Finance and Operations Manager

About Connect Laois

Connect Laois is the designated Local Development Company for County Laois and operates as a registered charity supported by State and EU funds. The organisation implements diverse initiatives aimed at supporting individuals, communities, and businesses throughout the county, with a mission to enhance community wellbeing, reduce disadvantage and social exclusion, and foster enterprise growth.

Role Overview

The Finance and Operations Manager will serve full-time from the Portlaoise office, overseeing financial management and daily operational functions across Connect Laois’s programmes and services. Key duties involve budget preparation, financial reporting, monitoring expenditures to align with funding terms, and ensuring compliance with governing regulations and grant conditions. The Manager will also supervise operational workflows, enhance processes, assist programme delivery teams, and liaise with internal and external stakeholders to maintain high-quality and efficient service delivery.

Additional contributions include participating in strategic planning, aiding human resources and resource allocation, and providing clear, data-supported reports as a member of the senior management team.

Qualifications and Experience

• Demonstrated expertise in financial management encompassing budgeting, forecasting, and financial reporting, particularly managing funds from multiple sources or public grants.
• Experience in operations management involving process optimization, resource coordination, and cross-functional team collaboration within service or nonprofit settings.
• Understanding of governance, compliance, and regulatory frameworks pertinent to charities and community organisations, with strict attention to detail and risk management.
• Advanced skills in spreadsheet and accounting software, coupled with the ability to analyze data and generate management reports supporting informed decision-making.
• Strong interpersonal skills enabling effective communication, collaboration, and engagement with staff, funders, partners, and community stakeholders.
• Excellent organisational and time-management capabilities to handle multiple responsibilities, meet tight deadlines, and adapt to changing programme demands.
• A relevant tertiary education in finance, accounting, business, or a related discipline, along with professional certification in accounting or financial management.
• Prior experience in community development, social inclusion, or rural development sectors and familiarity with programmes like LEADER or SICAP is a distinct advantage.