Evangeline Wachira

Accomplished senior executive with over 18 years of progressive leadership in finance, shared services, institutional operations, and strategic transformation within large-scale educational institutions. Proven record of delivering organizational efficiency, service optimization, and technology-led transformation in high-performance environments. Skilled in leading diverse teams, strengthening compliance frameworks, implementing enterprise systems, and driving operational excellence aligned to institutional mission, vision, and values.

Recognized for embedding a culture of continuous improvement, data-driven decision-making, and service excellence. Deep expertise in risk management, corporate governance, cross-functional coordination, and stakeholder engagement, ensuring seamless alignment between operational functions and academic outcomes.

Finance Manager - Aga Khan Academy, Mombasa - Mombasa, Kenya

(2020-03)

Oversee financial operations, budgeting, procurement compliance, treasury and grant management. Lead shared services collaboration across HR, Admissions, IT, Security, Food service, Residential unit, Transport, Facility, Academic and other Operation areas. Ensure regulatory compliance, audit readiness, financial governance, and robust reporting standards.

Drive automation, digital payment transformation, ERP optimization, and data-driven KPIs. Strengthening internal controls, minimizing operational risks, and align institutional resources with strategic goals. Build a culture of continuous improvement, customer service, cross-functional coordination, and accountability.

Currently reviewing and developing finance policies for Kenya schools.

• Successfully implemented Microsoft Dynamics 365 and enhanced Navision reports and automations
• Reduced vendor payment cycle through streamlined workflows and automation
• Introduced and operationalized M-Pesa payment platform with full audit trails
• Enhanced tax compliance through detailed staff benefits tax reviews and KRA audit management
• Improved debt management by developing parent engagement frameworks and repayment restructuring models

Finance Manager - Rusinga Schools – British Curriculum - Kenya

(2018-01 - 2020-01)

• Led budgeting, forecasting, accounts payable/receivable, statutory compliance, and payroll
• Implemented internal control frameworks, strengthening operational transparency
• Coordinated external audits, regulatory engagements, and financial reporting cycles
• Provided strategic recommendations on financial health, market dynamics, and institutional risks
• Migrated institution records to eCitizen platform improving compliance
• Introduced structured stores oversight and championed ERP readiness for inventory management
• Resolved outstanding KRA assessment cases ensuring compliance and risk mitigation

Senior Financial Accountant - Riara Group of Schools / Riara University - Kenya

(2011-01 - 2017-12)

• Oversaw cash flow forecasting, treasury operations, bank relations, and FX management
• Led admissions billing, fee management, and student account reconciliation
• Sustained 95%+ debt collection rate for 4,000 students through structured processes
• Participated in the design and deployment of the student management system both for schools and the university
• Student trips costing

Treasury Accountant - Riara Group of Schools / Riara University - Kenya

(2008-01 - 2011-12)

Control Assistant Accountant / Payroll Assistant - G4S Security Services - Kenya

(2006-01 - 2008-12)

• Prepared management accounts, reconciled payroll, and conducted general ledger analysis
• Supported taxation reporting, branch budgeting, and end-of-year audit preparation

MBA - Finance - University of Nairobi (2011-01 - 2013-12)

Bachelor of Commerce - Finance - Catholic University of Eastern Africa (2006-01 - 2008-12)