Senior Assistant Director, Finance Partner

Summary

The Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR) is Singapore's lead public sector R&D agency. Through open innovation, we collaborate with our partners in both the public and private sectors to benefit the economy and society. A*STAR's research creates economic growth and jobs for Singapore, and enhances lives by improving societal outcomes in healthcare, urban living, and sustainability.

A*STAR is recognized by many accountancy organizations: ISCA, ACCA, CPA Australia, and ICAEW. 

Finance Partner is to work alongside A*STAR Research Entities (ARES) to provide financial services/advice within a Shared Services operating environment.

JOB DESCRIPTION

General

• Oversee all financial aspects of the research entities (RIs) that is/are assigned.
• Responsible for client facing and addressing queries by the RIs.
• Ensure internal controls and financial procedures are in compliance with A*STAR Financial Policy and Procedures (FPP).
• Liaise with RIs in providing financial insights/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 meeting.
• 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/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.
• Open to Singaporeans and Singapore Permanent Residents (PRs)