About the business
Our client is an established specialist consultancy providing professional services to organisations across several states and territories. Their work is purpose-driven, and the team takes pride in delivering accurate, practical advice and services that are meaningful to each client.

Engagements range from short, targeted projects to complex matters that run over many months, alongside ongoing retainers with clients. It has a small, experienced team with a cooperative way of working and delivering services.

About the role
Reporting directly to the directors, you will look after the finance, compliance and client operations of the business. It is a hands-on role. One day you might be processing payroll or following up an invoice, and the next you are preparing reporting that shows the directors how the business is performing and where it can grow.

Over time, you will become a trusted finance adviser to the directors, providing the financial insight and practical advice they need to make informed decisions and deliver on the direction they set for the business. You will also strengthen the finance function by improving its systems, processes and reporting.

You will be responsible for:

- Monthly management reports, the annual budget and cash flow forecasts, supported by meaningful analysis of business performance and key drivers
- The full finance cycle in Xero, including payroll, creditors, debtors, bank reconciliations, IAS and BAS
- Client invoicing across different fee structures and billing arrangements
- Keeping the compliance cycle on track, including insurance renewals and workers compensation across several states
- Client operations, from new enquiries and quotes through to setting up new engagements and managing retainers




- Finding ways to improve processes and bring more structure to how the finance function runs
- Leading IT, AI projects as well as other ad hoc business related projects
- Work with the external accountants and other third-party providers

About you

- CA or CPA qualified, with a strong finance and accounting background
- Hands-on Xero experience is essential
- The ability to produce reporting and analysis that gives clear insight into margins and performance
- Experience with client billing and project-based invoicing
- Exposure to a practice management system is highly regarded
- Proactive and self-directed. You manage competing priorities calmly and follow things through to completion
- A strong internal customer service mindset. You are responsive, approachable and work collaboratively with the directors and team to understand their needs and provide practical support
- Discretion and sound judgement when handling highly sensitive and confidential information
- A practical, solutions-focused approach. You identify potential risks early and bring practical ideas to address them
- Happy to move between the detail and the bigger picture, and to pitch in on whatever needs doing. In a small team everyone shares the load, including the directors
- Comfortable with technology, with an interest in AI a real plus

Why apply

- Purpose-driven work in a growing business
- Work closely with the directors as their trusted finance adviser
- Variety, with work spanning finance, compliance, client operations and technology

How to apply
This search is being managed confidentially by [axr] recruitment & search. The client’s name will be shared with shortlisted candidates. Background checks will be required for the successful candidate.

Click apply, or for a confidential conversation, contact Yolande Maritz at [axr]

📌 Finance Operations Manager (Sydney)
🏢 axr Recruitment & Search
📍 Sydney