Manager, Finance and Administration

İş Təsviri

ADA University

This multifaceted role combines key functions across accounting, finance, payroll, procurement, and contract management to support the financial integrity and operational efficiency of ADA Primary School. The Manager ensures accurate financial processing, compliant procurement, and strategic vendor engagement, while maintaining alignment with Azerbaijani legislation and ADA University’s internal policies. The role serves as the backbone of financial operations at the school, supporting both strategic initiatives and day-to-day administrative needs in a dynamic, fast-paced educational environment.

Duties and Responsibilities

Finance & Accounting:

Oversee day-to-day financial operations, including accounts payable, accounts receivable, payment processing, collections, and account reconciliation;
Independently manage monthly payroll and related tax and social contributions in full compliance with Azerbaijani labor and tax legislation;
Maintain and regularly update financial data in the ERP system (e.g., Banner) ensuring data accuracy and system integrity;
Prepare and submit statutory tax, social insurance, and financial reports through official portals (e.g., e-gov.az), ensuring timely compliance with all regulations;
Support cash flow management, forecasting, and internal financial reporting.
Procurement & Contracts:

Lead procurement planning, execution and reporting in coordination with relevant departments and stakeholders;
Administer public procurement and e-tender processes in compliance with Azerbaijani public procurement law;
Development of procurement related standards and operating procedures to establish this new independent function at the ADA Primary School;
Draft and manage purchase orders, contracts, and tender documentation; develop clear and comprehensive Terms of Reference (“Şərtlər toplusu”);
Manage e-procurement processes through platforms such as e-tender.gov.az as required;
Prepare the organization to transition from public procurement to private-sector procurement practices once it becomes a commercial entity;
Vendor & Stakeholder Coordination:

Build and manage strong working relationships with vendors, contractors, service providers, and government institutions to ensure timely and high-quality delivery of goods and services;
Negotiate vendor agreements and ensure clarity on service levels, compliance expectations, and future scalability as the school transitions into an independent structure;
Act as the primary liaison with internal teams (academic, HR, leadership) and external partners (e.g., suppliers, auditors, regulators) to ensure consistent communication, alignment, and responsiveness;
Support the development of independent operational procedures and vendor management systems, anticipating the school’s future as a standalone organization separate from ADA University;
Ensure contracts and partnerships reflect the school’s evolving legal and operational framework, and advise on potential risks or transitional requirements during the separation process.
Compliance & Reporting:

Ensure compliance with national tax laws, accounting standards (e.g., IFRS, IPSAS), and internal procedures;
Facilitate internal and external audits by preparing and providing all necessary documents, explanations, and system access;
Organize digital and physical archiving of financial and contractual documentation according to audit-ready standards.
Administrative Support:

Handle scheduling, communication, document preparation, and reporting to ensure smooth day-to-day operations;
Monitor key deadlines for financial reporting, procurement cycles, and contract renewals.
Qualifications

Bachelor’s degree in Finance, Accounting, Business Administration, or a related field is required. Master’s degree or professional certifications (e.g., ACCA, CPA) are strong assets;
Minimum 3–5 years of progressive experience in accounting, payroll, tax reporting, or procurement roles;
Prior hands-on experience in public procurement is highly desirable, especially in organizations subject to national procurement regulations;
Experience in setting up or refining internal financial procedures and systems is an advantage;
Proficiency in ERP systems (preferably Banner), e-tender.gov.az, e-gov.az, and e-banking systems.
Strong command of Microsoft Office, especially Excel (advanced level), Word, Outlook, and PowerPoint.
Languages: Fluency in Azerbaijani and English; working knowledge of Russian is a plus.
Solid understanding of local tax and procurement regulations.
Knowledge of IFRS, IPSAS, or GAAP preferred.
Strong organizational and analytical skills; ability to handle multiple tasks under tight deadlines.
High level of discretion, integrity, and professionalism when working with confidential data.
Effective communication and stakeholder management abilities.
Ability to meet tight deadlines.
Financial savviness and understanding of organizational goals.
Please follow the link in the Apply for job button to apply for this position. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted for further recruitment process.