Accounts payable team leader jobs
Using Anonymous Recruitment
This organisation is using Anonymous Recruitment to reduce bias in the first stages of the hiring process. Submit your application as normal and our system will anonymise it for you. Your personal information will be hidden until the recruiter contacts you.
Why Access Social Care Exists
Every day millions of older and disabled people are denied the social care they need. Most local authorities can’t meet the growing demand for care, and none are confident they can meet their legal duties in the future. This affects all of us - we will all need care at some point in our lives.
We all have a right to hold public bodies to account, but most of us cannot afford lawyers so rely on legal aid. The 92% drop in legal aid cases since 2010 means that we have nowhere to turn. Without access to justice, our rights do not exist.
What we do
Access Social Care (‘ASC’) provides legal advice and information for people with social care needs, helping achieve a better quality of life. We work with communities to increase knowledge of the law and our rights. We highlight the gap left by cuts to Legal Aid and provide advice for those who can’t afford it.
Our network of lawyers and caseworkers provide access to justice when things go wrong. We collaborate with social services whilst ensuring legal obligations are met. We are working towards a future where social care is adequately funded, and we all get the support we need.
We provide rights awareness training to front line managers, and legal advice and casework support to families and individuals. As well as providing access to justice, our aim is to drive system level change through evidence-led influencing and strategic casework.
This is an exciting time to join ASC. We have a new strategy. We are dedicated to the people who need our help, and we care deeply about our team. We think that work should be an exciting and satisfying place to be.
About the role
The Finance & IT Operations manager ensures effective financial management and control throughout ASC overseeing financial administration, reporting and compliance.
The role provides guidance and support on financial matters to the Chief Operating Officer (COO) in areas such as cash flow, audit and tax whilst ensuring that budget holders across ASC are well supported with tools and skills. The role also helps develop and implement the charity’s IT strategy, including managing the external IT provider and service level agreement.
Responsibilities
1. Financial Management and Reporting
- Provide the Chief Operating Officer (COO) with accurate, regular and comprehensive financial information reports to guide effective and sound financial decision making.
- Monitor financial activity against approved annual budget, reporting any anomalies or unusual activity to the COO.
- Develop, implement and operate monitoring systems for financial forecasting and re-forecasting to support sound decision making.
- Support the COO in the co-ordination of the annual budgeting and planning process ensuring that information is collected, compiled and reported in a consistent and robust manner.
- Co-ordinate and produce year end Charity SORP financial statements, including the Trustee Annual Report, providing external auditors with the necessary documentation and support to audit the financial statements.
- Ensure compliance with all financial regulations, liaising with the charity’s external auditors in preparing the SORP financial statements.
- Partner with budget holders, providing monthly expenditure against budget reports and supporting their understanding and decision making.
- Preparing financial statements for funder reporting and supporting the COO in designing budgets and financial models for new fundraising bids and other commercial offerings.
- Produce VAT and corporation tax returns and manage ASC’s relationship with HMRC.
- Oversee the payroll process, ensuring accuracy, compliance and timely submission to the outsourced provider.
- Oversee accounts payable and receivable.
- Establish a detailed cashflow planning process and manage the flow of capital between ASC’s and its chosen banks, recommending any changes as appropriate.
- Manage all banking relationships.
2. Policy and Procedures
- Collaborate with the COO to establish effective processes and controls to ensure efficient and effective financial management is delivered and maintained.
- Lead the development, implementation and monitoring of effective procurement policies, procedures and systems ensuring best value is achieved across all activities.
3. IT, Contracts & Data Protection
- Support the COO to review current accounting and finance systems recommending and implementing upgrades and improvements where agreed.
- Support the COO in drafting and implementing ASC’s IT strategy.
- Tender and manage SLA and relationship with external IT provider.
- Review outsourced arrangements and systems and work with the COO on tendering for fit for purpose systems to match organisational strategy and direction.
- Lead on the annual insurance renewal process, ensuring appropriate cover is in place and general administration of the charity’s insurance policies is enacted.
- Manage and review business interruption and disaster recovery plans, using regular simulation testing to ensure robustness.
- Keep existing portfolio of client and supplier template contracts under review, recommending risk-based strengthening.
- Oversee ASC’s data protection infrastructure, co-ordinating departmental Data Protection Champions to ensure that policy & practice is robust
- Work with COO in response to reactive data protection issues and incidents
4. People Management
- Provide line management to the Finance Assistant, using ASC’s management processes to ensure they are supported, motivated and able to work effectively.
- Plan and oversee the Finance Assistant’s workload, ensuring tasks are allocated appropriately and completed to required standards.
- Contribute to creating a collaborative team culture aligned with ASC’s values.
5. Other Responsibilities
- Contribute to the design and implementation of team development work within the Finance & IT Operations Team in collaboration with the Chief Operating Officer and the Business Support Manager.
This list of tasks is not exhaustive and will be reviewed from time to time in discussion with the post holder.
Person Specification
All staff at ASC are expected to share and demonstrate our values:
Trustworthy
Recognised for excellence, we will be the best we can be in everything we do. We will be truthful, independent and outcomes focussed.
Fair
We believe in treating people with kindness and compassion in a way that is right, reasonable and just.
Fearless
We will do what is right, not what is easy. We will bravely challenge injustice.
Inclusive
Our beneficiaries’ voices will influence our thinking and decision making at all levels of our organisation. Collaborative in our thinking, we will work with others to achieve our goals.
Positive
We will be constructive and progressive in our challenge. We will optimistically and dynamically drive for change.
In addition to our values, you will also need to be able to demonstrate or tell us about the following areas at your interview:
Personal attributes you will have
Essential:
- Purpose driven with a commitment to our mission and values
- Commitment to working within the principles of equity, diversity and inclusion
- Self-aware, solutions focused and able to generate goodwill with collaborators and colleagues.
- Demonstrates integrity and an ability to hold and respect confidential and sensitive information.
- Dependable, resilient with the ability to remain composed and effective under pressure.
- Self-motivated, resourceful, and proactive in taking initiative.
Experience you will have
Minimum
- Experience of preparing management accounts, monitoring budgets and producing financial reports for senior leaders.
- Experience of contract and SLA management, including reviewing and monitoring provider performance.
Essential
- Demonstrable experience of financial management within a multi-stakeholder environment, including familiarity with charity accounting and SORP principles.
- Line management experience supporting the performance and development of team members.
- Experience of overseeing IT services or outsourced IT support arrangements.
Desirable
- Experience of managing or coordinating insurance, risk, business continuity and/or disaster recovery processes.
Skills you will have
Essential
- Strong numerical and analytical skills to effectively analyse financial reports
- Strong relationship-building and stakeholder management skills, able to engage effectively with diverse groups and senior professionals.
- Able to manage multiple tasks, prioritise effectively and meet competing internal and external deadlines.
- Able to produce accurate and reliable work.
- Strong written and verbal communications skills, able to convey complex information clearly and accessibly to both financial and non-financial audiences.
- Strong IT skills including demonstrable proficiency in MS Office, Word, Excel, PowerPoint and Sage 50 Accounts.
Knowledge you will have gained
Minimum:
- Working towards qualification in ACA, ACCA, CIMA or experience to this level.
Essential:
- Practical knowledge and understanding of management accounting principles and techniques.
- In-depth knowledge of budgeting and financial forecasting and preparation of financial reports for senior management and compliance purposes.
Desirable:
- An understanding of Data Protection law and practice
How to apply
We hope that having read this far, you will want to apply!
Please ensure that your CV and supporting statement do not include your name – use initials only. This will ensure that we avoid unconscious bias in our shortlisting process. To apply, please provide the following documents:
- An up-to-date CV
- A completed Equality and Diversity Recruitment Monitoring Form – Fill out form (A link to this form can be found in the job pack)
- A supporting statement of no more than two pages, addressing:
- The essential requirements of the person specification
If you want support applying, contact us.
Please ensure you have the right to work in the UK before expressing your interest in this role. We are sorry that we cannot consider applications from candidates who do not have the right to work in the UK.
We only reach out to candidates who have been shortlisted. If you do not receive communication from us within two weeks following the application deadline, please consider that we will not be moving forward with your application.
Timeline for recruitment process
If we receive a high number of applications for this role, we may close the role early. Therefore, we encourage you to apply as soon as you are able.
Closing date: 23:59 on Monday 9th February.
Interviews will take place on Monday 2nd March & Tuesday 3rd March.
Please ensure you keep these dates free.
At Access Social care, we aren’t interested in tokenism. We know that if we are to make the biggest difference for the people that need us the most, we need to get Equality, Diversity and Inclusion and anti-racism right. Part of this is recruiting greater diversity in all our teams.
With this in mind, we particularly welcome applications from candidates with experience of the communities we serve, including people with direct experience of the social care system, and from marginalised groups, particularly Black, Asian and minority ethnic groups, older and disabled people, and trans and non-binary people.
Guaranteed Interview Scheme
For every role we advertise, we outline a set of minimum skills or experience that are key to doing the job well. If you have a disability (this includes long term health conditions or mental health conditions) and you meet these minimum criteria, you can request to be considered under our Guaranteed Interview Scheme.
If you would like to apply through this scheme, please clearly show in your supporting statement how you meet the minimum requirements for the role and indicate in your application email that you wish to be considered under the scheme. If you are applying via Charity Jobs, please ensure that you indicate at the beginning of your supporting statement that you wish to be considered under the scheme.
Being offered an interview through this route does not mean you are guaranteed the job. The selection decision will still be based on who performs best at interview.
If you are invited to interview, we will ask if you need any reasonable adjustments to support you during the process.
Please note: If we receive a high number of applications from candidates who meet the essential criteria and request to be considered under the scheme, we may need to prioritise those whose applications most closely match the role requirements.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
About Finance at Hope into Action
The finance function of Hope into Action is small team comprising the Finance Manager, the Finance Administrators (job-share) and a volunteer reporting to the Head of Operations. It is largely paperless and supports our 44 staff with accounts payable and receivable functions. It works in conjunction with the other departments to deliver timely, accurate and strategic financial information for both the Executive Team and the Board of Trustees.
About the role
The Finance Manager is a key role in enabling Hope into Action fulfil its vision of every church lovingly making a home for those experiencing homelessness.
The role is broad ranging; from managing the Finance Administrators, supporting their work when needed and also producing the monthly management accounts within our target of 10 working days from the month end.
In addition, you will support the year end work by producing the schedules required by auditors, take a lead in the annual budgeting process, produce the biannual investor statements and compile the Gift Aid returns.
You will be expected to meet regularly with budget holders to help them achieve their targets and/or devise a plan to bring them back on track.
About you
We are looking for a self-motivated person with a passion for our work, tenants, staff, churches and mission. You will be adaptable and equally comfortable with bank reconciliations as writing a commentary on the management accounts. We employ people of hope where humility, a genuine desire to love and serve others, and strength of character are as important as any job description. This is reflected in our six core values: strength, hope, action, love, open ears (listening) and mutuality, or “Shalom” as we sometimes call them.
You will have a track record of finance experience but also be relatable; able to support staff with little or no financial experience. You should have a passion for the homeless, churches and our vision & values.
We value diversity and recognise that a diverse team will help us raise our performance in empowering those we serve. We are interested in your individual skills, strengths, knowledge and experience.
About us
We believe that everyone has the right to a home and churches have the power to meet the tragedy of homelessness in their community.
Starting 15 years ago, we have grown into a mature organisation working with over 100 churches running 126 homes for over 400 tenants.
We have won numerous awards both secular and Christian including from the Guardian newspaper, Homeless Link and Centre for Social Justice.
We provide not just shelter and housing know-how, but also the friendship of a church, we are passionate about harnessing the social, financial and spiritual power of churches to enact real change both in them and our tenants.
Our first home had a real heart for men coming out of prison. Homes are now available for a wide range of people experiencing homelessness: people in recovery from addiction, people sleeping rough, women and children fleeing domestic violence, people coming out of rehab, former prostitutes, refugees, those suffering mental health issues and survivors of human trafficking.
Roughly, 50% of our homes are in our ‘line-managed cities’ (Peterborough, Norwich, Nottingham, Cambridge), the other 50% are found across a further 30+ towns which we franchise into.
We encourage others to replicate our model through franchising. The tragedy of homelessness is in every community. Our vision is for every church to lovingly provide the homeless with a home.
Working at Hope into Action can be incredibly rewarding. We offer the opportunity to work in a supportive and flexible environment.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Using Anonymous Recruitment
This organisation is using Anonymous Recruitment to reduce bias in the first stages of the hiring process. Submit your application as normal and our system will anonymise it for you. Your personal information will be hidden until the recruiter contacts you.
Role Purpose
The Finance Officer will be responsible for the day-to-day financial management of the charity, ensuring accurate bookkeeping, robust financial controls, and timely financial reporting. The postholder will work closely with the CEO to support budgeting, grant and tender applications, procurement, and financial reporting to the Board of Trustees.
This is a key role in ensuring the charity’s financial sustainability, compliance, and effective use of resources.
Key Responsibilities
Bookkeeping and Financial Operations
- Maintain accurate and up-to-date financial records using appropriate accounting software.
- Manage day-to-day bookkeeping, including income, expenditure, bank reconciliations, and petty cash.
- Process purchase orders, invoices, and payments in line with financial procedures.
- Monitor cash flow and flag any concerns to the CEO.
- Payroll and expenses responsibility
Budgeting and Financial Planning
- Support the CEO in developing and monitoring the annual organisational budget.
- Assist with the preparation of budgets and finanical reporting for grant and tender applications as requested.
- Track expenditure against budgets and provide regular updates.
Financial Reporting and Governance
- Prepare quarterly financial reports for the Board of Trustees.
- Contribute to the annual budget report for trustee approval.
- Support year-end financial processes, including preparation for independent examination or audit.
- Ensure financial records meet charity and regulatory requirements.
Procurement and Ordering
- Source suppliers and obtain quotes for subscriptions, resources, services and any other relevant needs.
- Place orders for materials and equipment (e.g. laptops, office equipment) in line with budget approvals.
- Maintain records of assets and equipment.
Support to the CEO and Organisation
- Work closely with the CEO on financial planning, reporting, and decision-making.
- Provide financial information and analysis to support organisational planning.
- Undertake any other finance-related duties appropriate to the role.
Person Specification
Essential
- Qualified and experienced bookkeeper (e.g. AAT or equivalent experience).
- Proven experience of bookkeeping and financial administration, ideally within a charity or not-for-profit setting.
- Experience of preparing budgets and financial reports.
- Strong numerical skills and attention to detail.
- Ability to work independently and manage a varied workload.
- Experience with bookkeeping software such as “Zero”
- Good IT skills, including accounting software and Microsoft Excel.
- Understanding of confidentiality and data protection.
Desirable
- Experience of charity finance and funder reporting.
- Experience of supporting grant or tender applications.
- Knowledge of charity governance and trustee reporting.
Working Arrangements
This is a hybrid role, with a mix of office-based and home working subject to performance, needs of the charity and agreement. Working days are flexible, with a preference for Monday, Wednesday, and/or Friday, subject to agreement.
Equality and Diversity
The charity is committed to equality, diversity, and inclusion and welcomes applications from all sections of the community.
Hours: 14 hours per week (worked over 2–3 days - to be agreed)
Preferred working days: Monday / Wednesday / Friday (to be agreed)
Salary: £15–£20 per hour(£10,920–£14,560 per annum for 14 hours/week, equivalent to £29,260 upwards FTE) depending on experience
Benefits:
25 days annual leave excluding bank holidays (pro rata)
Extra leave: +1 day after 3 years’ service, +1 more day after 5 years
Birthday Leave
Sick pay package
Employee Assistance Programme (EAP)
Giving back Scheme - Volunteer day leave
Cycle to work scheme
Specsavers Partnership
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
Nb: This piece of recruitment is rolling and may close at any time.
In recent years OTR has seen a significant increase in demand for our youth mental health services and we now reach over 17,000 young people each year. We are seeking a Head of Finance to oversee our (circa) £3m annual budget and to ensure that our finance operation is efficient and effective. This role will lead OTR’s finance function and, as well as having responsibility for day-to-day financial processes, will be a key member of the organisation’s senior leadership team (SLT). The role will involve providing financial insight to the SLT and Board of Trustees to improve understanding and inform strategic decision making. Examples of this will include analysing the financial performance of different activities of the organisation and preparing budget and forecast information.
We are looking for an individual with demonstrable experience in a finance management role which includes a strategic focus, preferably in the voluntary sector. The successful candidate will be a flexible and meticulous individual who is able to present complex information to a range of audiences. Equally important is a strong personal interest in and commitment to the mental health and wellbeing of young people.
To find out more about the role please download the job pack. If you would like an informal chat about the role, please email the main contact as listed in the job pack
To apply for this role click the 'Apply now' button
We welcome applications from all sections of the community and are committed to developing a team that reflects the diversity of the people we work with
Safeguarding:
OTR is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. We expect all staff, trustees, and volunteers to share this commitment.
As part of our Safer Recruitment practices, all roles involving contact with young people will be subject to robust pre-employment checks, including references, a full employment history, and an enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check. Where applicable, overseas criminal record checks will also be required.
We are dedicated to creating a culture of vigilance, transparency, and accountability. Our safeguarding procedures are guided by the principle that the welfare of the child is paramount, and all staff are required to adhere to OTR’s Safeguarding and Child Protection Policy.
OTR & Benefits:
OTR is a mental health social movement by and for young people. The charity is at an exciting stage of its 59-year history and is proud to be reaching more young people than ever before (around 17,000) across Bristol, South Gloucestershire, and North Somerset with creative and diverse mental health and wellbeing info and support.
Our approach to mental health is grounded in a set of beliefs and values that underpin all of our work. We believe in celebrating diversity, empowering and mobilising young people to make change, and that catering to the unique strengths, interests and circumstances surrounding young people is key. Our approach centres on collaboration and partnership, building relationships between individuals, peers and communities.
Each day is as engaging and fulfilling as the last, and with a network of supportive, community minded people, we hope you’ll feel welcome here. As a thank you, we like to compensate our employees for the important work they do with a range of benefits including a flexible leave policy, healthcare cost and wellbeing assistance with HealthShield, flexible and hybrid working arrangements, enhanced sick pay, parental leave, training and development, social and wellbeing events, and more (subject to contractual terms and conditions).
A Willingness to Work with Difference
At OTR, whatever your role or professional background, you will be expected to work in a way that is anti-oppressive and inclusive. A key focus for OTR is to develop an organisation that is inclusive for all but we do not claim to be experts in this. We are committed to continuous learning and improvement in these areas and invite you to join us on this journey.
OTR recognises the benefits to individual practice and organisational credibility of having a diverse community of staff and volunteers and to this end is continually working towards building and maintaining an environment which values and pursues diversity accordingly.
We recognise that tackling systemic inequality, prejudice, racism and oppressive practice requires each of us to actively engage, self-examine and make changes where necessary, in order to improve access and equitable experience for all in society and all of those who come through our doors at OTR.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Goodman Masson are delighted to be partnered with The Scouts to recruit for an Interim Financial Controller on a 12 month Fixed Term Contract (MAT cover).
The Scouts actively engages and supports young people in their personal development, empowering them to make a positive contribution to society.
As their Financial Controller, you will lead the Financial Accounting and Payroll team. This hands-on, strategic role requires a leader capable of driving operational efficiency in transactional accounting while managing the complexity of statutory reporting, audit, and internal control frameworks.
It is essential that you have a strong working knowledge of Charity SORP and have led financial control teams within a similar sized organisation.
Key Responsibilities:
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Oversee all day-to-day accounting operations (AP, AR, GL, Banking) and drive efficiency. Ensure the integrity, controls, and continuous improvement of all finance systems.
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Be the primary lead for the production of annual statutory accounts and the management of the year-end audit. Ensure full compliance with tax obligations (VAT, Corporation Tax) and external regulations.
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Design, implement, and maintain a robust and effective internal control framework, ensuring processes are documented and controls are strictly followed.
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Lead cash flow management, debt collection, liaise with investment managers, and report on compliance with the financial reserves policy.
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Manage and motivate the Financial Accounting Team and oversee the Payroll Operations Manager, ensuring an accurate, timely, and compliant payroll and pensions service.
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Act as a key advisor to employees and trustees, specifically managing the fixed asset register and partnering on capital expenditure budgets.
Essentials:
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A recognised, full Professional Accounting Qualification (ACA, ACCA, CIMA).
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5-10 years’ Post-Qualification Experience (PQE) in a senior financial accounting or audit position with a demonstrable track record of success in managing complex financial operations.
- Experience working within a charity environment and strong knowledge of charity SORP.
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Proven experience in statutory accounts production, managing audits, implementing strong internal controls, and overseeing transactional teams.
- Strong change management skills and a passion for driving continuous process and system improvements.
Salary is up to £68,000 + Excellent Benefits.
The Scouts are based in Gilwell Park, Chingford, London. Hybrid working with 2 days per week in the office.
Nearest train station is Chingford Rail Station (25 minutes from Liverpool Street). A regular shuttle bus service operates from Chingford station to the Scouts Office (Gilwell Park). 5 minute journey time.
Ample on-site parking also available.
Applications will be reviewed as and when they are received with interviews set up on a rolling basis. Please apply ASAP to ensure you are considered.
In this role, you will develop as a finance professional through business partnering, strengthening financial processes and working within locally led model of international development. You’ll be part of small and mighty team working collaboratively.
We are bold, we are brave and we’re not afraid to work differently. At All We Can, your working days will be filled with purpose and meaning as we strive for a world where every community has the power, dignity, and resources to lead their own future – creating just societies. Your role will be crucial to maintaining the financial health and integrity of the organisation. By ensuring accurate and timely processed financial records, collaborative working across the team, compliance with regulations, and efficient financial processes, you will support the organisation's ambition.
If you join us, some things you’ll also work on are:
- Maintaining and improving financial compliance, controls, procedures, and guidelines and supporting colleagues to understand and adhere to them.
- Assisting in the preparation and delivery of the year-end audit
- Providing high quality business partnering and developing solutions to shared problems within and outside of your immediate team and to other teams in day-to-day business and for specific processes/projects.
We are looking for someone with previous finance experience in charity sector – fully or part-qualified ACCA/CIMA/ACA, and strong collaborative and relational skills to work with different colleague across the organisation. You will be a person who can take initiative, solve problems and get things done timely.
The team you’ll be joining is split between the UK and our six priority countries. In this team, we value participation, inclusive decision-making and good relationships. We also care for each other and create a sense of purpose-driven community. In our organisational culture we work towards trust and accountability, personal development, inclusion and care and being anti-racist.
For full list of accountabilities and requirements and the recruitment process, please see the application pack.
Location: The contract for the role is London-based – it means that while you can be working anywhere in the UK, you are responsible for the cost of your travel to the London-based office. On a regular basis we ask everyone to be in the office once a month for team day and every other month for Finance and Resources Team Day. Other meetings will happen that will also require in-person presence, but we can’t specify now how frequent they might be.
Why should you work with us?
- We pioneer locally led partnership-based international development model
- Everyone’s welcome! At All We Can, everyone’s welcome irrespective of age, disability, gender, race or ethnicity, religion or belief, sexual orientation, or other personal circumstances. We’re committed to building inclusive and caring culture. We value and respect the diversity of our employees and aim to recruit people who reflect diverse communities. We have policies and procedures in place to ensure that everyone’s treated fairly and consistently at every stage of your employment, and we are open to consider reasonable adjustments for disabled people.
- We’ll support your growth and development
Important note about completing your application – please read
When submitting the application, you will be asked to submit your CV and answer four competency-based questions. There’s no specified length for the answers and we ask you to use your judgment to balance between giving us as much information as needed and being succinct. Only applications that answer the questions will be considered. We’ll not consider answers which say ‘Please see the CV’. The scoring is primarily- based on the answers to the competency-based questions, so please ensure that you showcase your skills and experiences fully through those answers.
We look forward to receiving applications from people from variety of backgrounds and with different experiences. If you would like to find out more about the role or organisation, we encourage you to get in touch.
Use of AI is monitored and if applicants have used it then they are required to declare this.
Rooted in the Christian faith, All We Can is an international development and relief organisation, working to see every person’s potential fulfilled.



The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Using Anonymous Recruitment
This organisation is using Anonymous Recruitment to reduce bias in the first stages of the hiring process. Submit your application as normal and our system will anonymise it for you. Your personal information will be hidden until the recruiter contacts you.
The Difference is an education charity, founded to change the story on lost learning. Our vision is to see lost learning falling nationally by 2030 and for schools to be better equipped to support all children, particularly those most vulnerable.
Leading national policy strategy
As Head of Policy and Public Affairs, you will work closely with the CEO to develop and execute a four-year influencing plan. Together we’ll aim to shift local and national incentives on inclusion by 2030, which see the national trend of rising suspension and absence begin to fall.
You will hold relationships with the Department for Education and Ofsted and advise on policy priorities ahead, such as:
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Widening the definition of inclusion beyond special needs, recognising the needs of those young people historically or currently interacting with social services
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Reducing perverse incentives for schools to alter their school roll through admissions and pupil exits
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Expectations for multi-academy trusts in capturing and analysing data on lost learning, including how it disproportionately affects different groups
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Improving local alternative provision eco-systems, to improve outcomes for young people
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National standards for inclusive school practice, at a universal and targeted level
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Professional development standards for school inclusion
Developing implementation expertise in the middle tier
In your first six months, you will advise on the internal development of a new programme for middle tier policy actors: multi-academy trust and local authority leaders. You will support the Programme team in its design, to plan strategically for the recruitment of trusts and local authorities, and you will plan the research and influencing work which will seek to share their success nationally.
Building the evidence base
In your second six months, you will work with the CEO to build out our research function. Your influencing plan will include how The Difference can learn from the work across our multi-academy trust, local authority and internal AP pioneer partners over the next four years, to develop influential publications. Research work ahead will include publishing sector-facing publications of The Difference’s own research, carried out by our research lead and associates; alongside managing external contractors and internal colleagues to bid for and deliver aligned research disseminating our ideas.
Raising your voice
This is an exciting opportunity for someone committed to inclusive policy change. The Difference has always punched above our weight in national and sector press reach. In post, you will publish blogs and comment pieces, disseminating our shared ideas. You will be a prominent voice on inclusion.
The Difference is still a small and growing charity. This means that our work is fast-paced, our roles are broad, and there is a culture of being highly autonomous, reactive and flexible, as the needs of the organisation evolve. If this sounds exciting rather than daunting, then this could be the role and team for you!
The Role
This is an exciting time to join The Difference as we increase our impact, reach more schools, and develop our influencing strategy. As Head of Policy and Public Affairs you will:
Design and execute an impactful influencing plan
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Design an influencing plan - Identify via horizon scanning opportunities to influence national policy using open policy windows, or by nudging/creating new ones.
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Execute an influencing plan - Utilise own assets and assets across the organisation, including the Director team, to deliver against the influencing plan.
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Relationship building - Build highly credible and impactful relationships with a variety of stakeholders who hold power. This will include policy makers in national governments, local government officials, politicians, other third sector organisations and think tanks.
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Leadership - Play a significant role internally and externally in communicating the organisation’s policy position, raising organisational and own brand.
Build policy capacity and credibility across the organisation
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Policy positions and solutions- Use the concepts, work and experience of The Difference’s programmes to develop new, and refine existing, national policy positions to shift incentives.
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Thought leadership - Be the organisation’s education policy and political expert.
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Generating income - Use own and team’s expertise and credibility to generate income via speaking engagements and consultancy to support the organisation’s financial sustainability.
Person Specification
Essential – We are looking for someone with the following knowledge, experience and skills, though you may be stronger in some areas than others:
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Deep expertise in education policy, particularly on the topic of lost learning and the various policy and political debates, including areas of controversy, surrounding this policy topic.
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Strategic thinker with a proven track record in identifying policy windows and designing activities that lead to meaningful national policy change.
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Excellent relationship builder, who brings with them their own network of influential stakeholders and has a plan for building new relationships. Adept at navigating tricky situations and explaining complex, sometimes difficult, messages.
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Expert convener with a strong knowledge of the education sector, including which schools, trusts and local authorities are influential and experience in bringing a variety of perspectives together to generate consensus.
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Persuasive and clear writing style for publication, including reports, press, blogs and ghost writing for members of the senior leadership team, often based on consensus positions, and designed to communicate key messages for impact.
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Confidence and credibility in communicating nuanced messages in a contentious landscape, in writing, verbally and in public (e.g. on panels), to raise the profile of The Difference.
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Strong project manager who can design systems and processes to keep self, team and other stakeholders on task and on time. Experience of designing programmes of work and monitoring their effectiveness. Flexible project management style that can adapt to a changing environment. Confidence in managing a variety of stakeholders and supporting them to deliver on time.
Desired – You are more likely to be successful in your application if you have one or more of the following:
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Familiarity with The Difference’s programmatic work, theory and practice.
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Lived experience or insight into the school experiences of marginalised young people (e.g. those with experience of the care system, mental ill health, special educational needs, exclusion, and racism).
We know that some people, especially those from marginalised backgrounds, may hesitate to apply unless they meet every listed requirement. If this role excites you and you believe you could make a strong contribution, we warmly encourage you to apply.
We actively welcome applications from people whose backgrounds are under-represented in the charity sector, including but not limited to: people from black, Asian and minority ethnic backgrounds, LGBTQ+ people, people with disabilities, people with experience in the case system, non-graduates and first-in-family graduates.
The Difference exists to improve the life-outcomes of the most vulnerable children by raising the status and expertise of those who educate them.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Finance and Resource Director
Location: Hull - hybrid working available
Contract Type: Permanent
Hours: Part-time or full-time considered (min 3 days per week)
Salary: £65,000
• Lead the financial strategy for a diverse £6 million+ turnover charity.
• Oversee a unique commercial portfolio, including a Wetherspoon franchise.
• Join a senior team empowering students and shaping their experience.
We are helping a university students' union find a new Finance and Resource Director as they embark on a period of restructure in the Senior Leadership Team. This is a fantastic opportunity for a strategic finance leader to join a complex, values-driven organisation in Hull. If you are looking to combine your financial expertise with purpose-driven work, this role offers a unique challenge.
The organisation is happy to consider applicants on a part-time basis (min 3 days per week) or on a full-time basis. Hybrid working is offered with at least 50% of the role expected to be office based.
Company Overview
This is a student-led charity with a thriving commercial arm. With a turnover of over £6 million, its portfolio includes the UK's first J D Wetherspoon franchise on a university campus and a successful SPAR supermarket. The organisation has also invested in its spaces, creating a vibrant hub for student life, including a major live gig venue. The organisation is focused on empowering every student by championing their priorities through community organising.
Position Overview
As the Finance and Resource Director, you will be a key member of the Senior Leadership Team. You will provide strategic leadership across Finance, Facilities, and Health and Safety. Your role is vital to ensuring the organisation has the resources to deliver its strategic plan sustainably. You will work closely with the CEO, Trustees, and elected Presidents to drive commercial performance and support the organisation's mission.
Responsibilities
• Lead operational strategy for finance, facilities, and health & safety.
• Develop and deliver the group's long-term financial plan.
• Provide strategic financial guidance to the CEO and Boards.
• Oversee budgeting, forecasting, and annual financial reporting.
• Lead on the production on the annual statutory accounts.
• Manage key relationships with auditors, banks, HMRC, and the external management accountants.
• Ensure robust financial governance and risk management.
• Lead on contract negotiations and ethical investment strategy.
• Champion and role-model the organisation's inclusive culture.
Requirements
• A recognised accountancy qualification (ACCA, CIMA, ACA, or CIPFA).
• Senior leadership and management experience.
• Proven experience in strategic financial planning and reporting.
• Experience in developing systems and leading organisational change.
• Excellent communication skills, able to present to board level.
• Strong stakeholder management and relationship-building skills.
• A genuine empathy with the values of a student-led organisation.
• Experience in the charity or higher education sector is desirable.
Benefits
• Generous annual leave of 27 days plus bank holidays and additional leave
• Paid volunteering days to support causes you care about.
• Comprehensive health and wellbeing support.
• Staff discounts across campus and various retail schemes.
• Cycle-to-work scheme and travel perks.
• Access to training and development opportunities.
Alongside these benefits, you will join a supportive and progressive senior team. You will help shape a fun, inclusive, and solution-focused culture, directly improving students' university experience.
Commitment to Diversity
The organisation is committed to building a team that reflects the diversity of its membership and the communities it serves. We actively encourage applications from underrepresented groups, including racially and ethnically minoritised individuals, women, non-binary people, and people with disabilities.
How to Apply
Please send your CV for consideration by the closing date
Closing date: Monday 23rd February at 12 noon
Interviews: Wednesday 25th February - most likely onsite. Possible second interview w/c 2nd March.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
**Closing date changed from 9th to 8th February 2026. Interviewing on a rolling basis so candidates encouraged to apply early**
Role Summary
The (Senior) Communications Manager will lead the development and execution of communications to help us win our campaigns. We are looking for a proactive and hands-on team player, who will build relationships with journalists, securing media hits in top mainstream media, ensuring that communications are a strong part of our strategies to win campaigns. While the position involves broader communications tasks, its core focus is strategic media work — driving impactful coverage, shaping narratives, and ensuring our investigative campaigns gain global visibility.
Key Responsibilities (Media-Focused)
- Lead proactive and reactive media outreach for multiple high-profile campaigns.
- Build and maintain strong relationships with international, national, and trade journalists, build and maintain our in-house media list.
- Secure high-impact coverage in top-tier outlets and place investigative stories, exclusives, and op-eds.
- Develop media strategies that amplify campaign findings and influence corporate behaviour and policies.
We are a small team, so this is a hands-on role with the focus on press work, but it also requires managing our key communications channels and our website. The Communications Manager will report directly to the CEO and work closely with the team, as well as manage a social media free-lancer and other communications creatives, such as video-editors.
Candidate Profile
We are looking for an experienced communications professional with at least 7 years’ experience in journalism or in leading successful communications for a non-profit organisation, PR agency, or similar. Ideally, you are a creative, hands-on individual with great inter-personal skills, able to form collaborative working relationships with a variety of different stakeholders, ranging from journalists to creative agencies and our NGO partners.
What we are looking for – Skills & Experience
The successful candidate must have:
- Demonstrable experience personally leading media outreach for major investigations or campaigns, with a proven record of securing top-tier international and national coverage (e.g. Financial Times, Guardian, Reuters, AP, Bloomberg, major broadcasters).
- A strong, active network of journalist contacts, and the confidence and instinct to pick up the phone, pitch stories, brief reporters, and manage embargoed launches under tight deadlines.
- Excellent writing, editing, and storytelling skills in English, with the ability to craft sharp press materials; proficiency in additional languages is an asset.
- Experience coordinating and executing major report launches, working closely with campaigners and partners to shape narratives that cut through, develop media strategies, prepare messaging, and proactively pitch stories to journalists.
- An exceptional eye for detail and an ability to distil complex research into clear, compelling, and accessible media and social-media content.
- Strong organisational skills, with the ability to balance multiple deadlines, manage fast-moving campaigns, and perform under pressure.
- A creative, strategic mindset, able to think outside the box, introduce innovative communications tactics, and adapt messaging to a rapidly changing external environment.
- Digital fluency, with experience leading online engagement or mobilisation campaigns and an understanding of how digital channels support broader media and campaign goals.
- Willingness and ability to generate regular content to win campaigns, including social media posts, op-eds, blogs, newsletters, and other campaign materials; familiarity with tools such as WordPress, Mailchimp, and Canva.
- Excellent interpersonal skills, with a collaborative working style, a growth mindset, and a positive, solution-focused, and proactive approach to communications and relationship-building, both internally and externally.
- A commitment to environmental and social justice, with a passion for using communications to drive meaningful systemic change.
It’s a plus if a candidate has:
- Excellent knowledge of and experience working within the environmental and social impact sectors.
- Good knowledge of the use of creative communication tactics, such as short videos.
- Passion to create narrative shifts on complex social issues and personal interest in countering misinformation and greenwashing.
For full details of the role, person specification and salary, please see the attached job description.
About Changing Markets
The Changing Markets Foundation was formed to accelerate and scale up solutions to sustainability challenges by leveraging the power of markets. We create and run campaigns that expose irresponsible corporate practices and shift market share away from unsustainable products and companies towards environmentally and socially beneficial solutions.
We have a successful track record of achieving media coverage in mainstream publications, which has played a critical role in winning our campaigns. We have been running successful campaigns across climate, food, fashion, and circular economy issues, as well as impactful projects, such as a cross-sectoral greenwashing observatory.
We are a Dutch-based not-for-profit stichting (foundation) registered in Utrecht, but this role is based in our London office. Please note candidates require independent right to work in the UK as we do not offer visa sponsorship.
How to Apply
We are working with Oxford HR to recruit this position and the link to apply will take you to their page and details of the application process. If you have any questions about the role please reach out to Oxford HR in the first instance.
Deadline to apply is close of play on 8th February 2026 but please note we will be interviewing on a rolling basis, so early application is encouraged.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.





