monthly management accounts and perform variance analysis

• Lead year-end procedures and coordinate annual audit processes

• Ensure compliance with UK charity accounting standards and SORP

• Manage financial reporting for donor-funded projects (e.g. African Centre for School Leadership)

• Oversee budgeting, forecasting, and reforecasting processes

• Strengthen internal financial systems, policies, and controls

• Support financial capacity building across ESSA’s international team

Candidate Profile

Essential:

• ACCA, ACA, CIMA (or equivalent) qualified accountant

• Minimum 5 years of finance experience in a UK-registered charity

• Strong knowledge of UK charity regulations and SORP

• Experience leading audits and supporting international operations

• Proficiency with Excel and financial software (e.g., AccountsIQ, QuickBooks)

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills

• Self-driven, detail-focused, and capable of working independently in a remote, international team

Desirable:

• Experience in international development, education, or Africa-focused programmes

About the Culture

ESSA is a dynamic, impact-driven organisation with a values-led approach. Its team is spread across regions but deeply collaborative and committed to evidence-based, solution-oriented change.