About you
Essential
Significant senior finance experience in the not-for-profit sector: charity, social care, social housing or local authority
Strong technical accounting knowledge, including statutory reporting, audit and tax
A proven track record of leading, developing and improving the performance of finance teams
Demonstrable experience of reviewing and improving financial systems, processes and controls
Strong financial planning, budgeting, forecasting and cash flow management experience
The confidence to challenge practices, investigate discrepancies and assess financial risk
Excellent communication skills, able to build credibility with trustees, senior leaders and non-finance colleagues
Integrity, resilience and a genuine commitment to the organisation's purpose
Desirable
- Charity-specific technical knowledge, including the Charities SORP, fund accounting and Gift Aid
- Experience of income from grants, contracts, donations and fundraising
What's on offer
- £80,000 per annum
- Hybrid working, with 3 days a week from home
- The chance to shape a finance function and leave a lasting legacy in a purpose-driven organisation
The opportunity
A well-established charity is looking for a Head of Finance to join on a 12-month fixed term contract, providing financial leadership and stability while it plans the future of its finance function.
There is the possibility of the role becoming permanent for the right person.
Leading and developing the team
- Assess the capability of the finance team, identify skills gaps and put a structured development plan in place
- Set clear expectations, address performance and build a culture of ownership, accountability and continuous improvement
- Develop a responsive, approachable team that the wider organisation sees as a trusted partner
Technical accounting and compliance
- Provide expert oversight of statutory accounts, external audit, VAT and other tax obligations
- Make sure restricted and unrestricted funds are properly recorded, allocated and used in line with funder requirements
- Ensure strong financial governance and compliance with regulatory and trustee requirements
- Carry out detailed financial reviews, investigate anomalies and close gaps in financial controls
Systems and processes
- Review and improve financial systems, removing manual workarounds, duplication and inefficiency
- Strengthen procedures for budgeting, purchasing, expenses, income processing and authorisation
- Use automation and technology to improve accuracy, speed and transparency
Financial planning and sustainability
- Lead budgeting, forecasting, cash flow management and financial modelling
- Monitor reserves and long-term financial sustainability
- Support funding bids, grant applications and reporting to funders
- Provide clear financial insight and constructive challenge to budget holders, so resources are used where they make the greatest impact
Stakeholder leadership
- Work closely with the CFO, executive team and trustees, translating complex financial information into clear, accessible insight
- Develop and deliver a clear vision and improvement plan for the finance function