Auditor Jobs in Bethnal Green, Greater London
BENEFITS
28 days holiday + Bank Holidays
Life Assurance x4 of basic salary
Income protection scheme
8% employer contribution pension scheme
Flexibility
JOB PURPOSE
The Head of Finance will lead a small, established finance team and will need to drive a successful business partnership approach with teams across the organisation, achieving greater efficiency both in ways of working and in purchasing and in investigating how our systems and technology can best meet our operational needs. This role is pivotal in the charity, and a great opportunity for an exceptional finance professional to contribute to the continuous improvement of the charity, finance function and team. You will take day to day responsibility for financial accounting, the provision of management information and will actively manage financial planning and forecasting. You will also input into strategy on a functional and organisational level.
A track record in successful business partnering is essential as we develop and refine our business model. Previous experience in a management information function, either within the not-for-profit sector or a similar sized commercial organisation, is needed. You will need to liaise closely with non-finance staff to ensure financial information is made meaningful and accessible and to support training to enable them to interpret the information provided and manage their budgets. Good communication skills and the ability to explain complex information to staff at varying levels are therefore essential as is the ability to provide leadership and motivate staff.
We have exciting organisational goals for the year ahead, including a review of our Finance system and an opportunity for the finance team to drive improvements to our processes and ensure we make best use of technology to drive efficiency and add value to our stakeholders. We are a small team in a small organisation with big ambition and offer a unique opportunity for development in your finance career.
WHO WE ARE AND WHAT WE DO
United Kingdom for UNHCR is the United Nations Refugee Agency’s national charity partner for the United Kingdom. We generate public awareness of the plight of refugees and raise funds to help protect them through UNHCR’s humanitarian operations across the world.
Our supporters include UK private individuals, communities, corporate partners, trusts and foundations. The funds we raise help UNHCR deliver emergency relief such as shelter, medical care and basic supplies to people fleeing conflict and persecution, as well as healthcare, education and livelihoods opportunities for those who remain displaced over the long term.
Nobody chooses to be a refugee, but we can all play a part in their protection, and we want those who work with us to share our values and passion for the cause.
DIVERSITY, EQUITY, INCLUSION AND BELONGING
We strongly value diversity and recognise that it is critical to our success and the cause that we serve. We are committed to providing an inclusive environment for all who work with us and strongly welcome applications from diverse backgrounds, particularly those with lived experience of being a refugee, asylum seeker, internally displaced person, or a stateless person.
UK for UNHCR is proud to have Diversity & Inclusion Working Group. The Diversity & Inclusion Working Group is a group of colleagues focusing on tasks that drive action in the implementation of our D&I Approach. The group also works to create safe spaces that brings colleagues together for events, discussions and learning experiences that celebrate and support diversity and tackle barriers to inclusion.
We are also open to flexibility in many different ways, including an element of working from home and flexible hours. Please don’t be afraid to speak to us about this at the interview stage, so we can explore what’s possible.
ROLE AND RESPONSIBILITIES
This is a diverse role across the full spectrum of the finance function, with the post holder responsible for the timely provision of management information as well as leading the Finance Team in delivering a full financial accounting and statutory reporting service to ensure UK for UNHCR is compliant with all financial regulation. Central to the role is the critical review and the effective communication of financial information and its implications to all levels of management while also delivering a high quality, customer focused finance partnering service to senior managers and SMT.
Key accountabilities:
- Oversee the provision of clear, accurate, timely and user friendly (financial and non-financial) management information to Directors, senior managers and staff to support the decision-making process and to allow managers to proactively manage their budgets.
- Take full management responsibility for the Finance Manager and Finance and Administration Assistant, leading, motivating and developing them so that that they are clearly focused, competent, and work effectively and efficiently.
- Ensure compliance with relevant legislation and prepare statutory accounts, corporation tax, Gift Aid, VAT, Charity Commission and other statutory financial returns for the charity and its trading subsidiary as appropriate.
- Manage the annual audit process, being the point of contact for external auditors on operational matters relating to the audit process and providing information and documentation supporting the annual report and accounts.
- Develop and maintain various business and financial planning processes in support of the strategic needs of the organisation. This includes:
- Annual budgeting process.
- Overseeing financial reforecasts at regular (currently quarterly) intervals.
- Playing an active role in the broader business planning process.
- Planning and managing cash flows to meet the short and long-term needs of the organisation, maximising interest receivable where opportunities allow.
- Drive financial ownership, accountability and understanding across the organisation by ensuring budget owners have the knowledge, skills and tools to manage their budgets effectively. Ensure effective financial business partnering is underpinned by effective processes and guidance.
- Provide support to all teams and in particular the fundraising teams in the completion of funding applications and, following successful bids, ensuring appropriate processes are in place to monitor and report progress of Restricted Funding projects.
- Recommend an appropriate reporting process and format for restricted projects to enable their effective management by budget holders and for inclusion in management accounts reporting.
- Ensure the internal financial control environment is adequate to safeguard the Charity’s assets and is properly documented, and liaise as needed with external professional advisors, such as auditors and our bankers.
- Ensure premises and facilities are managed appropriately on a day-to-day basis, line managing the Finance and Administration Assistant, and taking the lead in matters relating to property leases.
- Develop own knowledge base and keep abreast of changes in the regulatory and financial environment, as well as new initiatives and best practice in the sector to ensure the charity’s policies and processes are fit for purpose and adapt as UK for UNHCR evolves.
- Support the Senior Management Team in other work as may be required from time to time and, as time allows, engage in the broader work of the charity to ensure the post holder has a recognisable profile as the leader of a key team and has an understanding of the work we do.
The above list is not exhaustive, and the post holder may be required to perform duties that are not detailed above.
PERSONAL ATTRIBUTES AND EXPERIENCE
Knowledge:
- A qualified accountant (ACA, ACCA, CIMA, CIPFA) with significant post qualification finance experience at a senior level.
Skills:
- Track record of success at a senior level within an organisation of comparable size and complexity, including hands on experience in delivering a bespoke finance service.
- Proven ability to communicate successfully with different stakeholders, both written and verbal, and including the ability to influence and negotiate.
- Ability to critically review, analyse and interpret complex financial and management information and present it clearly and appropriately to different audiences.
- Comfortable in dealing with detail as required given the constraints of working in a small team.
- Confident with a range of IT software, including hands on experience in managing, using and configuring accounting packages.
- Experience of software implementation, and ideally of accounting systems.
- Strong leadership skills including the ability to motivate and develop staff members.
- Knowledge of the legislative, tax and regulatory framework of companies, ideally in the not-for-profit sector.
- Track record in successful project management.
- Ability to identify, assess and manage risks and make recommendations based on objective criteria.
- Team player able to establish productive working relationships with both colleagues and externally.
- Strategic thinker who is pro-active in identifying opportunities for the organisation, and within the finance function for improvements in business process.
Experience:
- Relevant post-qualification experience, to include managing a finance team.
- Experience of developing and implementing financial procedures and controls.
- Experience of commercial or charity accounting including the preparation of statutory accounts and preferably SORP compliance.
- Experience of preparing management accounts in a rigorous environment.
- Experience of managing the preparation of budgets and business plans.
- Experience of VAT accounting, preferably the partial exemption basis and corporation tax.
WHY JOIN UNITED KINGDOM FOR UNHCR?
You will be part of a high performing agile team of talented people, all committed to build solidarity and raise funds for refugees and displaced people worldwide. You will be working in a flexible, supportive, and inclusive environment, where your work will be recognised and appraised.
What else?
Wellbeing
- 28 days’ leave per annum plus bank holidays.
- Employee Assistance programme providing 24/7 access to online GP, mental health support and virtual wellbeing.
- Access to 100s of perks with discounts on everyday purchases.
- Office wellness perks.
- Discount on gym memberships.
- Hybrid and Flexible Working.
- Staff socials.
Financial
- Pension scheme with an employer contribution of 8%.
- Non-contributory group life assurance scheme
- Non-contributory Income protection scheme.
- One-off contribution towards homeworking set up.
- Enhanced maternity, paternity, shared parental, and adoption pay.
- Enhanced sick pay scheme.
Development
- Comprehensive training and continuing development opportunities.
- Individual training budget.
HOW TO APPLY
If you have the relevant skills and the passion to use them to support refugees, please apply by completing our application form which is available in the documents section.
Closing date: 28th May 2024
Interview dates: Week commencing 3rd June 2024 (first round), w/c 10th June 2024 (second round)
If you would like to discuss any reasonable adjustments to the application or hiring process that may better facilitate your participation, please contact us on the email address on our online portal. We will make every effort to respond to your request for assistance as soon as possible.
United Kingdom for the UN Refugee Agency (UNHCR) is registered with the Charity Commission (England & Wales), charity no. 1183415. It is the UK national partner of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), the UN Refugee Agency.
We stand with refugees – will you join us?
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as the applications come in. Don’t miss your opportunity, apply now!
Are you passionate about driving ethical governance and risk management within a values-driven environment? A fantastic opportunity has arisen to join us at LHC Procurement Group as the Group Governance & Risk Manager and lead the charge in ensuring our organisation operates at the highest standards of integrity and compliance.
What you will be doing:
- Lead the review and application of the Group’s governance requirements under the direction of the Board and Group Managing Director.
- Serve as a focal point for LHC governance, supporting the Board in discharging its duties compliantly and professionally.
- Conduct regular assessments of the effectiveness of governance committees and risk management strategies.
- Oversee the risk and quality management functions, ensuring proactive mitigation of business risks.
- Develop and manage assurance frameworks, audit arrangements, and Board induction processes.
- Coordinate submissions to regulatory bodies and ensure compliance with relevant laws and standards.
What you need:
- Experience in facilitating good governance within a regulated environment, preferably within housing, charity, or not-for-profit sectors.
- Understanding of governance models, legal requirements, and best practices in corporate governance.
- Strong organisational, interpersonal, and communication skills.
- Ability to work with confidential information and deliver under pressure.
- Degree in a relevant subject or equivalent experience; Governance qualification is desirable.
- Proficiency in IT systems, including PowerPoint, Word, and Excel.
What You'll Get:
- Basic salary on POC starting at £52,032 (inc LW).
- Local Government Pension Scheme (Defined Benefit).
- 34 days holiday plus bank holidays.
- 36-hour week.
- Personal training and development plan.
- Cycle to work scheme.
- Employee Discounts.
If you're ready to make a difference and drive excellence in governance and risk management, we want to hear from you. Apply now and join us in our mission to deliver better buildings and homes that enhance local communities.
Please note that we reserve the right to close this job posting before the application deadline if a suitable candidate is identified. Therefore, don’t miss out on this chance. Apply today!
We improve lives and places through the impact of our products & services and social value generated through our community benefit funding & activity
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as the applications come in. Don’t miss your opportunity, apply now!
These unique and rewarding freelance audit opportunities would suit experienced experienced audit professionals that are flexible, love diverse travel experiences, supporting worthwhile causes and inspiring people. AfID is recruiting on behalf of a leading specialist in international NGO grant audit services for development donors such as the UN and the World Bank. Assignments would suit experienced qualified audit professionals with grant audit / management experience, ideally in a not-for-profit/ international development context
Role overview.
Complete international grant expenditure audits for a diverse range of projects (grant recipients) funded by international donor institutions ranging from emergency aid, to long term development in areas such as agriculture, health or infrastructure or technical research. Assignments are 1-3 weeks in length and based across the European mainland and the developing world. These are offered on an assignment by assignment basis, one to two months in advance.
Contractors can be based outside the UK
Requirements
- Qualified ACA / ACCA or equivalent – 5+ years post qualified experience
- Grant management and audit and reporting experience with international institutions. Preference given to individuals that have worked on UN or EC grant assurance assignments
- Diplomacy and cultural sensitivity while working with a hugely diverse range of clients and beneficiaries
- A real interest in international development and associated funding structures
- Ideally but not essential fluency in a second language such as Spanish, German, French, Arabic & Portugese
- Excellent communication, report writing and presentation skills in English.
- Resilience and adaptability
Personal attributes:
- At least 5-10+ years of relevant audit experience
- Ability to work under pressure; Strong planning, organisational and time management skills
- Sound technical and analytical skills, report writing and presentation skills
Passionate about international travel and development and willing to work in international locations. Individual must be prepared to travel to challenging locations when it is deemed safe to do so. Individuals must also be able to demonstrate effective past working practices when working remotely with a range of clients.
ABOUT THE ROLE
We have an exciting opportunity for a Head of Compliance, Risk and Audit to join the wider Compliance, Audit and Risk team at SIG! You will have the overall responsibility of keeping participants, residents, and staff safe. The team manages the development, monitoring, and reporting of several areas including but not limited to accidents, incidents, and near misses (AINMs), safety reviews, safeguarding, whistleblowing, complaints, policy and procedure, health and safety, internal audit, business continuity planning and data protection.
As The Head of Compliance, Risk and Audit, you are the lynchpin of the wider team, linking strategic vision with solid and accountable implementation. You will be responsible for developing the team in the broad space of compliance as well as in their own areas of specialism, ensuring that a transparent and accountable compliance framework is implemented and embedded in line with regulatory and legislative change.
Working Pattern: 37.5 hours per week, Monday to Friday. At least 2 days per week in central office (Islington) and our services which are in and around London, Brighton & Hove, Kent, Havering, Bedford, Luton, Nottingham, and Liverpool.
The additional 3 days can be worked from home. You may at times be required to visit a service more than 2 times within a week.
Our Central Office is based a 10 minute walk from Highbury and Islington station, Angel station is a 15 minute walk away
Benefits, including Non-Contractual Perks
- 25 days annual leave, increasing with the length of service
- Training and Development, including access to courses, upskilling, and progression plans
- Medicash includes discount gym memberships, routine optometry care, dental treatments, and physiotherapy treatments
- Employee Assistance Programme, including counselling
- Reflective Practice regular sessions with a therapist provided by an external provider to support Mental Health and Wellbeing.
- Life Assurance Scheme
- Cycle-to-work scheme
- Annual Staff Awards
ABOUT YOU
We're looking for someone who is methodical and detail oriented in their approach, who is a compassionate leader, able to set an example of our values (Ambition, Empowerment, Transparency, Inclusivity). You will have an in-depth and broad knowledge of all areas of compliance, with a background in health, social care or housing. You will be required to have excellent report writing skills, with the ability to coach and support others, able to influence a process led culture in respect to your area, and a keen interest in continuous improvement of services and a positive safety culture!
OVERVIEW OF KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
- Line Management and leadership throughout employee lifecycle this includes; Recruitment, Onboarding, Inductions, training, support and supervision, relations, wellbeing support, and other areas.
- Formalise Key Performance Indicators (KPI’s) and Service Level Agreements (SLA’s) to monitor objectives.
- Provide both line management and professional consulting using best available forums and mechanisms, including meetings, support effective teamwork and communication. Facilitate a culture where constructive challenge is welcomed, and conflict is managed supportively in line with relevant policies and procedures.
- Deputise for the Director as required.
Safeguarding, Audit, and Compliance
- Oversee the compliance audits across departments and services, providing support, and follow up with operational teams on a regular basis.
- Oversee the Safeguarding infrastructure, deputising for the designated safeguarding lead (DSL) as necessary. Oversee complaints and other processes and develop these to ensure they are safe, fair, equitable, and fit for purpose.
- Support services with commissioner led quality assurance framework (QAF) inspections and those registered with the CQC to maintain their portfolios and ensure they are ready for inspection at any time to retain their registrations.
- Promote and support a positive whistleblowing culture, assist Champions, People and Culture, managers and the audit and compliance team on concerns raised and ensuring the whistleblower is protected.
Reporting and Analysis
- Attend and develop AINMs review meetings for maximum impact in terms of positive safety culture. Ensure the lessons learned from AINMs reviews, safety reviews, and safeguarding concerns are shared and feedback loops are closed.
- Review the collation and analysis of AINMs and Safeguarding alerts, developing the Audit and Compliance team, as well as other operational teams in reflection and root cause analysis
Data Protection
- Monitor the use of external data protection and compliance partners to ensure we maintain ICO requirements and maintain our Data Security Protection Toolkit Certification.
- Monitor and ensure integrity in document control, policy, and procedures as they are developed, reviewed, and published.
- Understand and support an Information Security infrastructure alongside additional teams in the organisation and support Managers and teams with training and challenges where necessary.
Other responsibilities than those described above may be required to be undertaken from time to time and will be expected to be performed to as long as it is within the capability and level of the position. Please refer to JDPS attached for more info
KEY CRITERIA
What we are looking for:
- Proven experience in complaints and incident handling, safeguarding, data protection, and audits
- Proven experience in governance systems and structures which can include auditing, risk management, investigations, complaint handling, policy, procedure, and report writing
- Experience and/or ability to coach, develop, and manage direct reports
- Background in health, social care, criminal justice, and/or supported housing systems
- IT Proficiency, ability to learn new software programs, and ability to confidently use and utilise Microsoft programs
- Adequate understanding of the importance and mechanics of document control and writing policy and procedure
- Working knowledge of health and safety processes and procedures
- Ability to write reports in a clear, readable format
What we would like, but not essential:
- Knowledge of the ISO9001 QMS System
Please refer to the JDPS attached for more details on the vacancy and our requirements/key criteria.
WORKING FOR US
ABOUT US
Social Interest Group (SIG) believes good care and support improve lives. Our values of ambition, empowerment, transparency, and inclusivity drive everything we do. Our mission is to empower people who are marginalised by building powerful partnerships and creative solutions that bridge gaps in provision and aid recovery, reablement and resettlement.
SIG is a not-for-profit organisation providing thousands of people with good-quality support and care in residential, drop-in centres, community floating support settings (including people's own homes), probation settings, and hospitals awaiting discharge. We do so across London, Brighton, Bedfordshire, Luton, and Kent. We believe in the power of well-planned, well-managed services to make a difference. We work with high standards and external and internal regulatory frameworks.
Want to know how we work? Watch our short Theory of Change video to see how we support people towards a brighter future: Theory of Change
Further details can be found on our website here: Theory of Change - Social Interest Group - Social Interest Group.
Our Values
Ambition – Eager to succeed and to accomplish as much as possible for our people
Empowerment – Giving staff and the people we support the tools, training, and information they need to achieve their potential
Transparency – Upfront and visible about our actions and open to scrutiny from stakeholders, service users, and staff
Inclusivity – Listening to, understanding, and including all our stakeholders to ensure we make a difference and get things right
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
Please note that this job advert may close early due to screening applications on an ongoing basis. We advise applying as soon as possible for your application to be taken into consideration at the early stages.
Additional information on our company policies including Gender Pay, Equality and Diversity, Company Benefits and our Candidate Privacy Policy can be found on our website.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as the applications come in. Don’t miss your opportunity, apply now!
Leading international development grant assurance specialists seek experienced French speaking audit professional for exciting management opportunities.
Responsibilities
• Travelling internationally to a wide range of locations, on a regular basis, conducting audits or special assignments; working with, and supporting NGOs, public sector organisations & institutional donors such as the UN.
• Demonstrate a detailed knowledge of public sector audit issues and techniques and provide guidance to other team members based on previous experience;
• Demonstrate a detailed understanding of public sector structures and the legal and contractual frameworks in which the assignments are performed and provide guidance to other team members based on previous experience;
• Demonstrate a detailed understanding of International Standards on Auditing (ISAs) and provide guidance to other team members based on previous experience;
• Be involved in the assignment process from planning to finalisation;
Prepare a tailored plan for large or complex assignments based on an understanding of the terms of reference;
• Lead assignment fieldwork teams including locally based staff for large or complex assignments;
• Demonstrate the ability to identify the findings on an assignment and write them up in a detailed, precise and clear way in the assignment report;
• Lead opening meetings and present the audit findings at closing meetings;
• Conduct assignments in a sceptical but constructive manner;
• Draft a report for each assignment on a timely basis;
• Be responsible for completing the audit programme and audit file;
• Be aware of assignment deadlines and work with the team to ensure deadlines are met;
• Monitor the time spent on assignments against budget and discuss with the Manager if budget overruns are anticipated;
• Prepare proposals for specific assignments within a framework contract
• Contribute to drafting tenders;
• Identify potential opportunities for obtaining new work. Take action to follow up such
opportunities with a manager/partner;
• Develop internal contacts and demonstrate an awareness of the services offered by other
departments in the firm;
Internal development
• Provide on the job training and guidance to more junior team members throughout the
assignment process;
• Contribute to office-based training sessions including development of training material;
• Conduct induction training for new staff members;
• Do job appraisals for more junior team members;
• Check that the staff planner is kept up to date for each assignment;
Please note, if you are not a fluent French speaker similar opportunities may be availabe - so please apply.
The Task Ahead: Finance Manager
As The Difference moves from its early start-up phase into the delivery of our 2025-30 strategy, our programmes and sector-influencing work are expanding to reach more schools and to deepen our impact. Alongside this growth, our team - and the operational function which supports them - is also growing.
As Finance Manager, you will be a key member of the Finance & Operations team. You will hold end-to-end responsibility for the finance function, from reconciliations to budgeting. You will decide where and how our existing processes could be improved, as well as developing new systems that will underpin our work as a larger and more established charity. You will be supported by the Director of People, Finance & Operations, as well as our external auditors.
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 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!
Areas of Responsibility
The Difference is looking for a Finance Manager to lead our finance function in the following ways:
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Oversee our internal bookkeeping, payment, and accounting processes, and improve these systems ongoingly.
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Lead on budgeting and forecasting across the organisation, supporting teams to predict income and expenditure and make sound financial decisions.
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Lead on the production of management accounting information, including internal monthly management accounts, quarterly reports for Trustees, and financial reports for investors.
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Lead on The Difference’s audit process, with external auditors.
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Work with the Development & Impact Manager to update fundraising pipelines, and ensure the availability of high quality income projections for Trustees.
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Support accurate budgeting and reporting for grant funding, including tracking spend of restricted funds.
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Support business planning by working with teams to model potential future work - e.g. costs of expansion of an existing programme; modelling potential new programmes.
Person Specification
Essential – We are looking for the following skills, aptitude and experience; though you may be stronger in some areas than others:
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Values – Your experience evidences shared values with The Difference (see below) and a personal commitment to our mission to improve life outcomes for vulnerable people.
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Finance experience, operational and strategic – Experience across all areas of finance, from accurate invoicing, payments and record-keeping, through to setting and managing budgets, financial modelling and forecasting, and working with external accountants or auditors.
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Finance process development – Experience of developing finance systems; the ability to recognise how processes could be continuously improved, and enact this improvement.
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Leadership of self and others – Confident in identifying skills or information gaps within your team, and drawing on the expertise of others to address these gaps. Able to show how you've continually grown your own skills and those of your team members so that together you can efficiently cover workload and plan ahead.
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Proactive problem-solving – Ability to thrive in a fast-paced start-up environment and to problem-solve: from rolling sleeves up and diving into detail to working collaboratively to build capacity.
Desired – You are more likely to be successful in your application if you have one or more of the following additional experiences:
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Accounting qualification and experience - Some form of accounting qualification and post-qualification experience.
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Early-stage charity/social enterprise experience – You may have specific experience growing charities or businesses for social good at the early or start-up phase.
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Experience of charity finances – You may have worked for or supported other charities, and have experience of working with philanthropic grants, charity accounting, and governance.
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Insight into schools – You may have experience working in the education sector, whether that’s through working for a business or charities that partnered with schools, or through working in a school yourself.
Why Work for The Difference?
Schooling isn’t working for the children who need it most. Every week in England 109 children – equivalent to three full classrooms – are permanently excluded. This is just the tip of the iceberg. Since the pandemic, school suspensions have risen significantly, as has persistent absenteeism. 1 in 5 children are missing more than 10% of their time in school. Children who are excluded or persistently absent are much more likely to already be experiencing vulnerability or disadvantage. They are more likely to live in poverty, have additional learning needs, suffer mental health challenges, or experience a lack of safety outside school. Certain ethnicities are also disproportionately affected, notably Gypsy Roma Traveller and black Caribbean children.
Exclusion and high rates of absence can have a dramatic effect on life chances. These young people are more likely to drop out of education or employment, become vulnerable to long-term mental ill health, or be at risk of criminal exploitation. The Difference believes that children and young people deserve better and that the education system has to change.
Our Organisation
The Difference is a young education charity, founded to change the story on lost learning. By 2030, we want rates of exclusion and absence to be falling nationally and for schools to be better equipped to support all children, including those who may be vulnerable. The Difference was born out of a year of research into school exclusions with think-tank IPPR. This research identified a lack of inclusion expertise in schools and proposed a new leadership development programme to fill this gap. In 2018, Difference founder Kiran hired the team who took this idea from concept to reality, beginning work with our first schools.
The Difference is now a 22-strong team delivering multiple school leadership programmes, alongside a growing research and policy arm. The team is supported by our Youth Advisory Board, made up of young people who have experienced exclusion and who provide their expertise and insights on how school inclusion work should be done. This work is needed more than ever. Effects of COVID-19, coupled with the spiralling cost of living, have substantially increased levels of vulnerability. Schools serving excluded pupils face under-funding. The Difference has had excellent early impact but there is work ahead to capture this, share learning with schools and policy-makers, and grow our capacity to lower exclusions across England.
Our Values
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High Expectations - We are ambitious for excellence from young people, colleagues and ourselves. We don’t believe in writing off someone’s potential because of their identity or experience of crisis.
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Strong Relationships - We prioritise genuine relationships over transactional interactions, and know that this requires deliberate relational practice. We see colleagues and partners as people first and their roles second; and know this greater trust allows us to take more risks, gain more feedback and have greater impact.
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Internalised Locus of Control - We work hard to reframe difficult situations to discover what we have within our power in terms of solutions. We take it upon ourselves to walk towards challenges and can take a high level of ownership and agency in our work/
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Pragmatism - We believe leadership means recognising current limitations and striving for improvements within and beyond them. We develop consensus and chart new ways forward, challenging false and extreme positions like “zero exclusions” or “no excuses”.
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Scientific approach - We take a diagnostic approach to unpicking causes of problems. We are loud and proud of our failures, recognising failing fast and often is key to finding the best solutions. We test solutions and are willing to use data and feedback to make adjustments and choose new directions.
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Not Squeamish about Structural Inequality - We believe patterns of inequality can and should be disrupted. We strive to be clear-eyed about these inequalities, and both the individual practice and system-changes required to address them. We push ourselves to overcome awkwardness in talking about this; and begin by acknowledging our own biases and blind spots.
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Asset-based - We work hard to avoid deficit thinking and aim to start with what’s strong, not what’s wrong. We are careful not to frame our colleagues and stakeholders - particularly young people and families – as victims but instead to recognise their agency.
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Wise selves - To both enjoy work and do their best, we want to make decisions and work with others in our “wise” - or regulated - selves. We also want to bring our compassionate self to those we work with, externally and internally, to support one another through challenging times.
How To Apply
To apply, please complete all sections of the application form by midnight on Sunday 19th May.
First round interviews will be held during the week beginning 27th May, over video call. Please indicate if you would not be available to attend an interview during this week.
If successful in this stage, second round interviews (including a task to be completed the same day) will take place on the week beginning 3rd June, at our office in Bethnal Green.
We are committed to building a diverse team and strongly encourage applications from under-represented groups in the charity sector such as people from black, Asian and minority ethnic backgrounds, LGBTQ+ people, people with disabilities, people with experience in the care system, non-graduates and first-in-family graduates.
As part of our commitment to fairer recruitment, all applications will be assessed with names and any protected characteristics redacted.
Recommended Reading
If you’d like to understand more about The Difference and what we are trying to achieve, we would recommend the following:
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The research which underpins our organisation.
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Our latest Impact Report, sharing our work in 2023
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Ivy Rock Partners are pleased to be working with an outstanding Multi Academy Trust to recruit a Financial Accountant to join their team, reporting to the Financial Controller on a 12 month fixed term contract.
They are looking for someone to work with the Audit Lead and the Financial Controller support the delivery of the Audit and ensure financial statements are prepared for both internal and external consumption.
This is a hybrid role working 3 days in their office based in East Croydon.
This role would be perfect for someone who is passionate about developing their skills in an excellent organisation.
Main responsibilities:
- Prepare balance sheet control accounts.
- Consolidate all grant income remittances for Government income.
- Prepare monthly income and balance sheet reconciliations.
- Ensure bank reconciliations are completed.
- Provide support on reconciling Fixed assets registers for all schools and head office.
- Create audit packs for auditors and work on queries from the auditors
You will:
- Be fully qualified
- Be experienced in production of month end accounts.
- Have strong reconciliation and data analysis skills.
- Experienced in preparing month end journals, including departmental recharges
- Have strong excel skills and experience of using a variety of software packages to generate reports
- Have excellent analytical and communication skills.
- Have a professional "cando" attitude and work ethic
- Have excellent time management skills
Experience of the education sector is desirable but not essential.
For more information on this role please contact Megan Hunter
An exciting opportunity has arisen for a Risk & Assurance Manager to join our Audit, Risk & Governance Team. This role will require the successful candidate to support to the Head of Audit, Risk & Governance in the implementation and oversight of effective risk management and assurance policies and procedures for the whole organisation.
Role Requirements
You will attend the Audit & Risk Committee and other board committees from time to time to present on risk and assurance. With experience of delivering 2nd line risk and assurance activities within large, complex or heavily regulated organisation, you will be effective in building professional relationships and influencing and collaborating with colleagues from all disciplines and at all levels.
You will need to engage effectively with frontline and support colleagues to really understand the needs of our beneficiaries and the risks to the charity more broadly. The ultimate objective of risk management at The Children’s Trust is to ensure the charity continues to deliver high-quality, safe and effective and financially sustainable services for vulnerable children now and in the longer-term.
Although the role does not have any formal direct reports, the Risk & Assurance Analyst will have a dotted line into the Risk & Assurance Manager, providing support particularly on business continuity but also on risk management as and when necessary.
With experience of working in a complex environment, across a large and diverse workforce, you will be exceptionally organised with a high-level of attention to detail. You will naturally possess excellent inter-personal skills, and an ability to consult and positively engage with key stakeholders across the organisation.
Terms and Conditions
PLEASE NOTE: The Children's Trust Application Form MUST be completed and submitted, for your application to be considered. As part of the shortlisting process, gaps in employment will be examined and further explored during the interview process.
Strictly no agencies, please.
As we often receive high levels of applicants for our roles, we regret that we will only be able to contact those applicants who are shortlisted for interviews. Therefore, if you have not heard from us within 2 weeks of the closing date, please assume you have not been shortlisted for an interview on this occasion.
About Us
The Children’s Trust is the UK’s leading charity for children with acquired brain injury, providing expert rehabilitation, education, therapy, and care at our national specialist centre in Tadworth, and to children and their families across the UK, via our Brain Injury Community Service.
Boasting a beautiful 24-acre site in Surrey, we are located just outside of London, close to the M25 (accessible via Junction 8, A217 to Tadworth) and easily accessible via National Rail, by way of: Clapham Junction, Sutton, and Epsom.
Staff Benefits
The work we do is highly rewarding, and in addition to an attractive salary, we offer a valuable range of benefits, including, adoption pay, time off for fertility treatment, enhanced paternity leave, paid carers leave, time out days for those experiencing menopause symptoms, time off for gender reassignment.
We also offer additional annual leave days for those with long service, with entitlements ranging from 35 to 41 days (including bank holidays) depending on your length of service.
Other benefits include free on-site parking; a staff shuttle service from Epsom and Sutton train stations to Tadworth Court, subsidised cafeteria, on-site staff accommodation (subject to availability), the ability to retain your NHS pension (where applicable) or the opportunity to join an alternative scheme, and the opportunity to develop your career in a supportive and collaborative environment.
Equal Opportunity Employer
To help us achieve our ambition to give children and young people with brain injury and neurodisability the opportunity to live the best life possible, we want to accurately reflect the UK’s diverse population. We want equity, diversity, and inclusion to be at the heart of everything we do, and our people, services, and culture to reflect the diverse needs of all. Through our diversity and inclusion strategy, we have made a commitment to increase the diversity of our charity and create an inclusive culture. We have networks across the organisation working to ensure that these aims are met - including an LGBTQIA2S+ group, Ethnic Diversity Group, and Spark – our broad EDI group. Read more about our EDI work here. We welcome applications from all who share our ambition regardless of background. We will strive to ensure that any reasonable adjustments are made in respect of interview and working arrangements.
Online Searches
In accordance with statutory safeguarding and child protection guidance, online searches will be conducted for shortlisted candidates before interview. The online searches will be conducted by a person who is independent of the interview and selection process and will focus on relevant information returned via searches of the candidate’s name (and variations thereof). Social media searches will be limited to professional platforms such as LinkedIn. Any concerns relating to suitability for work with children and young people will be forwarded to the interview panel, for discussion during the interview.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as the applications come in. Don’t miss your opportunity, apply now!
Salary £55K pro-rata (£27.5K for 0.5 FTE)
18 month fixed-term contract, with a view to permanency
Part-time (17.5 hours per week)
Are you ready to make a tangible impact on public health? The Infection Prevention Society (IPS) is seeking an experienced Financial Controller on a part-time basis to manage the transition of the financial systems and processes. With 2,400 members, the IPS is dedicated to advancing infection prevention and control (IPC), playing a pivotal role in supporting IPC professionals, promoting best practices, and influencing policy to prevent infections.
The organisation is transitioning away from being a association-management / volunteer-led model to a small secretariat, hiring its first CEO and five other positions, including this most senior finance role. You will lead on the transition process covering all aspects of financial management, to ensure the Society’s financial integrity and sustainability.
Key Responsibilities:
- Manage the financial transition to an in-house model.
- Creating and testing all internal processes.
- Oversee Statutory accounts, budgeting, credit control, financial reporting and compliance.
- Manage payroll and pension scheme implementation.
- Forecasting, budgeting, variance analysis and support with audit.
- Investigate potential new income generation schemes with CEO.
Requirements:
- Accountancy qualification (CIMA, ICAEW, AAT, ACCA, etc.)
- Proven experience in a financial management role, ideally within a membership body, learned society, nfp/charity or public sector.
- Open to part-time role only.
- Knowledge of financial regulations and accounting principles.
- Analytical and strategic mindset.
- Strong comms to train and support non-financial staff.
If you're ready to take on this new and exciting challenge, and help shape the future of infection prevention, we want to hear from you!
Application will be by CV and supporting statement, and a full pack outlining the opportunity is available from our retained consultant, Christian Turek from Memcom Recruitment.
Ambitious about Autism is looking for an experienced and qualified Financial Controller to join the team. Candidates who trained at a top 15 private accountancy firm or equivalent public body, with charity sector experience, are especially encouraged to apply.
The Financial Controller at Ambitious about Autism (AaA) and Ambitious about Autism Schools Trust (AaAST) plays a crucial role in ensuring the accuracy, integrity, and completeness of the organisations' financial data. They are responsible for adhering to the Charities SORP and the Academies Financial Handbook for AaAST.
The primary responsibilities of the Financial Controller include:
- Financial Data Management: Ensuring that all financial data is accurately recorded, maintained, and reported in accordance with relevant accounting standards and guidelines.
- Compliance: Ensuring compliance with statutory and legal obligations related to financial matters. This includes managing tax affairs, including VAT, and ensuring timely and accurate payments.
- Control Environment: Establishing and maintaining a robust control environment to safeguard assets, prevent fraud, and ensure accurate financial reporting. This involves implementing internal controls, conducting regular audits, and addressing any control weaknesses or risks.
- External Scrutiny: Preparing financial reports and statements for external scrutiny, such as audits, regulatory inspections, or funder assessments. The Financial Controller ensures that all financial records and processes can withstand external scrutiny and meet the required standards.
- Finance System Development: Taking responsibility for the development and effective operation of the finance system, IRIS Financials. This includes optimising system functionality, ensuring data accuracy, providing user support and training, and exploring opportunities for process improvements and automation.
- Team management: lead the financial accounting team and ensuring an excellent service is delivered.
In summary, the Financial Controller at AaA and AaAST are responsible for maintaining the accuracy, integrity, and completeness of financial data, ensuring compliance with relevant accounting standards and legal obligations, managing tax affairs, and developing and operating an effective finance system.
In return, we offer great benefits including a generous holiday allowance and commitment to continued professional development (CPD), flexible, hybrid working and more!
This is a fantastic opportunity for an ambitious individual who would like to work for a forward-thinking, open and honest organisation and make a real impact to the young people we work with. Please find our full recruitment pack on the link below.
If you have any questions about the role or would like to have a confidential chat, please contact James Axford, Recruitment Officer.
Ambitious about Autism is fully committed to equality of opportunity and diversity and we warmly welcome applications from all suitably-qualified candidates. We welcome applications regardless of race, colour, nationality, ethnic or national origins, religion or belief, sex, sexual orientation, gender reassignment, marital or civil partner status, pregnancy or maternity, disability, or age. All applications will be considered solely on merit.
Ambitious about Autism is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and successful candidates will be subject to an Enhanced DBS check. As part of our Safer Recruitment checks, an online search maybe carried out in line with Keeping Children Safe in Education.
The Safeguarding responsibilities of the post as per the job description and personal specification.
Whether the post is exempt from the rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 and the amendment to the Exceptions Order 1975, 2013 and 2021. This means that when applying for certain jobs and activities certain spent convictions and cautions are ‘protected', so they do not need to be disclosed to employers, and if they are disclosed, employers cannot take them into account. Further information about filtering offences can be found in the DBS Filter Guidance.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
One of the UK’s largest and highest profile groups of schools is looking to recruit a new Head of Operational Finance - to work from their head office in East Croydon (3 days per week in office). This is a fantastic opportunity to have a real impact with an organisation whose purpose is to make life fairer for children in and around London. Focusing on the most challenging schools and turn them into exceptional places of learning where everyone – staff and students – thrive.
Job Purpose
To manage the internal financial operational processes and reporting for the Federation, ensuring timeliness, accuracy and completeness. To provide financial support and advice to Head Office departments and schools, including the Federation Senior Leadership Team. To provide support to the Financial Controller and Director of Finance as required.
The Federation is going through an exciting period of change and this role represents an excellent opportunity to be part of driving improvements within a large organisation, as part of a compact and high-performing central finance function.
Main Areas of Responsibility
- Oversee all income processing for the schools and federation.
- Oversee all payroll processing for the schools and federation,
- Manage the BACS and manual payment process
- Review central processing for best practice.
- Oversee Balance sheet reconciliation for the schools and federation monthly
- Maintain the finance handbook and other published guidance
- Work with FC and Systems team to implement month end timetable
- Develop and implement a training for Finance Officer’s, Management Accountant’s and Accounts Payable team
- Work with the Financial Controller on producing and reviewing consolidated monthly accounts
- Work with partnership team to incorporate proposed adjustments to Month end and Year end accounts in line with the timetable.
- Prepare all consolidated submissions to the Department for Education
- Prepare year end papers and supporting schedules for head office activities
- Liaise with the Internal Audit team and External auditors
- Assist with various ESFA submissions and audits
- Oversea Reconciliation and review of monthly inter-academy recharges
- Review of monthly journals (e.g. prepayments, deferred income, academy recharges)
- Identify and evaluate opportunities for improving value for money
- Work closely with other departments and Hubs within the central federation such as procurement to ensure that we have clear and smooth processes between departments
- Ad hoc tasks as required by the DF and FC
I am excited to be working with an amazing London based disability charity in search of a Project Accountant on a 6-month FTC. You will be responsible for assisting the Financial Controller with the management and administration of the organisation’s finances.
You will manage a number of business-related and operational systems, processes, procedures and required controls across the organisations group of charities in the delivery of the charity’s services. You will play a key role in the Finance team and will work closely with departmental budget holders and other stakeholders in the organisation, performing a variety of finance tasks from bank reconciliations through to assisting with month end and year end processes and annual audits.
Main duties:
• To assist in the production of the monthly management accounts for the group.
• To process repayments, accruals, intercompany and other relevant month end journals.
• To reconcile Donation income
• To maintain the fixed assets register.
• To prepare Foundation bank reconciliation.
• To assist with the preparation of the annual accounts and liaising with auditors.
• To support the annual budgets cycle in liaison with managers and other budget holders..
• To assist with cash flow forecasting and monitoring.
• To assist with processing & reconciliation of online book sales and VAT returns for the group.
• To manage the organisation mobile phones contract.
• To assist with preparation of accounting records and supporting schedules for audit.
• To manage the Sales Ledgers and credit control function.
• To manage the Purchase Ledger.
• To provide financial information and advice to all staff.
If you have the above skills and experience and are immediately available, please apply online today, I would love to have a conversation with you!
As leading charity recruitment specialists and a certified B Corp™, Harris Hill is committed to high and ever-improving standards of equitable and inclusive recruitment. We actively welcome applications from all sections of the community regardless of age, disability, gender, race, religion, sexuality and other protected characteristics.
About the organisation
The YMCA is a global movement which began in 1844 with Central YMCA. It is now a leading UK education, health and wellbeing charity that transforms lives by breaking down barriers to life-changing opportunities. Central YMCA’s work includes creating alternatives to traditional education such as apprenticeships and study programmes, training fitness professionals who inspire communities, developing qualifications through our awarding organisation and helping people improve their health and wellbeing through the largest gym in central London.
About the role
Reporting to the CFO, the Head of Finance is responsible for leading a team of 5 and overseeing the day-to-day financial management of the charity, supporting and developing its financial strategies. In collaboration with the Charity’s Executive Team, the role is responsible for safeguarding the short, medium and long-term financial health of the organisation. This includes all financial reporting requirements, treasury management (overseeing the organisation's cash and liquidity performance) and the management of the annual budget and financial planning processes. The Head of Finance is also responsible for designing, implementing and maintaining a Management Information (MI) reporting suite which supports the Charity’s operations, commercial development activities and long-term strategies. Lastly, the Head of Finance is tasked with managing the development of the Finance department.
Areas of responsibility will include:
Financial Strategy and Policy
- Support the Charity’s Executive Team with ensuring the short, medium and long term financial health of the organisation
- Collaborate with the Charity’s SMT to prepare business cases and financial models to support new business activities and investment proposals
- Review and update the charities financial policies
- Cultivate a support structure across the organisation where the finance department acts as a trusted business partner for operations and management
Reporting
- Oversee all financial reporting processes for the Charity, ensuring that accurate, timely and relevant information is disseminated across the organisation
- Work with the SMT to identify areas to improve the reporting processes
Statutory Reporting, Audit & Risk
- Manage the Charity’s financial statutory compliance for both audit and regulatory matters and oversee the finance risk register
- Lead the year-end audit process, including the preparation of audit schedules, reconciliations and acting as a key point of contact for the auditors
- Prepare the financial disclosures sections of the Charity ‘s annual reports and the accompanying narrative to explain the financial performance of the year
- Support the Charity’s regulatory compliance responsibilities, particularly with the financial elements of ESFA funding guidelines. Prepare financial returns, financial health assessments and other submissions to ensure that ESFA requirements are fulfilled.
Cash Flow Management
- Monitory the Charity’s cash flow, manage the working capital controls and produce cashflow reports and forecasts
- Oversee the Charity’s cash flow management processes and report on cash flow performance against budget and forecast targets.
- Prepare weekly cash flow forecasts which provide a consistently reliable understanding of the organisation’s cash flow position over the financial year.
Finance Department Development
- Design and implement learning and development frameworks for each member of the Finance department.
- Ensure that each member of the Finance department is sufficiently supported to fulfil their performance development goals.
About you
- Qualified Accountant (ACA/CIMA/ACCA or equivalent)
- Experience of audit and preparation of annual financial accounts under UK GAAP and understanding of Charity SORP
- Experience of leading and developing Finance teams
- Experience working within the Charity or Education sectors (experience working with ESFA funding is preferable)
- Experienced managing budget processes
- Experience of business partnering
What’s in for you?
- Salary of £60,000 - £65,000 per annum depending on experience
- Hybrid working arrangements – 2/3 days required in office per week
- Office located on Great Russel Steet (Nearest tube station is Tottenham Court Road)
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as the applications come in. Don’t miss your opportunity, apply now!
Our partner, an international charity, seeks an interim finance manager to support the international finance team. The successful candidate will be an all-rounder, with experience in preparing consolidated annual accounts, management accounts, whilst being hands on and taking on transactional elements of the role.
Responsibilities
- Day to day accounting and administration, including posting transactions; payment of suppliers and staff expenses; international bank transfers to overseas country offices; setting up and processing regular giving payments, and processing one off donations; banking; and process monthly payroll.
- Undertake reconciliations of bank and balance sheet accounts.
- Prepare monthly management accounts, including BVA analysis and summaries, and income and expenditure reports for budget holders.
- Prepare the annual consolidated accounts and financial statements, and support in the preparation of the annual audit, liaising with the overseas country offices.
Requirements
- Qualified or part-qualified accountant with all-round experience working in a small team within an international charity. Experience of leading on the production of annual consolidated accounts as per charity SORP in the UK, management accounts & analysis, and managing day-to-day accounting and administrative tasks.
- Hands on, able to manage a varied workload.
- Strong business partnering skills, able to work with finance and non-finance staff in the UK and overseas offices, budget holders and liaise with third parties, including banks and auditors.
- Strong communication skills.
This is a part-time role (3-4 days/week), that can be done either remotely or hybrid, coming into the office 1 day/week. All candidates (even remote) must be based in the UK and have the right to work in the UK without requiring sponsorship. This is a 6 month parental leave cover. An immediate start is preferred.
Candidates must have right to work in the UK.
Ivy Rock Partners are pleased to be working with an outstanding housing association to recruit a Head of Rent Setting and Compliance to join their team.
This role is reporting directly to the Finance Director of Operations and the responsibilities will involve leading the rent-setting process and conducting thorough financial reviews.
This is a hybrid working role 1-2 days in the office based in Central London.
Key responsibilities include:
- Providing technical advice to the organization and ensure that the organisation complies fully with the Rent Standard of the Regulator of Social Housing and individual rent agreements
- Ensuring the accuracy of financial information related to rent accounting
- Contacting customers related to the rent setting
- Being the lead responsible for the annual audit and Regulatory returns
- Leverage data analytics to identify inconsistencies and other issues and driving improvements in operational services and processes
- Being accountable for preparing rent budgets
You will:
- Be a CCAB qualified accountant with relevant sector experience
- Have a strong understanding of the housing regulatory framework for landlords with a particular focus on knowledge around the Rent Standard
- Have substantial hands-on technical expertise and the ability to cultivate strong working relationships with all relevant service providers, suppliers, and stakeholders
- Experienced in managing external and internal auditors
Benefits include:
- 30 days annual leave (not including bank holidays)
- Two additional paid volunteering days each year
- Flexible benefits scheme
- Competitive salaries that are benchmarked regularly against current market rates
- 4 x salary life assurance
- Up to 10% pension contribution
Please get in contact with Megan Hunter for a confidential conversation about this role.