Financial Controller (m/f/d)

ZOE Institute for Future-Fit Economies is an independent think & do tank active at the EU level and in Germany. At the interface of politics, research, and civil society, we are dedicated to policy-oriented research for a future-fit economy that enables people to live well within planetary boundaries. We are a small team that values an appreciative atmosphere and good communication. We offer:

• A collaborative, motivating working environment in a small think & do tank that has made it to the top of EU politics in a short space of time
• A strategic, agile, value and purpose-oriented working style
• Flexibility of working time and place, supporting a healthy work-life-balance
• Ways of working to build our organisation together and align individual and organisational purpose
• Co-working spaces in Berlin, Cologne and Brussels

Tasks

As part of our motivated and impact-driven team, you will:

• Lead on finances: Oversee cost tracking, payroll, and accounting (with support from internal and external advisors). Lead financial reporting and lead year-end closing and help with budgeting.
• Shape operations : Improve processes and manage contracts.
• Ensure compliance: Support with employment matters and organisational requirements.
• Support the team: Coordinate across teams, mentor colleagues, and help people grow.

The specific set of priority tasks and responsibilities will be decided together based on the list above and the selected candidate's specific background and skills.

Requirements

We are looking for people that share our core principles: value orientation, sustainability, agility, selforganisation. Your profile would include the following skills, background, and knowledge:

Core Experience

• Background in finance, business management, or equivalent experience
• 5+ years in finance/operations and in leading projects or teams
• Knowledge of German HRB and IFRS
• Experience with contracts, procurement, or tender processes, especially Horizon Europe or knowledge on other EU funding and financial reporting
• Experience in non-profit organisations is an advantage

Core Skills & Competencies

• Clear in defining roles and structuring collaborative processes
• Strong leadership and team coordination skills
• Analytical, detail-oriented, and able to manage complexity
• Proactive and solution-oriented with good organisational skills
• Fluent in English (German a plus)

In addition, some of the following competencies fit well into our team, but are not a requirement: experience with data visualisation, contacts within European policy networks, content experience in one of the following areas: fiscal policy, universal basic services, beyond GDP, industrial policy, economic governance; experience in the acquisition of third-party funds.

Other Requirement s

Applicants need to be based in Germany, Austria, or Belgium. The position will require travel within Germany and/or Belgium on occasion.

Benefits

Conditions

The weekly workload is 38 hours which can be arranged flexibly. The position can start as soon as possible, but at the latest by the 1st November. Applicants need to be based in Germany, Austria or Belgium. Our offices are available in Cologne, Berlin or Brussels, however we support a hybrid work environment. The gross wage will be 4,100 - 5,300 per month, depending on the competences and experience.

The contract will be for one year initially; however, the position is intended to contribute to the long-term development of the organisation. For this reason, we aim for a longer-term fit.

Diversity

We believe that our society's behaviour disproportionately hurts the most marginalised people including people of colour, people from working class backgrounds, people with disabilities, women and LGBTIQ people. We are committed to challenge this through our work for socially just development and by creating a diverse workplace at our organisation. Hence, we strongly encourage applications from people who are members of marginalised communities.

We are continuously accepting applications. Please send your CV (max 3 pages) and a motivation letter (400-500 words). Please do not attach a photo to your application.

If we consider your application to be suitable, we will get back to you as soon as possible with dates for an online interview. In case of any questions please don't hesitate to reach out.

Thank you very much for your interest in ZOE Institute.