About the job

Company OverviewOur client is a leading education institute which serves as a premier hub for computer science and digital engineering. The institute is defined by its commitment to solving complex societal challenges through responsible, forward-looking engineering solutions. It offers a unique, curriculum that bridges the gap between theoretical knowledge and real-world application, positioning itself as a cornerstone of high-level research and innovation in the digital landscape. By merging academic excellence with practice-oriented teaching, the organization fosters an interdisciplinary environment where researchers collaborate in an international, dynamic working environment.

Title: Head of FinanceLocation: Potsdam, Brandenberg, GermanyReports to: Chief Financial Officer

The PositionOur client is seeking a Head of Finance to assume overall responsibility for the finance function of non-profit faculty and actively shape it during an ambitious growth and transformation phase. Together with team leads, the Head of Finance will lead and further develop the areas of accounting, third-party funding controlling, central controlling, and procurement. In doing so, you will combine excellence in finance and accounting with a modern, service-oriented understanding of finance, guiding its entities through a period of growth and market expansion.

As a strategic sparring partner to the executive management, professors, and senior administrative colleagues, you will create financial transparency, enable well-informed decision-making, and ensure the sustainable development of the institute.

• DutiesStrategic Management and GovernanceOverall responsibility for finance and accounting, controlling, third-party funding administration and procurement.
• Responsibility for monthly and annual financial statements in accordance with the German Commercial Code (HGB)
• Responsibility for economic, multi-year, and investment planning as well as forecasts
• Preparation and content support of board meetings with the shareholder
• Responsibility for management reports, KPIs, and financial analyses
• Advisory & Interface FunctionsAdvising executive management, professors, and program managers on financial, tax, and non-profit law matters
• Central point of contact for auditors, tax advisors, and financial authorities
• Leadership & Team DevelopmentProfessional and disciplinary leadership and further development of a high-performing finance team
• Promotion of a cooperative, appreciative, and customer-oriented collaboration culture
• Active coaching of team leads to further develop structures, roles, and competencies
• Transformation & DevelopmentFurther development of financial processes, policies, and governance structures in a growing environment
• Active promotion of digitalization and automation, including the use of AI applications
• Building a future-proof, scalable finance function with clear standards and efficient processes

• QualificationsUniversity degree in accounting, finance or related field (master’s preferred).
• 8+ years of finance / controlling experience.
• Several years proven experience in a senior leadership role.
• Clear, reliable, and appreciative leadership style with strong communication and assertiveness skills.
• Experience with annual financial statements under HGB.
• Strong knowledge of commercial, tax, or non-profit law.
• Experience with modern finance and ERP systems, particularly S/4HANA and AI-based tools.
• Strategic mindset combined with a hands-on mentality and strong advisory capabilities.
• Excellent command of German and English language skills.

·        Financial Accounting & Reporting: Financial Accounting • General Ledger • Account Finalisation • Journal Entries & Provisional JVs • Financial Statement Preparation • P&L Reporting • Cash Flow Analysis • Project Accounting • Project Costing & Cost Sheets • Project Profitability Analysis • MIS / Management Reporting • Group Accounts Consolidation Support

·        Accounts Receivable & Payable: Accounts Receivable • Accounts Payable • Debtors & Creditors Management • Receivables Ageing • Outstanding Receivables Follow-up • Customer Balance Confirmation • Supplier Accounting • Supplier Reconciliation • Subcontractor Accounting • Subcontractor AP Ageing • Intercompany Reconciliation

·        Reconciliation & Controls: Bank Reconciliation • Customer / Receivables Reconciliation • Supplier Account Reconciliation • Subcontractor Account Reconciliation • Journal & Voucher Verification • Accounting Controls • Internal & External Audit Coordination • Accounting Documentation

·        Payroll: Payroll Processing • Wage Protection System (WPS)

·        Systems: TallyPrime / Tally ERP 9 • Microsoft Excel • MS Office