Director, Finance & Operations

About ISDM

The Indian School of Development Management pioneers a transformative approach to management, envisioning a world that is just, equitable, and sustainable. Established in 2016, it serves as a foundational hub for cultivating a robust ecosystem and a cadre of skilled professionals dedicated to advancing social change globally.

Driven by the conviction that the social sector plays a pivotal role in addressing humanitys most pressing challenges, the school operates on the premise that effective management is essential for achieving significant impact. By nurturing talent in Development Management tailored to the unique needs of the social sector, the school aims to catalyze sustainable socio-economic and ecological progress on a large scale.

Recognizing the power of institutions to shape professional ecosystems, the school aims to establish itself as a beacon of excellence in higher education. Through this, it seeks to lay the groundwork for a thriving community of practitioners dedicated to driving positive change in society.

Over the past seven years, the Indian School of Development Management (ISDM) has garnered validation, support, and funding from esteemed individuals and organizations. While numerous programs worldwide aim to cultivate management capabilities for the social sector, they often reside within larger university ecosystems or business schools, where they may receive lesser attention compared to mainstream programs. ISDM stands out as the sole institution globally dedicated to fostering a comprehensive ecosystem for Development Management, focusing on pioneering work in critical areas.

ISDMs initiatives encompass:

• Knowledge Creation: Establishing a Global Knowledge Hub to create, disseminate, and institutionalize contextual knowledge on building, leading, and managing social purpose organizations, networks, and platforms.
• Talent Nurturing: Offering the Post Graduate Program in Development Management (PGP-DM) to attract and develop top-tier talent capable of addressing management challenges within the sector.
• Capacity Building: Providing Strategic Capacity Building programs to enhance individual and institutional capacities in development management, thereby fostering sustainable and scalable social impact.

ISDM has successfully completed its Proof of Concept Phase and is now set for expansion over the next five years. Key achievements include high placement rates for PGP-DM graduates and plans for increased batch sizes, a new campus, international partnerships, and accreditation. The institute is also conducting research and establishing Centres of Excellence in various areas of social impact. Additionally, it offers programs for professionals and resources for grassroots organizations. Know more at www.isdm.org.in.

ISDM invites individuals who share its vision to join in creating a dynamic, catalytic ecosystem and positioning India as a thought leader in Development Management, ultimately enabling sustainable social impact at scale.

Job Description

The Director of Finance and Operations is responsible for managing the financial, digital and administrative functions of the organization. This role ensures compliance with financial regulations, including the Foreign Contribution Regulation Act (FCRA), and supports the organization s mission through effective financial planning, management, and administrative oversight.

As a member of the Leadership Team (Panchayat), the position will provide leadership to the Finance function and also assume a strategic role in the overall financial management of the organization. The position will be responsible for developing the organizations financial strategy, stewardship of financial assets cum resources and ensuring that the financial and operational assets are properly deployed. In addition to this the person will be responsible for the overall digital strategy of the organisation.

Key Responsibilities

Financial Management:

• Develop and implement financial strategies, policies, and procedures to support the organization s objectives.
• Prepare, manage, and monitor the annual budget and financial forecasts.
• Oversee the preparation of accurate and timely financial statements, including balance sheets, income statements, and cash flow statements.
• Ensure compliance with financial regulations, including FCRA, tax laws, and donor requirements.
• Manage and oversee the financial reporting process, including reports for donors, management, and the board of directors.
• Conduct financial analysis to support decision-making and strategic planning.

Compliance and Risk Management:

• Ensure compliance with FCRA regulations, including timely submission of returns and reports.
• Develop and maintain strong internal controls to safeguard the organization s assets.
• Coordinate and support external audits and implement audit recommendations.
• Identify and manage financial risks, including those related to foreign exchange, credit, and liquidity.

Fund Management:

• Manage donor funds, ensuring they are used effectively and reported accurately.
• Prepare financial reports for donors, ensuring adherence to donor requirements and timelines.
• Monitor and manage cash flow to ensure the organization s financial stability.

Administrative Management:

• Oversee the day-to-day administrative operations of the organization.
• Develop and implement administrative policies and procedures.
• Ensure the efficient management of office space, equipment, and supplies.
• Oversee facility management, ensuring a safe and secure working environment.
• Coordinate the organization of events, meetings, and conferences.
• Manage relationships with vendors and service providers, including negotiating and overseeing contracts and agreements.

Digital and Systems Management:

• Oversee the organization s IT infrastructure, including hardware, software, networks, and systems.
• Ensure the reliability, security, and efficiency of IT systems.
• Provide oversight to staff, addressing IT-related issues and concerns.
• Provide oversight to implementation of data management policies and procedures, ensuring data security and integrity.

Qualifications and Experience:

• Bachelor s degree in Finance, Accounting, Business Administration, or a related field; Master s degree preferred.
• Professional accounting qualification (e.g., CPA, CA, ACCA) is desirable.
• Minimum of 20 years of experience in financial management and administration, preferably in the NGO sector.
• Strong knowledge of FCRA regulations and compliance requirements.
• Familiarity with the working environment and professional standards of large high grade nonprofit organizations
• Experience in budgeting, financial planning, and analysis.
• Proven track record of managing donor funds and preparing financial reports for donors.
• Strong understanding of internal controls and risk management.
• Understanding and working knowledge of accounting software and MS Office, especially Excel.
• Excellent organizational, analytical, and problem-solving skills.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.

Personal Attributes:

• High level of integrity and ethical standards.
• Detail-oriented and committed to accuracy.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Strong leadership and management skills.
• Adaptable and able to manage multiple priorities.

Remuneration for this role will be commensurate with qualifications experience. To learn more about us and apply, check out isdm.org.in/careers.

ISDM is an equal opportunity organization with a particular emphasis on affirmative action. The culture of the organization is one of professionalism while also one that greatly values relationships.