Marcus Oldham is a leading Australian agricultural college, specialising in undergraduate and postgraduate qualifications in Business, with a targeted focus on Australian agriculture and agribusiness.
The College strongly values the contribution of professionals who bring extensive commercial and industry experience, sound business judgement and a collaborative approach to their work. As a specialist higher education institution, we offer a unique working environment where staff have the opportunity to make a meaningful contribution to the College’s operations, strategic direction and long-term sustainability.
THE ROLE:
We are seeking a Chief Financial Officer (CFO) to join our management team, based onsite at our Geelong (Waurn Ponds) Campus.
Reporting directly to the Principal, this senior position is responsible for the financial and business management of the College, including financial planning, reporting, governance, compliance and risk management.
Working within a small and collaborative team, the successful applicant will have the opportunity to contribute to a broad range of College activities, including business improvement, infrastructure and development projects, while leading the day-to-day finance function.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:
- Lead the College’s financial planning and management activities, including annual budgets, forecasting, cash flow management and financial reporting.
- Provide clear, practical financial analysis and advice to the Principal, Council and relevant committees to support strategic and operational decision-making.
- Oversee financial operations, including accounting, payroll financial assurance, student fees, accounts payable and receivable, and financial systems.
- Manage financial and corporate governance, internal controls, auditing, regulatory compliance and financial and commercial risk and statutory reporting.
- Provide financial and commercial oversight of College projects, infrastructure developments, property matters and business improvement initiatives.
- Identify opportunities to improve financial systems, reporting practices and operational efficiencies.
- Lead and support the Finance Officer and work collaboratively with managers across the College to promote sound financial management and accountability.
QUALIFICATIONS, SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE
- A degree in Accounting, Finance, Commerce or a related discipline, together with CPA, CA or an equivalent recognised professional accounting qualification.
- Demonstrated experience in a senior financial management role, including responsibility for budgets, forecasting, financial reporting and financial operations.
- Strong understanding of financial governance, risk management, accounting standards, audit processes and relevant Australian regulatory and taxation obligations.
- High standards of professional integrity, confidentiality, accountability and sound judgement.
- Demonstrated ability to work collaboratively in a small team environment, manage competing priorities and contribute positively to broader organisational objectives.
- Experience in corporate governance, company secretarial responsibilities, or the not-for-profit or education sectors will be highly regarded.
BENEFITS
- Opportunity to work with a passionate and committed team of professionals and educators in a unique higher education environment.
- A senior management position with direct involvement in the strategic and operational direction of the College.
- A broad and varied role with the opportunity to contribute to business improvement, development projects and the long-term sustainability of the organisation.
- A collaborative working environment where professional expertise, initiative and practical solutions are valued.
- Salary Packaging, Employee Assistance Program and Daily Lunch are provided.
- An attractive remuneration package and other benefits will be negotiated to reflect the successful candidate’s skills and experience.
HOW TO APPLY
- Please send your CV and cover letter addressing the key selection criteria in the position description, including an overview of why you believe you have the necessary skills and experience to undertake this role, to recruitment@marcusoldham.vic.edu.au.
- Please note, applicants must have full rights to work in Australia; sponsorship is not available for this role.
- Closing Date: 22nd November 2026
Important Information for Applicants: Marcus Oldham College is committed to providing a safe, respectful and inclusive learning and working environment. In accordance with our obligations under the National Higher Education Code to Prevent and Respond to Gender-based Violence, successful applicants will be required to complete pre-employment declarations relating to fitness for work, criminal history and any previous or current investigations or findings relating to gender-based violence. Employment will also be subject to satisfactory pre-employment screening, including a National Police Check and, where applicable, a Working with Children Check.
