Head of Finance

At Explorers Early Learning, we're a family-owned organisation creating exceptional early learning experiences for children, families and our team. With a growing network of purpose-built Centres across Melbourne, we're seeking an experienced Head of Finance to lead our Finance function and support our continued growth.
About the OpportunityReporting to the Chief Transformation Officer, the Head of Finance will lead day to day performance of the Finance function, ensuring financial information is accurate, timely and decision ready.You'll oversee a broad Finance portfolio spanning Financial Control, Management Reporting, FP&A, Payroll, Compliance, Finance Systems and Transactional Finance, while leading and developing a high-performing Finance team.
This is a hands-on senior leadership role where you'll have the opportunity to strengthen systems and processes, improve financial controls, enhance reporting and partner with leaders across the organisation to support informed commercial decision-making.
What You'll Be Responsible For:Lead and manage the day-to-day Finance function, establishing clear accountability, service standards and operating rhythmsOwn month-end and year-end reporting, ensuring accurate, timely and fully reconciled financial informationOversee statutory reporting, taxation, audit, payroll governance and regulatory compliance, including BAS, GST, PAYG and superannuationMaintain strong financial controls, delegations of authority, segregation of duties and fraud-prevention measuresLead annual budgeting, rolling forecasts and longer-term financial planningProvide meaningful financial analysis, scenario planning and recommendations to support executive decision-makingSupport cash-flow forecasting, liquidity management, banking relationships, treasury operations and covenant reportingDrive Finance systems, process improvement, automation and transformation initiativesUse technology, data and emerging tools such as AI and automation to improve accuracy, efficiency and scalability
About YouWe're looking for an experienced Finance leader who combines strong technical expertise with commercial judgement and exceptional people leadership.You'll ideally bring:CA or CPA qualificationA degree in Accounting, Finance or a related discipline8+ years' experience in Finance leadership, with substantial post-qualification experienceExperience leading Finance operations within a complex, regulated, multi-site or multi-entity organisationStrong expertise across financial control, statutory reporting, taxation, audit, payroll governance, treasury and cash flowProven experience across budgeting, forecasting, scenario analysis and management reportingDemonstrated experience leading and developing multidisciplinary Finance teamsStrong commercial business partnering and executive-level communication skillsExperience improving Finance systems, processes, controls and reporting, including ERP implementation or transformationHigh integrity, sound judgement and a strong sense of accountability
Experience within education, health, childcare or another highly regulated, multi-site environment will be highly regarded.
Why Explorers?When Lynda Salvo founded Explorers in 2004, her vision was simple but powerful: to build centres where children and educators could truly thrive together. That mission hasn't changed. Every decision we make - from the environments we create to the people we bring into our team, is guided by Lynda's founding belief that exceptional early learning starts with exceptional people.
We invest in our team, create clear pathways for growth, and foster a culture built on accountability, curiosity, and genuine care.You will enjoy: Ongoing Professional Learning & Development OpportunitiesCulture Club & Team Events Annual Explorers Awards Night Exclusive Employee Retail Discount Program designed to save you money, with access to discounted in-store and online vouchers from hundreds of retailers Central Melbourne Support Office – Southbank location

Our Commitment to Child SafetyChild safety is everyone's responsibility at Explorers. Every team member, regardless of their role, contributes to creating a culture where children are safe, respected and empowered to speak up.We are committed to ongoing education, reflection and improvement, and we value diversity and inclusion across our organisation. We welcome people from all backgrounds and are committed to creating an environment where everyone can contribute and thrive.
If you're an accomplished Finance leader looking for an opportunity to make a meaningful impact across a growing organisation, we'd love to hear from you.
Apply now to join Explorers Early Learning.