Our client
Lions Eye Institute (LEI) is a medical research institute based at a major medical precinct. It provides specialist clinical care and conducts leading research, operating a private day hospital, research laboratories, regional outreach services and specialist clinical units. LEI works closely with universities and research partners to translate research outcomes into clinical and commercial applications.
The organisation is currently oriented towards growth, with an infrastructure plan underway to support both patient care and research activities. This includes the redevelopment of the main theatre complex and associated consulting suites, a significant milestone that will position LEI to deliver even more cutting edge services to the community.
This is an opportunity to join the executive team as Chief Financial Officer, reporting to the Managing Director and working closely with the Board. The role provides expert financial advice on the financial operations and performance of Lions Eye Institute, including clear and concise financial reporting and contributions to financial decision-making to support long-term sustainability.
Key responsibilities include:
- Provide strategic financial leadership across the organisation, partnering with the Board, Managing Director and executive team
- Lead financial and investment strategy, including capital expenditure planning and budgeting
- Deliver monthly and annual financial reporting, including cash flow projections and business performance analysisis
- Partner with operational and research units to provide financial insight that supports informed decision making
- Oversee the modernisation and maintenance of finance systems, commercial processes and reporting frameworks
- Build and lead a high performing finance team
- Lead procurement and commercial activities in line with best practice standards
- Support the planning and execution of capital campaigns, including financial modelling and reporting to funders and stakeholders
- Provide financial input into intellectual property and commercialisation opportunities arising from research activities
About you
You bring strong strategic thinking and sound people leadership. You can influence and drive outcomes through others, and you bring a commercial mindset and a collaborative approach to teamwork. LEI values cultural alignment alongside technical expertise.
To be successful in this role, you will hold a Bachelor's degree in Commerce or an equivalent qualification, together with a professional accounting certification (CA or CPA). You will bring executive-level financial leadership experience in an organisation with an annual turnover of at least $25 million, proven Board-level engagement and sound knowledge of finance, accounting, taxation, budgeting and cost control principles.
Experience in building and leading high performing teams, implementing strategic initiatives and managing stakeholder relationships will support your success in this role. Experience supporting capital campaigns, and an interest in or exposure to intellectual property commercialisation, will be highly regarded.
Experience working in a healthcare or clinical service delivery environment would be highly regarded.
For more information about this opportunity, a detailed Client Prospectus is available by emailing prospectus@lesterblades.com.au. After reviewing the Prospectus, you can make further confidential telephone enquiries to Lester Blades’ Partner, Tina Jackson at +61 8 9221 0744.
Applications may be made in Word format to applications@lesterblades.com.au quoting Reference LB303433. Please include a cover letter with your application outlining why you believe you have the skills, experience and achievements for this key position. We prefer to receive applications by COB Thursday, 30 July 2026.
Candidates’ rights under the Privacy Act will be observed at all times.
Only candidates with valid work rights in Australia can be considered.
ABOUT LESTER BLADES
Lester Blades is a Western Australian owned executive search and board advisory firm with local specialisation and international reach. We focus on uncompromising excellence in service to clients in the identification of Non-Executive Directors, CEOs and a range of other senior executive and functional leadership roles.
