Senior Manager / Assistant Director, Finance (Finance Partner)

A*STAR advances science and develops innovative technology to further economic growth and improve lives. The Finance Partner works alongside A*STAR Research Entities (ARES) to provide financial services and advice within a Shared Services operating environment.

A*STAR is an Accredited Training Organisation (ATO) certified by the Singapore Accountancy Commission (SAC) to possess the appropriate standards of staff training, accountancy resources, and development for Singapore CA Qualification candidates to fulfill their Practical Experience required to qualify as a Chartered Accountant of Singapore.

A*STAR is also a Recognised Employer Partner with CPA Australia, affirming our commitment to excellence in professional development and fostering the growth of our employees in the field of Finance and Accounting.

JOB DESCRIPTION

General

• Oversee all financial aspects of the research entities (RIs) assigned.
• Responsible for client-facing and addressing queries by the RIs.
• Ensure internal controls and financial procedures comply with A*STAR Financial Policy and Procedures (FPP).
• Liaise with RIs to provide financial insights and advice to achieve business objectives.
• Liaise with key management of the RIs on fund management.
• Analyse and provide financial information to senior management.
• Focus on continuous improvements and lead improvement initiatives.
• Supervise and oversee staff.

Annual Budgeting Exercise

• Coordinate with RIs for the annual budgeting exercise and work on the budget plan.

Fund Management

• Monitor all funds received by the RIs.
• Collaborate with RIs to analyse and forecast budget utilisation.
• Review the fund structure for all funds under the RIs and guide staff to enable management reporting.

Financial and Management Reporting

• Analyse monthly management accounts and present financial performance at monthly management meetings.
• Prepare Audit Committee (AC) presentation slides and conduct the presentation during AC meetings.
• Work with council colleagues to provide overall insights on financials of research entities.
• Liaise with other finance colleagues on closing of month-end/year-end accounts, statutory audit, and annual tax filings.
• Liaise with Internal Auditors, External Auditors, and Tax Agents when required.

Others

• Identify and understand business challenges; propose solutions and lead improvement initiatives.
• Oversee and provide guidance to staff.
• Ad hoc tasks as assigned.

JOB REQUIREMENTS

• Possess at least 8 years of relevant experience in financial planning and analysis, as well as financial operations and reporting.
• Strong analytical, communication, interpersonal, and stakeholder engagement skills.
• High learning agility and adaptability.
• Able to multi-task and deliver results under tight timelines.
• Knowledge of SAP system will be advantageous.
• Involvement in system automation projects will be advantageous.