Financial Operations Specialist

Gateway is seeking a detail-oriented and proactive Financial Operations Specialist to join our growing team of professionals committed to next generation international higher education. Reporting directly to Gateway’s Director of Operations, the Specialist will have a foundation in financial operations and accounting principles, with a focus on maintaining accurate financial records, ensuring compliance, and supporting financial analysis and reporting. Specific duties include:

− Financial Record Maintenance. The Specialist will maintain Gateway’s financial records in compliance with policies and accounting standards, overseeing accounts payable, accounts receivable, general ledger entries, and expense reimbursements.
− Transaction Processing. The Specialist will handle payroll processing in collaboration with JustWorks, ensuring accurate and timely payments while adhering to payroll policies and regulations. The Specialist will also manage accounts receivable functions, including invoicing, receipt allocation, and collections management. Additionally, the role encompasses managing accounts payable activities such as vendor payments, expense reimbursements, and reconciliation of vendor statements.
− Financial Reporting & Analysis. The Specialist will assist in the preparation of financial reports such as balance sheets, income statements, and cash flow statements. The Specialist will contribute to financial analysis efforts by gathering, analyzing, and interpreting financial data to provide insights and recommendations to Gateway’s Managing Director.
− Compliance and Auditing. Ensuring compliance with financial regulations and company policies is critical. The Specialist will assist in audit preparations and promptly respond to audit inquiries, maintaining accurate records and documentation.
− Operational Support. The Specialist will provide operational support related to financial transactions, expense management, and procurement processes. They will identify opportunities for process improvements and efficiencies within financial operations, contributing to the overall operational effectiveness of the organization.

QUALIFICATIONS

The Specialist must be a highly motivated, organized, detail-oriented and conscientious self-starter with excellent communication skills. The individual must have the ability to function effectively under pressure, be capable of making decisions and responding to challenges quickly and with ease. The position requires someone with the ability to exercise judgment, tact, and diplomacy in handling client relations and business development.

Required qualifications include:

- Bachelor’s degree in accounting, finance, or a related field.
- Demonstrated experience in a financial operations, accounting, or similar role, preferably in an educational institution or organizational setting.
- Solid understanding of accounting principles and financial reporting standards, along with experience in payroll processing, accounts receivable, and accounts payable functions.
- Proficiency in accounting and billing software (e.g., Xero, Bill.Com, etc.) and advanced MS Excel skills. - Excellent organizational skills, attention to detail, and strong analytical and problemsolving abilities. - Effective communication skills, both verbal and written, for collaborating within a dynamic, fast-paced environment.

Preferred qualifications include:

− Demonstrated commitment to a career focused on international higher education.
− Knowledge of other languages and previous international experience.
− Cultural sensitivity and an appreciation of people and cultures from around the world.
− Additional certifications (e.g., CPA, CMA, etc.).