Area director jobs in birmingham

Head of Internal Audit

We’re looking for an enthusiastic and motivated individual to join the team as the internal auditor.

Applications from individuals who are seeking flexible working options, including reduced hours or job shares are welcomed.

Position: SIT60 Head of Internal Audit

Location: Home-based. However, occasional travel will be required as part of this role (may include team meetings or other work-related meetings)

Salary: Circa £33,500 (FTE circa £51k) (inner London weighting £2,595 pro rata or outer London weighting £1,495 pro rata may be applied in accordance with where you live)

Hours: Part-time, 23 hours per week

Contract: Permanent

Benefits: 25 days’ annual leave plus bank holidays (this will increase with service up to 30 days, full time equivalent) cashback and discount scheme, employee assistance programme, learning and development, pension scheme, Life Assurance, Eye Care vouchers, Long Service Award, Tax-free childcare, Health Cash Plan, Working Pattern Agreement, flexible working opportunities available.

Closing Date: 10 October 2025. We reserve the right to close this vacancy early if we receive sufficient applications for the role.

Interview Date: 21 October 2025. Depending on the outcome a second interview may be arranged.

Interviews will be held via video conferencing. Please let us know if this will present any challenges when you email your application.

The Role

The role reports to the Associate Director of Legal and Governance, with an independent reporting line to the Chair of the Finance Committee.

The role will provide a comprehensive programme of internal audits into the activities of our charity and will report to our Finance Committee with recommendations for improvement. This is a crucial role in safeguarding the charity’s assets and reputation.

Key responsibilities will include:

• To establish effective and robust operational and strategic Internal Audit plans for the Charity and to report on progress of the plan
• To carry out the Internal Audits within the Internal Audit Plan, within the agreed timetable and budget shown in the Plan, to report on them, to present them to Board and Committee meetings and to monitor progress.
• To liaise with externally sourced providers of internal audit services in support of the role and for conducting internal audits into specialist areas of activity of the charity (such as IT arrangements).
• To maintain a strong working relationship with the Finance Committee, its Chair and the Chief Executive and to act as a Business Partner to all Executive Directors in relation to internal audit.
• To contribute to the Charity’s efforts to avoid fraud, including by advising on new policies and to lead on fraud investigations where appropriate
• To ensure a joined-up approach to both the external and internal audit work, minimising duplication and feeding into the external audit risk assessment.
• To liaise effectively with colleagues to ensure any potential new financial systems have adequate consideration of internal controls.
• To keep up to date with Internal Audit practice and developments and advise the Charity in relation to internal audit matters.

About You

You will have:

• A qualification in internal audit or accounting (e.g. CIA, MIIA, AAT, ACCA, CIMA) as a minimum.
• A good knowledge of how charities operate and their main processes including Finance, HR, Fundraising and CRM systems.
• An in-depth knowledge of risk based internal auditing techniques, including testing and sampling methodologies.
• A good understanding of charity related compliance requirements, and appropriate counter-fraud measures and risk management processes
• An ability to act with authority and provide an independent voice on internal audit matters affecting the charity.

To fulfil the role, you must be a resident of the UK and have the right to work in the UK.

When you click to apply, you will be able to see the full responsibilities and person specification for further information on the role.

Please submit your CV, (including details of your current address), and a supporting statement of no more than two pages, demonstrating how you meet the person specification and what you bring to the role in terms of your skills and experience. Please state any preferences for flexible options in your covering letter. Applications from individuals who are seeking flexible working options, including reduced hours or job shares are welcomed.

Finding strength through support

The organisation is the only charity in the UK providing lifelong support for all stroke survivors and their families. Providing tailored support to tens of thousands of stroke survivors each year. This support includes one-to-one and group support, funding vital scientific research into stroke prevention, acute treatment, recovery and long-term care, and campaigning to secure the best care for everyone affected by stroke. 

They are here for stroke survivors and their loved ones, from the moment they enter the new and frightening post-stroke world, supporting them every step of the way as they find their strength and their way back to life.

It’s only thanks to the generosity of supporters and donors that they can provide vital support. 

The Association is driven by an ambition to improve the lives of everyone affected by stroke. This means they’re determined to create an equitable and inclusive workplace that benefits from the difference, and thrives on the diversity, of our people. Guided by an approach to solving inequity in stroke, the team are prioritising listening to, and learning from, lived experience across the charity.

The charity are working to improve the representation of this lived experience at all levels within the Association and are eager to recruit applicants from a variety of communities and backgrounds. We are keen to receive applications from people affected by stroke, people of colour, members of LGBT+ communities, and disabled people because these identities and experiences are underrepresented and would add enormous value to how the organisation work.

A Disability Confident employer, the organisation is making great progress focusing on flexible working, reasonable adjustments and access to work. The charity has a variety of staff network groups and are committed to continuously improving diversity and inclusion efforts. If you have questions, or access needs, we’re happy to discuss any support and adjustments we can make throughout the recruitment process so that you’re able to contribute your best in a way that meets your needs.

You may also have experience in areas such as Auditor, Lead Auditor, Head Auditor, Head of Internal Audit, Head of Internal Auditing, Director of Internal Audit, Director of of Internal Audit, Internal Auditing Director, Internal Audit Director, Senior Auditor, CIA, MIIA, AAT, ACCA, CIMA. #INDNFP

PLEASE NOTE: This role is being advertised by NFP People on behalf of the organisation.

This is a critical and exciting leadership role for the Bumblebee Conservation Trust which will take the Trust forward to the next phase of organisational growth, building on the superb achievements to date of our retiring CEO. 

You’ll need passion and energy to work on some of the most profound challenges of our time. Nature needs its champions, and you’ll need to harness all of your skills, all of your personality, and your network to grow our influence, our impact, and our outcomes. You’ll excel at galvanising others to take action  enabling  us to achieve our aims and ensure bumblebees are thriving and valued by everyone.

This is an incredible opportunity to join a very special organisation with passionate and high-performing teams who are truly dedicated to our vital purpose. 

Please refer to the CEO pack for further information.

The Trust is an Equal Opportunities employer.  This means that whilst seeking employment or during such employment with the Trust, we will seek to ensure equality of treatment for all persons regardless of sex, race, age, marital or civil partnership status, disability, religion or belief, sexual orientation, gender reassignment, pregnancy or maternity status. 

At the Trust, we have a clear goal: to be the place where a diverse mix of talented people want to come, to stay and do their best work. We pride ourselves on reaching for our vision, through the hard work and dedication of our passionate and creative employees. 

At Makani, we are passionate about working with women seeking sanctuary to overcome trauma, fight for rights, and to transform lives and the world around us. Our vision is a world of freedom, equality and dignity for all refugee women and girls. 

WHAT WE DO

We work in Lebanon with Syrian and Palestinian women, and in the UK with women from all over the world. 

Our arts projects include theatre and craft therapy, filmmaking and feminist embroidery. We also facilitate access to training, education and income generation opportunities, and run workshops on parenting support and on women’s rights in a context of rights for all. 

Our flagship Oshana project provides refugee women in Lebanon with a dignified income, a supportive community, and a creative outlet for trauma through embroidery and crochet - and has built a reputation for beautiful design and impeccable craftsmanship. 

We are a young but ambitious organisation that is transforming the lives of hundreds of refugee women and their families in Lebanon, and dozens in the UK. We have rapidly grown over the past three years, with an accompanying increase in income. 

WHO WE ARE

Makani was founded in 2022 and officially registered as a charity in June 2024. One of our co-founders has her own lived experience of displacement; both have worked for many years supporting women who have been forced to leave their homes. 

We now have two staff in the UK and four in Lebanon. We work from home with occasional meetings in London for UK-based staff. As Finance and Administration Manager, you will join us as our seventh staff member, a key member of the team.

As a charity with a strong emphasis on mental health, we foster a supportive and inclusive working environment. We are friendly and flexible. Our team members enjoy working with Makani because we care about each other and are passionate about what we do.

Makani means ‘my place’ in Arabic. We gave this name to our charity as we want to create a space which women who have been forced to leave their homes, or who have felt dispossessed by society, can call their own. Could Makani be your place too?

THE ROLE

We are looking for an experienced and dedicated Finance and Administration Manager to lead on developing and maintaining our financial and organisational systems, enabling Makani to increase our impact on the lives of refugee women. 

Position: Finance and Administration Manager

Contract type: Permanent - but also open to applications on a consultant basis

Responsible to: Director of Operations

Location: Home-based, with occasional meetings in London (transport costs covered)

Hours: 20 hours per week, core hours to be agreed upon appointment, flexitime-friendly

Salary: £35,000 per annum pro rata (£20,000 for the 20 hour week)

Annual leave and benefits:

28 days annual leave pro rata (not including bank holidays)

Company pension with matched contributions of at least 3% after probation passed.

KEY ROLE RESPONSIBILITIES

Finance

• Work with the Executive team to set and monitor annual budgets

• Record all financial transactions using accounting software (Xero)

• Record and track multiple restricted and unrestricted grants from a range of donors

• Prepare and present quarterly management accounts for the Board

• Prepare end-of-year accounts 

• Oversee payroll and ensure timely invoice payments

• Ensure the charity complies with the financial requirements of the Charity Commission, HMRC and other bodies

• Develop and maintain financial procedures and internal controls

• Liaise with external accountants or auditors for the preparation of annual accounts and statutory reporting

• Monitor cash flow and support the Director of Operations in maintaining financial sustainability

• Work with colleagues to prepare budgets and financial reports for funders

• Contribute to development of funding bids, with Executive Team.
   

Administration & HR

• Support the board and senior staff to maintain and update charity policies (safeguarding, finance, HR, etc.)

• Support the board to develop HR processes to ensure legal compliance 

• Organise and minute quarterly trustee meetings

• Book travel and support with other logistics as needed

• Other administrative tasks as relevant and appropriate
   

ROLE REQUIREMENTS

You will have:

• Proven experience in charity financial management, including restricted/unrestricted funding

• Familiarity with or willingness to learn Xero accounting software

• Familiarity with UK charity accounting and reporting standards

• Strong organisational and administrative skills

• Ability to work independently and remotely and to communicate well in a small team

• Understanding of good HR policies and practice for small charities 

• Understanding of or willingness to learn about other key areas of compliance such as data protection 

• Commitment to Makani’s mission and our feminist and anti-racist values

And it's desirable but not essential that you have:

• Experience of preparing funding bids and financial reporting to funders 

• Experience of working in a charity with some overseas operations

TO APPLY

To apply, click the CharityJob Apply button below.

You’ll be asked to submit a CV and a cover letter outlining your experience and suitability for the role.

• CV - no more than two sides A4.
• Cover letter outlining your experience and suitability for the role - no more than two sides A4.

First-round interviews will take place in the week commencing 29 September; final interviews may take place after that if required.

Closing date: 18:00 on 19 September 2025

Makani is an equal opportunity employer. We encourage candidates of all backgrounds to apply.

Delegated Services is a thriving Community Interest Company (CIC) dedicated to being the first-choice partner for the education and community sectors, providing high-quality support services with incredible value.

We are at a pivotal moment in our growth, and we are now seeking an exceptional and visionary Chief Executive Officer to build upon our strong foundations and guide us into a future of even greater impact and support to the Education and Community sectors in the West Country, but with a National reach.

This is a unique opportunity for a passionate and strategic leader to join our dedicated team. We understand the importance of a smooth and effective transition, and as such, the handover process from our current CEO will be carefully phased over 6 months. This period will allow for comprehensive knowledge transfer, relationship building, and a seamless integration into the organisation, ensuring the continued success and stability of Delegated Services.

We are looking for someone who:

• Has a proven track record of strategic leadership and operational management, ideally within the not-for-profit or social enterprise sector

• Possesses a deep understanding of governance, financial management, and stakeholder engagement within a CIC framework, building and maintaining effective relationships with a diverse range of stakeholders, for example, demonstrating working experience with School/MAT CEOs, Leaders, Headteachers, etc. knowing how schools work, with preferably some knowledge of the charity sector

• Is an inspirational communicator, capable of motivating teams, building strong partnerships, and advocating for our mission

• Is an experienced and skilled professional in our core areas of service, primarily, HS&W

• Can market and sell the services to potential new customers and negotiate with existing agreement customers, renewal of their arrangements, where applicable, for April and September 2026 and beyond, repeating the process on a rolling basis, and

• Is committed to our values and passionate about making a tangible difference in education and the community.

If you are ready to take on a significant leadership role within a values-driven organisation and contribute to a legacy of positive change, we encourage you to apply.

Application must be submitted by the end of day deadline: 31st October 2025.

Significant opportunity

We have a significant opportunity to put the tools into the hands of those working with Children, Young People and Families that will better equip them to see young lives transformed. 

Scripture Union are looking to appoint two Content Creators: One specialising in under 11s & families and one specialising in Young People.  You will see that our current portfolio is extensive, but we would like to ensure that we add to it with focused material (whether digital or physical, whether free or paid for).  You will both be involved in the creation of new content and in contracting other specialists who have skills in communicating to children and young people that we would like to develop.  Also, promoting those resources at various conferences and festivals to complement the work of our marketing team. 

Working Patterns

The role is remote with some travel to our Head Office at Trinity House Milton Keynes to collaborate face to face with the rest of the team. 

Part Time options can also be considered, but we will give priority to those who can work at least three days a week and a commitment for a physical presence in Milton Keynes as the role requires but no more than once weekly.   

Also, flexible working may be necessary when promoting resources.

Why Scripture Union?  

• Remote working
• 23 days holiday + bank holidays + 5 volunteering days 
• Up to 12% pension contribution 
• Life insurance 
• Enhanced family leave.  
• Free Bible Reading Guide 
• A supportive, faith-filled environment where your work has eternal impact  

Important things to note before you apply

• We are committed to building a culturally diverse workforce. As part of this commitment, we welcome applications from people, regardless of their background.   

• The Movement takes Safeguarding seriously. This role will require a Disclosure from the Disclosure & Barring Service and has an occupational requirement to be filled by a committed Christian, active in church life. Equality Act 2010, Part 1, Schedule 9 applies.   

• Please note that we do not provide visa sponsorship arrangements so applicants will need to have the right to live and be employed in a permanent job in the UK. 

How to Apply   

If this describes you, and you are in agreement with the aims and beliefs of Scripture Union, then we would like to hear from you. To apply for this role, download a copy of the job profile. You will need to upload your CV (2 A4 pages max) and a covering letter (2 A4 pages max) detailing how your skills and experience reflect the person specification via Charity Jobs. All screening questions provided as part of your application, must be answered.   

Closing Date: 8th October 2025

Interview Date: 21st October

Interview Location: Milton Keynes

Project Development Manager - Southern England
Reference: SEP20250002
Location: Home based in the South of England with frequent travel required to RSPB reserves and other sites for meetings
Contract: Permanent
Hours: Full Time, 37.5 hours per week
Salary: £43,095.00 - £46,264.00 Per Annum
Benefits: Pension Scheme, Life Assurance Scheme, 26 days' Annual Leave

Do you have the passion, skills, and experience to help develop and deliver complex nature conservation and infrastructure projects in the South of England? We’re looking for someone who is well-organised, solutions-focused, and can adapt their skills to the development and delivery of a diverse range of projects.

We have an exciting opportunity for a dynamic, skilled and passionate Project Development Manager to join our England Project Management team, working primarily in the South of England. 

The England Project Management Team manage all sorts of projects, from species recovery at a landscape scale to infrastructure repairs and commercial developments. Each day as a Project Development Manager is different. You might find yourself chairing a project team meeting one day, visiting a construction site the next, and negotiating with contractors the day after that.

As a Project Development Manager, you will directly manage some of the most ambitious and complex projects within the RSPB. At the same time, you will work closely with the Operations Director and Area Managers in the Southern region to develop a pipeline of projects across the South, and make sure they’re being well-managed.

Our project teams include colleagues from a range of disciplines as well as external consultants and suppliers. You’ll need to be able to build relationships across internal and external stakeholders and motivate others to get things done to keep projects progressing smoothly.

Key activities will include:

• Develop and manage one or more complex projects at any one time. To include budget management, stakeholder management, risk management, contractor procurement and other tasks as required. 
• Lead and motivate project teams to achieve project success by focusing on a common goal. 
• Develop and oversee a pipeline of projects that contribute to delivery against strategic priorities, working with regional/country management teams. 
• Provide support & advice to the regional /country management team to enable them to use the PMF effectively to deliver strategic priorities and successful projects (including ensuring project assurance is in place). 
• Line management of more junior project management team members.
• Provide advice and support to colleagues on project management best practice, helping to build overall project management capability across England.
• Be an advocate for Cora, the RSPB’s on-line project management system.
• Undertake project reviews as commissioned by the management team/other stakeholders including other regions & countries to ensure lessons are learned, best practice shared, and capability increased.

Essential skills, knowledge and experience:

• Proven project management skills relating to planning and managing complex projects, managing risks/costs/time and leading multidisciplinary project teams.
• Ability to influence others, communicate effectively, build collaborative relationships and represent the organisation.
• Knowledge of project management methodologies and approaches, with the ability to support more junior colleagues in this area.
• Ability to work under pressure and adapt to changing circumstances.
• Demonstrable experience of developing and working in partnership to achieve shared outcomes. 
• Ability to solve issues quickly, efficiently and creatively.
• Cost and budget management.
• Impressive time management and organisational skills.
• A tangible passion for the planet.

Desirable skills, knowledge and experience:

• Project or Programme Management Qualification (APMPMQ, Prince 2, MSP).
• Experience of relevant projects such as habitat creation/restoration, building renovations (particularly visitor facilities), multi-partner projects, community engagement. 
• Line management experience. 

Closing date: 23:59, Sun, 5th Oct 2025

We are looking to conduct interviews for this position from October 2025.

Interested?

If you would like to find out more, please click the apply button. You will be directed to our recruitment partner's website to complete your application for this position.

We are committed to developing an inclusive and diverse RSPB, in which everyone feels supported, valued, and able to be their full selves. To achieve our vision of creating a world richer in nature, we need more people, and more diverse people, on nature’s side. People of colour and disabled people are currently underrepresented across the environment, climate, sustainability, and conservation sector. If you identify as a person of colour and/or disabled, we are particularly interested in receiving your application.

The RSPB is an equal opportunities employer. This role is covered by the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974.

This role is not eligible for UK Visa Sponsorship - the successful applicant will need to have a pre-existing Right to Work in the UK in order to be offered an employment contract.

As part of this application process you will be asked to provide a copy of your CV and complete an application form including evidence on how you meet the skills, knowledge, and experience listed above. Contact us to discuss any additional support you may need to complete your application.

No agencies please.

Financial Controller

We are seeking a qualified or part-qualified accountant for an exciting Financial Controller position with a growing international charity working at the intersection of cultural heritage and community development.

Position: Financial Controller
Location: Remote (UK-based) – may require occasional international travel
Contract: Permanent
Hours: Full-time
Salary: £50,000 - £60,000 per annum, depending on experience
 

Closing Date: 21st September 2025 at 11.59pm

About the Role

Reporting to the Group Finance Director, this is a varied and hands-on role leading on the consolidation of accounts and supporting the organisation’s finance operations across multiple countries. You will play a key role in ensuring financial transparency, compliance, and robust reporting, working closely with both the central finance team and in-country colleagues.

As part of a close-knit and collaborative team, the Financial Controller will need a flexible, practical approach and a willingness to partner with stakeholders across different cultures and geographies.

Key responsibilities include:

• Financial Planning and Budgeting
• Book-keeping and Accounting
• Preparation of Monthly Consolidated Accounts
• Annual Statutory Audit and Compliance
• Grants and Funding Management
• Payroll & Employee Benefits
• Bank and Cash Management
• Group Accounting Oversight

About You

The successful candidate will be a resourceful, detail-oriented problem solver with excellent communication and collaboration skills. You will have strong technical accounting knowledge, experience working with international NGOs, and the ability to manage complex, multi-currency, multi-entity finances.

Key skills and experience required:

• Recognised accounting qualification (ACCA/CIMA) or part-qualified in final stages of completion
• Strong financial analysis and reporting skills, with the ability to produce and present concise financial reports
• Experience of managing and developing teams in dispersed or matrix settings
• Proven experience in the International NGO sector
• Experience producing consolidated statutory accounts under Charity UK SORP and managing multi-site international audits
• Experience with multi-currency and grant accounting
• Excellent understanding of financial processes, procedures, and related systems
• Experience of leading a month-end process, including preparation of management accounts
• Experience using cloud-based accounting systems (QuickBooks and/or Xero preferred)
• Understanding of commercial accounting and Gift Aid

Desirable:

• Experience mentoring colleagues remotely
• Experience working in a fully remote role
• Experience in a similar field (e.g. artisan communities or cultural heritage)

How to Apply
To apply, please send a CV and a statement (no longer than 2 pages) outlining why you are the right person for this role.

About the Organisation

The employer is a British charity founded in 2006 that believes artisanal heritage matters and has the power to transform lives. The charity supports artisans to thrive, revitalise endangered traditions, and connect people across the world through heritage.

The organisation is fast-growing, with offices in Afghanistan, Myanmar, Saudi Arabia, and the Levant, and employs over 400 staff worldwide. With both charitable and trading operations, they deliver an ambitious, wide-ranging programme of work in complex and sometimes conflict-affected regions.

You may have experience in areas such as: Group Financial Controller, Financial Controller/Senior Manager, Management Accountant, ACCA, ACA, CIMA, Accountant, Chartered Accountant, Divisional Financial Controller, Assistant Group Financial Controller, International NGO Finance Lead.

PLEASE NOTE: This role is being advertised by NFP People on behalf of the organisation.

Contract Type: Maternity Cover for 12 months

Location: Birmingham

Assessment Day: On the 3rd of October in our Birmingham Centre. 

Do you believe the outdoors has the power to change lives?

Are you passionate about helping young people overcome challenges, build resilience, and discover their potential through hands-on experiences in nature? If so, this could be the perfect opportunity for you!

At The King’s Trust, we use the natural world as a classroom to inspire growth, confidence, and self-reliance in young people. We’re looking for a Youth Development Lead with a love of bushcraft and the outdoors to join our team and deliver meaningful, adventurous programmes that empower young people to thrive.

In this role, you’ll lead outdoor-based personal development activities—everything from fire-lighting, shelter-building, and wild cooking to confidence workshops and problem-solving challenges in woodland settings. You’ll provide one-to-one mentoring and group support, guiding young people as they build new skills, overcome obstacles, and shape their own futures.

Collaboration is key—you’ll work closely with local partners, external agencies, and service providers to ensure each young person receives high-quality, tailored support. You’ll also take responsibility for tracking progress, keeping accurate records, and ensuring all activities are delivered safely and responsibly in line with safeguarding, health and safety, and funding requirements.

We’re looking for someone with:

• A genuine passion for youth development and the outdoors
• Experience in mentoring, bushcraft, or outdoor programme delivery
• Strong people skills and the ability to inspire trust and resilience
• Flexibility to work in varied environments, from community hubs to woodland camps

This is a hands-on role where you’ll have the chance to share practical bushcraft knowledge, spark curiosity, and make a lasting difference in the lives of young people—helping them grow stronger, more confident, and better connected to the natural world.

What happens next?  

Please submit a CV, and Cover Letter that includes your experience, transferrable skills and motivation to work for The King's Trust! The Team will be in touch about the next steps shortly after the closing date. 

Why do we need Youth Development Leads? 

Last year, we helped more than 40,000 Young People, with every three in four moving into a positive outcome for either work, education or training. Youth Development Leads play a crucial role in supporting young people, no matter the young person's background or current circumstances, to fulfil their full potential. We want to continue having a positive impact on young people’s lives and we couldn’t do this without the important work of Youth Development Leads! 

Perks for working at The Trust! 

• Great holiday package! 30 days annual leave entitlement, plus bank holidays. Office closure on the days between Christmas and New Year 
• Flexible working! Unless the location of the role is remote, the Youth Development Lead role requires a combination of office days and working from home. 
• You can volunteer for and/or attend events – The King's Trust Awards, Pride, active events etc. 
• In-house learning platform! Develop your skills for your career and your role 
• Benefits platform! Everything from health and financial well-being support to discounts on your favourite restaurants, shops and cinemas. 
• Personal development opportunities through our Networks – KT CAN (Cultural Awareness Network), KT GEN (Gender Equality Network), KT DAWN (Disability & Wellbeing Network), and PULSE (LGBTQIA+ Network). 
• Fantastic Family leave! Receive 13 weeks of full pay and 13 weeks of half pay for maternity and adoption leave. Receive 8 weeks of full pay for paternity leave. 
• Interest-free season ticket loans 
• Cycle-to-Work Scheme
• The Trust will contribute 5% of your salary to the Trust Pension Scheme 
• Generous life assurance cover (4 x annual salary) 

Join Mersey Rivers Trust and Help Make a Real Impact for Rivers, Wildlife and Communities! 

Are you a skilled finance and governance professional looking to use your expertise for good? Mersey Rivers Trust is seeking a Finance and Governance Manager to join our Senior Leadership Team and help shape the future of our environmental charity. 

We’re a passionate team working to protect and restore rivers across Greater Manchester, Merseyside and Cheshire — and we need someone like you to ensure our finances and governance are as strong as our mission. 

The Mersey Rivers Trust (MRT) is an environmental charity focussing on the protection and enhancement of rivers and waterbodies in the Mersey Catchment. It operates in an area covering Greater Manchester, Merseyside and Cheshire. We have an annual turnover of c£1m and employ 19 staff delivering up to 30 projects per year. The Trust works with partners, local communities, and volunteers to deliver a wide range of projects including river restoration, reduction of flood risk by Natural Flood Management techniques, river monitoring, volunteer events (eg river clean-ups/invasive species control and citizen science), community engagement and education events, farm advice/plans and biodiversity net gain. The Trust continues to evolve to meet the increasing challenges of protecting and enhancing rivers and waterbodies in the catchment.

We are seeking a Finance and Governance Manager to join our Senior Leadership Team and lead the Trust’s finance, governance, and back-office functions. This is a pivotal role focused on ensuring financial integrity, regulatory compliance, and effective charity governance. While not involved in field-based project delivery, the Finance Manager plays a strategic role in supporting the organisation’s mission by enabling robust financial planning, reporting, and operational support. You will work closely with the Chief Executive Officer, Board of Trustees, and project teams to ensure the Trust remains financially resilient and well-governed.

As the Finance and Governance Manager, you should possess expertise in financial control and reporting, allowing you to effectively handle delegated responsibilities. Your numerical skills and critical thinking abilities will enable you to proactively address challenges and streamline processes. 

The role holder will report directly to the Chief Executive Officer and will be a member of the Senior Leadership Team. The role will also include direct line management responsibilities of the Administration Officer. 

If you are a motivated financial professional with a passion for driving organisational success, we invite you to apply and contribute to our team’s growth. 

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the management of the back-office function and Charity governance of MRT.
• Act as the Company Secretary to ensure compliance with financial and legal requirements, as well as maintaining high standards of Charity governance.
• Work with the Chief Executive Officer to prepare and manage budgets, provide input to the Trust’s business plan and strategic initiatives.
• Contribute to the strategic direction of the Trust as a member of the Senior Leadership Team.
• Provide financial insight and analysis to support strategic decision-making and long-term planning.
• Support the development and implementation of organisational policies and procedures to ensure good governance.
• Act as a key liaison with the Board of Trustees, preparing and presenting financial and governance reports to inform oversight and decision-making.
• Lead on the development of internal controls and risk management strategies to safeguard the Trust’s assets and reputation.
• Oversee all payments, manage cash flow, income and claims.
• Support financial planning for grant funding applications to support delivery of our objectives.
• Line management of the Administration Officer.
• Renew the annual insurance policy ensuring adequate cover and value for money.
• Maintain, oversee, and update all project management reporting systems on time and to budget (including timesheets, expenses and monthly reports).
• Complete all necessary reports and keep suitable records in line with the funding requirements and document retention policy.
• Highlight any new risks and issues identified whilst carrying out duties, and work with the team to manage and resolve them.
• Fulfil duties as assigned by the Chief Executive Officer.
• Any other reasonable duties as required by MRT.

The post holder will be home based with travel throughout the Mersey catchment. The applicant will need to live within or close to the Mersey catchment to facilitate regular travel to meetings. Remote working from other parts of the country cannot be considered for this role due to the need for regular face-to-face interactions. 

Candidate profile

Essential

• A financial control and reporting background, qualification or qualified by experience. 
• Experience of organisational governance, ideally with knowledge of UK General Accounting Practice and Charities regulations.
• Experience of financial and management reporting within a small to medium-sized organisation.
• Experience of liaising with accountants to prepare annual accounts and reports required by the Charity Commission.
• Experience of cash flow forecasting.
• Familiarity with Xero financial and project management software (or similar).
• A confident and clear communicator with the ability to communicate financial information in an appropriate manner for non-financial trustees and staff.
• Aptitude in problem-solving.
• Self-motivated and able to work effectively from home with strong communication skills and with a high level of accuracy and attention to detail.
• Ability to work flexibly across the working week when necessary.
• Ability to prioritise and plan activities to meet strict deadlines.
• Excellent literacy, numeracy and report-writing skills.
• Excellent presentation and communication skills.
• Strong negotiation and influencing skills.
• Good computer literacy skills (e.g. with Excel, Word, PowerPoint and project reporting systems).
• A reliable team player with good attendance and work performance.
• Ability to set performance objectives and ensure these are achieved.
• Excellent organisational / admin skills and attention to detail.

Desirable

• Experience in financial planning for funding applications.
• Experience of working in the charity or not for profit sector.
• Understanding of small-scale charitable trading.
• Experience of commercial contract management.
• Experience of managing an IT service provider.
• Knowledge of the Mersey Catchment.
• Good network of contacts in the sector. 

General notes

• Some travel around the Mersey Catchment will be necessary therefore a current driving licence and access to a vehicle (insured for business use) is desirable or otherwise access to public transport networks. 
• This position will from time to time require work during some evenings, weekends and public holidays to meet the needs of the post. A time-off in lieu system is operated by the Trust.
• We will also require the successfully applicant to undergo a basic DBS check and provide satisfactory references from previous employers.

Banana Link is a UK based NGO established in 1996. We have been advocating for a fair and sustainable banana industry for thirty years, based on environmental, social and economic sustainability. Our approach is underpinned by a firm commitment to defending workers’ rights, at the core of these rights is the right to a fair and decent income that affords a dignified life for men and women banana plantation workers. We work at a strategic level and through research, advocacy and dialogue with all actors along the chain to bring about change.

This role will support the management and delivery our current work stream on Living Wages in the African Banana Export Industry. Initial activities will be delivered in Ghana and Cameroon, in collaboration with our local and international trade union partners, local producing companies, and European retailers. Key project activities include: 

- Facilitation of capacity building activities on Living Wages and Decent Work in Cameroon and Ghana, with company staff and trade union representatives.
- Communication and dialogue between all project partners and other industry stakeholders towards fair remuneration and decent work in the banana industry. 
- Monitoring, evaluation, and reporting on all project activities to funders Ghana, with company staff and trade union representatives.
- Communication and dialogue between all project partners and other industry stakeholders towards fair remuneration and decent work in the banana industry
- Monitoring, evaluation, and reporting on all project activities to funders

The role will provide an important opportunity to work alongside Banana Link’s International Coordinator, and in collaboration with other key staff and partner organisations, on the important issues of Living Wages, Decent Work, Social Dialogue and Sustainability.

UK-based/ Colchester or Home-based with monthly travel to Colchester office. Overseas travel with trips lasting from 10-14 days. 

This post requires the candidates to have independent rights to live and work in the UK

Background

Lepra is dedicated to addressing leprosy and lymphatic filariasis (LF) and their consequences through direct support, advocacy, and the promotion of inclusive communities. We work in Bangladesh and in India, through our sister organisation, LEPRA Society. We work in partnership with people affected by leprosy and LF to improve detection, ensure access to treatment and care, and promote inclusion and wellbeing. Last year we finalised our new Global Strategy for 2024-30, which will guide us in our efforts to accelerate progress towards global targets for leprosy and LF, and towards our vision of a world free from leprosy and LF.

Job Context

Our Global Strategy marks a significant evolution in our organisational direction, introducing innovative approaches and renewed priorities. This includes our first-ever global Theory of Change (ToC), our most comprehensive Monitoring, Evaluation, Accountability and Learning (MEAL) framework to date, a Research and Innovation strategy, and a dedicated Advocacy sub-strategy to guide our influencing efforts.

With the Lepra Advocacy Strategy, we will be working over the next 6 years to strengthen our approaches to our advocacy efforts. The post holder will play a key role in supporting the roll out of the Advocacy strategy working closely with the Director of Programmes and Advocacy, the Head of Research, the Senior Programme Manager, the Programme Officer and the teams where we work.

Job Purpose

This role is an exciting role within the programmes team in response to evolving needs. The incoming post holder will work within the 5 person UK’s Programme and Advocacy team and will drive, advise and support the team in relation to Lepra’s advocacy profile. We are looking for an enthusiastic, motivated, strategic and creative person who has outstanding skills to engage and work with a diverse team. We are looking for someone to work with a clear strategy and then develop, grow and successfully shape the future of Lepra’s advocacy efforts.

Working Relationships

Reports to Lepra UK’s Director of Programmes and Advocacy (DPA)

Works closely with the Programmes and Advocacy Team

Close working links with colleagues in India and in Bangladesh and the UK’s communications team

International travel as needed for programmes oversight and support, and external representation.

Key responsibilities

Advocacy Delivery (50%)

Under the supervision of the DPA implement Lepra’s global Advocacy strategy and coordinate advocacy initiatives.

Serve as the driver of advocacy efforts, facilitating the transitional year of implementation including coordinating the Advocacy Steering Group; advocacy toolkit development; action planning.

Represent Lepra in specific fora and advocacy networks and within the broader leprosy and NTD community in close coordination with the DPA.

Produce quarterly advocacy newsletters

Maintain quarterly reports on flagging areas of concern and actioning steering committee advice.

Assist in the preparation of policy documents and the presentation of papers for publication, conferences, or specific institutions and/or individuals - identifying and targeting the most appropriate audiences.

Support and contribute to the development and implementation of initiatives that foster an inclusive, equitable, and diverse environment across organisational programmes, policies, and advocacy efforts.

Support and contribute to initiatives that promote inclusion and equity, with a strong focus on developing the leadership and advocacy capacity of people with lived experience of leprosy, ensuring their voices are central in decision-making and programme design.

Knowledge management / Learning and Development (20%)

Support the preparation of Lepra advocacy and policy documents.

Disseminate knowledge so that it is integrated into Lepra’s portfolio to amplify the impact for target audiences and improve their outcomes.

Facilitate the new knowledge and learning hub and forge a clear path for its evolution.

Facilitate knowledge sharing through updating the communications team with relevant materials for the new programme folder on the website.

Organise and develop advocacy training.

Develop and take ownership of the new programme’ s team knowledge sharing approaches.

Develop a workplan of knowledge sharing events. 

Support annual review meetings.

Communications (10%)

Assist the programmes team with the documentation of Lepra examples and models of best practice, at the same time identifying and developing mechanisms and avenues for the effective dissemination of this knowledge – internally and externally.

Assist the programmes team, DPO, Chief Executive and Country Programme staff in the synthesis of complex technical/scientific information adapting it to language and formats easily used by target audiences.

Contribute to content development of community engagement materials (public information, brochures, leaflets) that help explain the operations and impact of Lepra’s work to LF and/or leprosy affected communities.

Maintain good working links with Lepra’s UK Fundraising and Communications Team, contributing towards UK facing communications materials as and when required.

Prepare updates, papers, and reports for trustee meetings, funding partners, and wherever else applicable.

External representation (10%)

Support the Chief Executive, DPA and programmes team to maintain and expand existing strategic relationships with key international stakeholders to further Lepra’s advocacy strategy and advance Lepra’s agenda.

Ensure Lepra’s external profile is raised and become the go-to organisation for the leprosy community in terms of advocacy and policy briefings.

Support the preparation of documents for presentation, publication or dissemination at international fora.

Develop/support the development of country specific briefing notes/press kits with the communications team.

Represent Lepra at key events, conferences, and meetings to enhance our visibility and opportunity for impact.

Safeguarding (5%)

Promote a culture of respect, transparency, and accountability within Lepra’s implemented projects.

Ensuring that safeguarding mechanisms are in place and remain at the heart of all activities.

Support the integration of strong safeguarding and PSEA practices into project design and delivery.

Monitoring, evaluation, and impact (5%)

Ensure that all advocacy and knowledge transfer efforts are captured and embedded in appropriate results frameworks, objectives, outputs, indicators and Key Performance Indicators (KPIs). Provide inputs to Lepra’s reports, according to Lepra’s needs.

Person Specification

Qualifications

Essential

Relevant degree level of education in Public Health, Social Sciences, Global Health, Human Rights, Political Sciences or equivalent experience.

Desirable

Relevant post-graduate qualification

Relevant professional health-related qualification

Knowledge and Experience

Essential

Minimum of 2 yrs experience of advocacy/campaigning/policy work with an overseas development organisation

Experience of working to advance the rights of excluded populations

Extensive knowledge of global health issues and an up-to-date familiarity with issues and practice in the international development sector

Experience in planning and implementing successful strategies/campaigns/advocacy in Asia.

Experience in programme/project planning, budgeting, M&E and reporting, within a non-governmental organisation, including the preparation of reports for institutional donors.

Ability to analyse and act on data.

Experience of working on issues in relation to disability, mental health, gender, human rights and social inclusion.

Experience in project coordination and management.

Desirable

At least two years’ experience as an advocacy manager, preferably gained with an overseas development organisation or in academia, in a similar health focused role.

Familiarity with data visualisation tools and packages.

Proficiency in one or more Indian languages (e.g., Hindi, Tamil, Bengali, Telugu, etc.) is an asset.

Skills, Attitudes and Personal Qualities

Highly motivated individual with excellent interpersonal and communication skills, both written and verbal to build strong relationships, negotiate and persuade a wide range of audiences, with confidence at presenting and representing.

Proven strength in both written and verbal communication

Able to reach, network with and communicate to a wide range of stakeholders and potential stakeholders.

Excellent attention to detail, and organisational and time management skills

Ability to manipulate and analyse data to draw useful conclusions to improve programme delivery.

Ability to use databases, Word, excel, PowerPoint and other Office packages

Ability to work independently, be flexible and prioritise workload.

Ability to travel within the UK and overseas.

The right to work in the UK.

We operate a non-bias recruitment process and run our job advertisements through anonymous recruitment methods.

We offer a lot of flexibility in working practices and there is free reserved parking available at our Colchester office. We also offer 26 days annual leave plus public holidays (pro-rated), pension, Employee Assistance Programme and support from an in-house well-being team.

Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted and invited for interview. Please check your email inbox and spam/junk mail folder for any email correspondence for this vacancy.

If you require any reasonable considerations such as access or information in an alternative format, please inform us soon as you are able so that we can make the appropriate adjustments.

Please do not use AI to help you write cover letters, CVs and responses to any screening questions.  We want to hear your original voice.