Director of Finance

Director of FinanceLocation: The Metropolitan School of PanamaThe Director of Finance is a strategic member of the School Leadership Team responsible for leading all financial management functions of the school. The position ensures that the school's financial resources, controls, systems, reporting processes, and compliance framework support the educational mission and strategic objectives of The Metropolitan School and Nord Anglia Education. This role provides leadership in financial planning, budgeting, forecasting, reporting, treasury management, payroll oversight, procurement governance, internal controls, audit coordination, compliance, and financial systems management while ensuring alignment with Nord Anglia Education policies, standards, and best practices.The Director of Finance serves as the primary financial advisor to the Head of School and collaborates closely with Regional Finance and Group Finance teams to drive operational efficiency, financial sustainability, strategic growth, and continuous improvement.Reporting To: Head of SchoolDotted Line Reporting: LATAM Finance DirectorDirect Reports: Finance Team Accounts Payable Function Accounts Receivable & Student Billing Function Payroll FunctionOther Key Relationships: Group Finance Regional Finance Teams School Leadership Team (SLT) Human Resources Department Admissions and Marketing Team Academic Leadership Team Parents and External Service Providers Banks, Auditors, Tax Authorities, and Regulatory BodieKnowledge, Skills and Experience:Reporting and AuditFinancial Planning and ControlsTreasury and Cash Flow ManagementAccounts Receivable and Revenue ManagementProcurement and Contract ManagementStakeholder ManagementLeadership and CollaborationPayroll and ComplianceFinancial Systems and Process ImprovementQualifications:Education: Bachelor's Degree in Accounting, Finance, Business Administration, Economics, or related field. CPA, ACCA, ACA, CIMA, MBA, or equivalent professional qualification preferred.Experience: Minimum of 7 years of progressive financial leadership experience. Experience leading finance teams in complex organizations. Experience with budgeting, forecasting, treasury management, payroll oversight, financial reporting, compliance, and audit management. Experience in statutory reporting and IFRS compliance. Experience with process improvement and financial systems implementation. Experience in international organizations or educational institutions preferred.Technical Knowledge: Strong knowledge of financial reporting and accounting standards. Treasury and cash flow management expertise. IFRS and statutory reporting experience. Advanced financial modelling and analytical skills. Advanced Microsoft Excel skills. Experience with OneStream, ERP systems, payroll platforms, and financial reporting tools.Languages: Fluent English and Spanish, written and spoken.Personal Attributes: Collaborate with Empathy, Communicate with Impact, Make Considered Decisions, Embrace Change, Drive Growth, Integrity & Accountability.Safeguarding: The Metropolitan School is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. All employees are expected to share this commitment and comply with all safeguarding policies, procedures, and practices established by Nord Anglia Education and local regulations.