Financial Controller

An exciting opportunity has arisen for a Financial Controller to join the senior management team at Fota Wildlife Park.

Fota Wildlife Park is one of Ireland’s most iconic visitor attractions and conservation organisations, welcoming hundreds of thousands of visitors each year while championing wildlife conservation, education, and sustainability.

We are now seeking an exceptional Financial Controller to join its Senior Management Team on a fulltime permanent contract. Reporting to the Park Director, the Financial Controller will lead all financial, accounting, compliance, and governance functions, and provide expert financial advice to Senior Management, the Board of Governors, and Board Sub-Committees.

 Key Responsibilities

• Lead external and internal audit processes.
• Responsible for building the operational and capital budget for Management, Committee, and Board review. 
• Prepare timely management accounts and financial reports for Senior Management, the Finance, Audit & Risk (FAR) Committee and Board.
• Provide day-to-day internal financial analysis support to all departments.
• Oversee procurement, third-party contracts, payroll, pensions, and financial risk management.
• Manage government grants, donations, sponsorship income, and compliance with funding conditions.
• Ensure compliance with Revenue Commissioners, Companies Registration Office, and Charities Regulator.
• Provide advice internally in administrative areas such as insurance and legal.
• Act as site point of contact for IT.
• Lead and develop the Finance team.

About You

• Professionally qualified accountant (ACA, ACCA, CPA or CIMA).
• Minimum 7 years’ financial management experience, including leadership roles.
• Strong analytical, communication, and stakeholder management skills.
• Good understanding of an internal network infrastructure and ERP systems proficiency.
• Experience in the charity or not-for-profit sector is desirable.

Why Join Us?

• Senior leadership role with strategic influence.
• Unique working environment in a values-driven organisation.
• Competitive salary and benefits.
• Commitment to ongoing professional development.