Commercial finance business partner jobs

This is a new role at a genuine moment of growth for SSE - we expect to recruit over 600 social entrepreneurs across our learning programmes next year and every one of them starts with a good assessment. 

Our assessment work spans a large pool of staff, freelancers and partners, and this role exists to bring it all together: clear frameworks, consistent data, and a process that's welcoming to people who don't always find application processes easy.

We're looking for an assessment lead to design and embed the systems, training and guidance that help our wider team assess applicants fairly, consistently and efficiently - and to carry out assessments and interviews directly. You'll work closely with the Head of Grants and Assessment, our Tech Team, and Programme Managers across the organisation.

You’ll will need to have a rare combinations of skills – a good understanding of a wide range of social enterprises and charities, gained through experience of training, business consultancy or development support, combined with the ability to design systems to support data collection and assessment, and the ability to support others to use those systems. Are you up for the challenge?

Financial Planning and Analysis Lead
Salary: £80,000 - £85,000 pro rata
Contract: Fixed-Term Contract (6 Months)
Hours: 35 hours per week
Location: Central London (Hybrid, 1-2 days per week onsite)

This is a unique opportunity for an experienced FP&A professional to join a well-established membership organisation undergoing significant change and transformation.
 
With no dedicated FP&A function currently in place, this role has been created to provide immediate leadership across budgeting, forecasting, financial planning and management reporting. The successful candidate will play a pivotal role in delivering the next budget cycle while building stronger financial planning processes and reporting capabilities for the future.
 
This is a highly visible position requiring an individual who can quickly establish credibility with senior stakeholders, provide commercial challenge and insight, and drive meaningful improvements across finance processes, systems and controls.

What you will be doing

• Lead and coordinate the full organisational budgeting process
• Manage forecasting and financial planning activities
• Develop a more structured and consistent FP&A framework
• Improve the quality, accuracy and usefulness of management reporting
• Produce insightful analysis to support strategic decision-making
• Partner with budget holders and senior leaders across the organisation
• Build robust financial models and business cases
• Support wider finance transformation initiatives
• Review and improve reporting processes, controls and systems
• Help embed stronger financial discipline, accountability and governance

What we are looking for


You will be a genuine FP&A specialist with a proven track record of delivering budgeting, forecasting and planning processes in a complex organisatin such as a similar Royal College or membership organisation.

You will bring:
 

• Qualified accountant (CIMA, ICAEW, ACCA or equivalent).
• Significant FP&A experience with a similar Royal College or membership organisation
• Strong budgeting, forecasting and financial planning expertise
• Advanced Excel and using Microsoft Dynamics 365 Business Central
• Experience providing and improving finance business partnering support in an organisation going through change or transformation.

We want you to have every opportunity to demonstrate your skills, ability and potential; please contact us if you require any assistance or adjustment so that we can help with making the application process work for you.

Senior Tax Manager - UK Hybrid: £80,000 - £83,300 + Amazing Benefits

For a global organisation working in over 100 countries, we're recruiting a Senior Tax Manager. Reporting to the Director of Group Tax and Status, this role will support the team on all business projects and transactions across the UK and overseas including due diligence, analysing and advising tax implications on cross-border transactions, exploring tax risk mitigation and tax efficiency strategy, supporting business change.

The Senior Tax Manager will suit someone who has dealt with multiple tax jurisdictions and regions, covering both direct and indirect taxes, and coordinating with multiple internal and external stakeholders from different business units, regions and countries. Experience from implications arising from business restructuring, and divestments (including disposal of real estate assets) is key.

This role can be based UK-wide with occasional office attendance (London, Cardiff, Edinburgh, Belfast)

Main Duties:

• Provide technical and tax advisory support across all tax disciplines and to all areas of the organisation, supporting group tax team
• Support due diligence reviews, business restructuring projects, acquisition and divestments, impact analysis of operating model change, and introduction of new business areas and closure of entities
• Collaborate with internal and external advisors for cross-boarder projects / transactions, consulting with regional specialists to ensure tax compliance requirements are met
• Collaborate with professional advisors in delivering technical advisory support across countries.
• Support the Group Tax Manager in technical consulting across taxation aspects (local direct tax, withholding tax and sales taxes) including interpreting advise with country finance, legal and governance colleagues
• Partner with Director of Group Tax, and International Tax manager to manage UK and overseas tax risks resulting from business projects and transactions

Person Specification:

• Qualified CTA, ADIT, ATT or a CCAB Accountant
• Substantial international tax experience, ideally MENA and APAC from large commercial organisations or as a Tax specialist at senior manager level in a professional services firm.
• Solid experience of coordinating and sharing tax best practice with Regions
• Direct Tax experience and exposure to transfer pricing, permanent establishment, double tax agreements, and withholding taxes
• Experience handling complex negotiations with tax authorities
• International Tax planning, Tax assessments in business set-up and global growth
• Tax compliance and risk management

________

As an employer, we are committed to ensuring the representation of people from all backgrounds regardless of their gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, race, religion, ethnicity, age, neurodiversity, disability status, or any other aspect which makes them unique. We welcome applicants from all backgrounds to apply and would encourage you to let us know if there are steps, we can take to ensure that your recruitment process enables you to present yourself in a way that makes you comfortable.

Lead a respected counselling charity and help shape the future of mental health support in our community.

If you're an inspiring leader who combines strategic thinking with a hands-on approach, this is an opportunity to make a lasting difference. As our new Head of Centre, you'll lead an established, BACP-accredited charity with an excellent reputation for delivering affordable, high-quality counselling and professional training across West Kent and East Sussex.

For almost 40 years, The Counselling Centre has been committed to ensuring that everyone can access professional counselling, regardless of their financial circumstances. We are now looking for an exceptional leader to build on this legacy, strengthening our financial sustainability, developing new partnerships and expanding our impact to meet the growing demand for mental health support.

Reporting to the Chair of the Board of Trustees, you will provide both strategic and operational leadership across the organisation. You'll work closely with our dedicated staff, volunteers and trustees to ensure we continue to deliver outstanding counselling, training and community services while identifying opportunities for growth, innovation and long-term sustainability.

This is a varied and rewarding leadership role. You'll oversee the day-to-day running of the charity, lead financial planning and income generation, develop relationships with funders, commissioners, businesses and community partners, and act as an ambassador for The Counselling Centre across the local area. You'll also champion our values, nurture a positive organisational culture and ensure we continue to meet the highest standards of governance and professional practice.

We're looking for someone who brings senior leadership experience, commercial awareness and a genuine commitment to improving mental health. You'll be an excellent relationship builder with experience of developing partnerships, generating income and leading organisational change. Most importantly, you'll be motivated by our mission and excited by the opportunity to help shape the next chapter of our organisation.

Why join us?

• Lead a respected charity with an outstanding reputation built over almost 40 years.

• Make a genuine difference to the lives of people in your local community.

• Work alongside a committed Board of Trustees, experienced staff and dedicated volunteers.

• Help shape the future direction and growth of an ambitious organisation.

• Enjoy a flexible part-time role (21 hours per week) with hybrid working.

• Competitive salary of circa £50,000–£55,000 per annum pro rata, contributory pension, 25 days' annual leave (pro rata) plus bank holidays, and Christmas closure.

If you're looking for a leadership role where your strategic vision, commercial skills and passion for community impact can make a real difference, we'd love to hear from you.

Tax Manager - UK Hybrid: £50,000 - £53,000 + Amazing Benefits

For a global organisation working in over 100 countries, we're recruiting a Tax Manager. Reporting to the Group Tax Manager, this role will support the team on all direct tax initiatives across the UK and International Regions and Countries covering developments in tax policies, processes, procedures and tax systems. The Tax Manager will support the mitigation of global tax risks and will ensure complex business operations globally are managed tax efficiently. This role can be based UK-wide, with occasional office attendance (London, Cardiff, Edinburgh, Belfast)

Main Duties:

• Provide technical and tax advisory support across all tax disciplines and to all areas of the organisation, supporting global tax reporting and forecasting
• Work with finance business partners, transfer pricing specialists and subsidiaries accountants to implement transfer pricing charging for intra-group services
• Provide support to Group Tax Manager on specific country tax and status projects
• Support in dealing with local tax authorities as country statuses change and negotiate beneficial direct tax liability arrangements
• Maintain control and oversight to monitor tax risks globally and support tax audit resolutions
• Support Group Tax Manager devise direct tax policies, processes and procedures to ensure controls are robust for all entities and countries
• Support in devising direct tax strategy to deal with new legislation, manage tax liabilities and ensure tax authority relationships are managed

Person Specification:

• Qualified CTA, ADIT, ATT or a CCAB Accountant
• Substantial international tax experience, ideally MENA and APAC from large commercial organisations or as a Tax specialist at manager level in a professional services firm.
• Solid experience of coordinating and sharing tax best practice with Regions
• Direct Tax experience
• Exposure to transfer pricing, permanent establishment, double tax agreements, and withholding taxes
• Experience handling complex negotiations with tax authorities
• International Tax planning, Tax assessments in business set-up and global growth
• Tax compliance and risk management

________

As an employer, we are committed to ensuring the representation of people from all backgrounds regardless of their gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, race, religion, ethnicity, age, neurodiversity, disability status, or any other aspect which makes them unique. We welcome applicants from all backgrounds to apply and would encourage you to let us know if there are steps, we can take to ensure that your recruitment process enables you to present yourself in a way that makes you comfortable.

This is an opportunity to play a visible role in contributing to the procurement practice across the FRC, working with stakeholders across the organisation and supporting high-quality, compliant procurement outcomes. The successful candidate will provide professional procurement, commercial and contract input to the business, ensuring alignment with FRC policy, the Public Contracts Regulations 2015 (PCR15) and the Procurement Act 2023 (PA23).

This is an exciting opportunity to join the FRC's collaborative Procurement & Contracts team, where you will play a key role in helping the organisation achieve its strategic objectives. Procurement is a trusted business partner at the FRC, providing advice, guidance and constructive challenge to ensure commercial decisions deliver value for money, comply with regulatory requirements and support organisational success. Working with stakeholders across the business, you will have the opportunity to influence outcomes, drive continuous improvement and contribute to the delivery of high-quality public services.

Job Description

Accountabilities 

• Implement procurement best practice to deliver high-quality, compliant and value-focused procurement services for the FRC.
• Manage a range of end-to-end procurement exercises, including the use of Framework Agreements and/or Find a Tender where applicable.
• Manage a portfolio of procurement and contract-related activity, including change control and Notices of Termination.
• Identify and deliver cost savings, process efficiencies and procurement improvements, including contributing to technology solutions that enhance team processes and reporting.
• Work with internal stakeholders to understand business needs, provide procurement advice and support effective delivery of procurement activity.
• Engage with external suppliers to obtain information, quotations, proposals and other procurement-related inputs.
• Maintain and report on data within the FRC’s Contracts Database, ensuring information supports effective management information reporting.
• Design, coordinate and manage tender processes, including preparing tender documents, capturing expressions of interest, managing Q&A, developing evaluation criteria and methodology, and communicating outcomes.
• Support the Head of Procurement & Contracts in delivering the strategic objectives of the procurement function.
• Share knowledge and good practice across the FRC’s procurement team to support consistency, learning and continuous improvement.
• Undertake other procurement, commercial or contract-related activities that are appropriate to the role, skills and level of responsibility.
• Manage procurement and contract-related activity across the role’s portfolio.
• The role requires liaison across the whole organisation.
• External suppliers and stakeholders.

Skills, Knowledge & Expertise

• Strong experience of end-to-end procurement activity, including reviewing applicable terms and conditions and supporting compliant commercial decision-making.
• Sound knowledge and experience of public sector procurement, including pre-market engagement, sourcing, contract management and supplier management.
• Good understanding of the professional, legal and regulatory environment in which the procurement function operates, including PCR15 and PA23.
• Qualified or part-qualified member of the Chartered Institute of Procurement & Supply (MCIPS), or working towards an equivalent professional procurement qualification, is desirable.

Essential Skills

• Ability to build effective relationships with colleagues, suppliers and stakeholders, with a strong customer-service ethos.
• Ability to apply procurement requirements in a practical and proportionate way, using sound judgement to support effective outcomes.
• Strong problem-solving skills, with the ability to interpret information and apply sound judgement.
• Ability to manage workload effectively.
• Strong attention to detail, with the ability to review information accurately and identify issues that may require further consideration.
• Excellent IT, written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to explain procurement requirements clearly to a range of audiences.

For more information, please redirect to the recruiter.

Main Purpose of the Post

The Chief Executive will have overall responsibility for all aspects of the day to day running of the RLSS and all its services. This will include management of staff and ensuring the services are meeting the needs of those who require them, in addition to managing finances, membership and external relationships. The post holder will be accountable to and work closely with the Board Chair and its Directors to set the strategic direction and further develop the business model which will serve Religious Life Groups for the future.

Key Duties and Responsibilities

Strategy & Leadership and Governance

· Provide visible, ambitious, and focused leadership of the RLSS.

· Be overall responsible for the management of the RLSS working in conjunction with the Chair and Directors to provide leadership.

· Lead and contribute to the Board’s overall development of the strategy and annual plans to ensure achievement of a One Church approach to applying the Church’s safeguarding standards.

· Ensure risks to the overall objectives of the RLSS are identified, mitigated, and reported to the Board.

· Develop a culture of resilience, adaptability, and continuous learning within the organization to navigate challenges and maintain trust among victims/survivors and members.

· Develop and promote services and practice improvements which are designed to mitigate risk and improve understanding within safeguarding.

· Effectively sustain a culture that consistently meets the needs of and engages with victim/survivors and with Religious.

· Foster and develop a climate of shared accountabilities, learning and continuous improvement.

· Ensure the RLSS meets it statutory, legal, and regulatory obligations.

· Ensure appropriate presentation and reporting to the Board (and any sub committees and advisory groups) on the progress of the RLSS and on all matters relevant to the discharge of the Board’s responsibilities.

· Oversee all promotional activities, press releases, digital presence, radio, and newspaper interviews.

Staffing & Management.

· Be accountable for the recruitment, retention, ongoing development, and wellbeing of RLSS staff.

· Enthusiastically and effectively, lead, shape, and influence teams to deliver the vision and goals of RLSS to ensure best practice in the delivery of all its safeguarding services. 

· Create a supportive working environment which promotes transparency and collaboration in safeguarding.

· Ensure that high quality people management is embedded across the service and foster a high performing culture with shared accountabilities and continuous improvement. 

· Ensure the effective management and implementation of robust performance management and appraisal processes.

· Provide direction, support, and set clear objectives to immediate line reports.

· Provide or arrange professional supervision to safeguarding case working staff.

· Produce, review and update plans relating to service areas.

· Establish and maintain effective and secure record keeping systems.

· Ensure the management and implementation of regular quality assurance, audit, performance management and reporting, using effective management information systems, ensuring this meets CSSA’s requirements.

Collaboration/Networks.

· Contribute to strategic level initiatives with key partners, particularly the Catholic Safeguarding Standards Agency (CSSA) and relevant statutory agencies, to ensure joint planning, access to resources and the development of interagency strategies.

· Build strong and dynamic relationships and networks within and outside the Church to deliver better outcomes for Religious in safeguarding.

Policy and Procedure

· Ensure a robust and up to date Policy & Procedure framework approved by the Board is in place including HR, Health and Safety, Data Protection and operational delivery.

· Ensure there is a system in place to review approved policies and procedures to ensure that substantial changes or additions are brought to the Board for decision.

· Undertake operating compliance exercises including annual risk assessments, health and safety checks and reporting on incidents and near misses.

· Ensure

 

Finance & Resources

· In conjunction with the Board of Directors, develop a long-term funding strategy, including gathering data, completing research, developing models to ensure the service is cost effective.

· Agree and deliver to budget maintaining a reserve level in line with policy and monitor all budgets and provide financial reports to the Board of Directors.

· Be responsible and accountable for all finances and resources within the teams, ensuring value for money, the avoidance of waste, and the efficient and effective use of all resources.

· Ensure the equitable and timely allocation of work, assuring the most appropriate interventions that timescales are being met and appropriate records maintained.

· Be responsible for all contracts, tenancy agreements and leases.

· Have overall responsibility for the security of confidential information, use of computers and database information.

· Well-developed database and Microsoft Office skills.

This a summary of the key activities of the post.  It is not intended to be an exhaustive list and the post-holder may be required to perform other duties which are appropriate to the scale and nature of the job role.

Role Requirements

Essential Criteria you need to be able to demonstrate:

Strategic and system leadership

• Experience of working at Chief Executive level in similar size/larger organisation.

• A strong track record leading organisations, setting direction and delivering outcomes

• Resilience and the ability to work under pressure whilst showing consideration to others.

Culture and capability building

• motivating people, driving, and evaluating performance, and building a positive and inclusive culture

Commercial and professional judgement

• Professional knowledge and experience that evidence a strategic and operational understanding of safeguarding

• Management skills including finance, planning, project management and marketing.

• Strong commercial acumen.

• Experience of negotiating and managing contracts.

• Excellent verbal and written communication skills, and competence in using digital technology for service delivery across the organisation.

• A creative thinker, proven leader with a ‘can do’ attitude which is results orientated.

Stakeholder engagement and influence

• Interpersonal and listening skills; an ability to deal sensitively with those in Religious Life, Victims/Survivors public, the vulnerable and their families/representatives.

• Skills in conflict resolution, negotiation and problem solving.

• Experience of reviewing evidence and taking appropriate action where necessary; applying sound judgement, with an attention to detail; maintaining confidentiality and building trust

• Ability to respond, sensitively and fully to complaints.

 

Desirable Criteria you need to be able to demonstrate:

· Understanding of the way in which faith-based organisations respond effectively/ dysfunctionally to safeguarding issues

· Senior management experience in the charitable sector

Due Diligence – Please note that as part of the safer recruitment process, due diligence including social media checks will be undertaken on appointable candidates.

Passionate about democracy, education and young people? 

Young Citizens is a national citizenship education charity with nearly 40 years' experience inspiring active citizenship among children and young people. 

As curriculum and policy change accelerates, including Votes for 16 reshaping how young people engage in civic life – we're focused on ensuring active citizenship sits at the heart of how the next generation is prepared to participate in and protect a thriving democracy. 

About the role 

We're looking for an ambitious, commercially minded Corporate Partnerships Manager to lead our corporate partnerships and drive the income that powers our work. This is more than a corporate partnerships role—it's your opportunity to lead income generation for a growing national charity. You'll shape our fundraising strategy, influence our future business model and broaden your expertise across corporate partnerships, trusts and grant funding, and organisational growth. 

Working closely with the CEO, Senior Finance Manager and colleagues across the organisation, you'll identify and secure new funding opportunities, build strategic partnerships with corporates, trusts and foundations, develop compelling funding propositions, and create sustainable income that enables more children and young people to become active citizens. This role is hands on, managing all elements of the partnership and income process, ensuring the charity builds on our existing income and works with senior leadership to develop new opporutnities. 

If you have a track record of securing funding, driving forward a busy pipeline, building senior stakeholder relationships and turning opportunities into sustainable partnerships, we'd love to hear from you. 

This is a rare opportunity to take ownership of a critical organisational function, broaden your fundraising and business development portfolio, and play a leading role in the growth of an ambitious national charity. 

We're looking for someone who brings:  

• Drive that delivers quality results   

• Comfort with intensive and high-volume delivery of memberships, programmes and/or relationships  

• Enthusiasm for problem-solving, in a team and proactively in your role  

• An ability to learn fast and self-teach, from databases to how we communicate internally  

• A desire to develop your skills as a well-rounded member of a social impact organisation  

Why Join Us? 

This is a high-impact role with real scope to shape how Young Citizens grows its income, partnerships and long-term sustainability. You will work closely with senior leadership, take ownership of a key organisational function, and directly contribute to scaling our impact over the coming years.  

You will join a purpose-led, ambitious and collaborative team committed to strengthening democracy by equipping young people with the skills, knowledge and confidence to participate actively in society. 

We are a growing, agile organisation with a strong focus on learning and development. We invest in our people and provide real opportunities to build expertise, take ownership and grow alongside the organisation as we scale over the next three years.  

We combine a results-driven culture with flexibility in how we work. Our benefits include 28+ days of annual leave (plus 8 bank holidays), volunteering days, office closure over the Christmas period, full pension contributions on the first 8%, and enhanced leave packages. 

As a relatively small yet national team, you will have the opportunity to work across the organisation and closely with the CEO, influencing how we improve our programmes, and see the direct impact of your work on our mission. 

If you're looking for a role where you can develop your career, take on real responsibility, and help strengthen democracy through education, we'd love to hear from you. 

Download the full recruitment pack for more information about the role, progression with Young Citizens and how to apply. 

A Few Useful Notes When Applying  

If you are excited by the opportunity to build partnerships that help more young people become active citizens, we would love to hear from you. Please submit your CV and a cover letter addressing the application questions in the full job pack, which also contains further details on the application process. 

Additional Information 

• Applicants must have the right to work in the UK. 

• Offers of employment are subject to satisfactory references. 

• We welcome applications from candidates from all backgrounds and are committed to creating an inclusive workplace. 

• We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expect all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. 

Contract: Full-time, permanent
Hours: Full-time
Reports to: Chair; Board of Directors 
Location: Hackney
Salary: £50,000-60,000 depending on experience.
Pension: HSoF participates in the National Employment Savings Trust (NEST) pension scheme and contributes 3%.
Benefits: 25 days’ annual leave plus bank holidays, free onsite lunches .
Probation period: Six months.

About Hackney School of Food

Hackney School of Food is an award-winning food education hub based in the grounds of Mandeville Primary School in Clapton, East London. Through our teaching kitchen and educational garden, we help children, families and communities build the skills, confidence and knowledge to grow, cook and eat good food.

Each year, we welcome more than 10,000 visits to our kitchen and garden, delivering curriculum programmes for schools alongside community cooking courses, gardening projects, holiday clubs, corporate volunteering and public events. Since becoming a Community Interest Company (CIC) in 2023, we have expanded our facilities, strengthened our governance and built a strong reputation as a leader in food education.

We're now looking for an exceptional Managing Director to build on these strong foundations and lead Hackney School of Food through its next phase of growth and impact.

About the role

Reporting to the Board of Directors, the Managing Director (MD) will provide both strategic and operational leadership, ensuring the organisation delivers its mission while remaining financially resilient, well-governed and responsive to the needs of the communities it serves.

The Managing Director is responsible for all aspects of the organisation, including strategy, income generation, finance, governance, partnerships, programme delivery and people leadership. Working closely with a small, committed team and an engaged Board, they will build on strong foundations to grow Hackney School of Food's impact, reach and long-term sustainability.

This is a varied, hands-on leadership role for someone who enjoys balancing big-picture thinking with practical delivery. One day you may be developing a new partnership, meeting a prospective funder or working with the Board on future strategy; the next you could be supporting the team, welcoming visitors to the garden or solving day-to-day operational challenges.

Key priorities

In your first 12 months you will:

• Build on Hackney School of Food's strong foundations to deliver the next phase of our strategy and growth.

• Increase and diversify income through fundraising, partnerships and commercial opportunities to strengthen long-term sustainability.

• Lead, support and develop a small, ambitious team, fostering a positive and inclusive culture where people can thrive.

• Strengthen relationships with funders, partners and local businesses, helping Hackney School of Food deepen its impact.

• Work closely with the Board to embed strong governance, organisational systems and long-term planning for the future.

Key Responsibilities

Strategic Leadership 

• Provide overall leadership and strategic direction for Hackney School of Food, ensuring delivery of its mission, vision and long-term objectives. 

• Lead the development and implementation of Hackney School of Food's annual business plan and organisational priorities.

• Work with the Board to evolve organisational strategy, identify opportunities, manage risks and support sustainable growth.

• Monitor, report on and respond to organisational performance against agreed objectives and impact measures. 

• Champion Hackney School of Food externally, strengthening its profile and influence.
   

Financial sustainability and income generation 

• Oversee organisational budgeting, financial planning, forecasting and cashflow management, working closely with the Treasurer and accountant.

• Lead income generation across the organisation, including trusts and foundations, corporate partnerships, sponsorship and earned income.

• Build and maintain strong relationships with funders, sponsors and strategic partners.

• Ensure all funding commitments are met, including grant reporting, monitoring and evaluation requirements.

• Identify new opportunities to diversify income and strengthen long-term financial sustainability.

Partnerships & External Relations

• Act as the main point of contact for HSoF’s key partners, LEAP Federation and Chefs in Schools to ensure the partnerships are effective and positive.

• Build and maintain strong relationships with other key stakeholders, including local authorities, funders and sponsors.

• Represent Hackney School of Food at meetings, events, and public forums.

• Champion the value of food education and contribute to wider local and national conversations. 

• Ensure programmes remain responsive to community needs through ongoing engagement and consultation. 

Governance and public benefit 

• Ensure the organisation operates in line with its CIC objectives and delivers clear public benefit. 

• Support the Board of Directors to fulfil its governance responsibilities through high-quality reporting, planning and decision-making.

• Prepare Board papers, reports and agendas, ensuring timely and accurate information is available to support effective governance.

• Oversee and report on organisational performance to the Board of Directors quarterly.

• Act as the primary link between the Board and the operational team.

• Maintain effective governance, delegated authority and accountability frameworks. 

• Support the Board in meeting all statutory and regulatory obligations relating to the CIC.

People, Culture and safeguarding

• Provide leadership to a small core team (currently c.4 employees), directly managing staff and fostering a positive, inclusive culture. 

• Provide oversight and support for a wider network of approx. 15 freelance contractors to ensure consistently high-quality delivery.

• Lead recruitment, induction, performance management and professional development in line with safer recruitment and equality principles. 

• Ensure effective organisational structures, clear roles, and performance accountability.

• Oversee HR processes including appraisals, performance management, and professional development.

• Act as Designated Safeguarding Lead, embedding safeguarding throughout the organisation maintaining compliance with all relevant requirements. 

• Develop organisational systems, policies and practices that support an inclusive, high-performing workplace.

Risk Management & Compliance

• Maintain and regularly review the organisational Risk Register and report key risks and mitigations to the Board.

• Oversee organisational policies, procedures and continuous improvement, ensuring policies and legal requirements are up to date, clearly communicated and embedded across the organisation. 

• Ensure compliance with employment law, health and safety, safeguarding, GDPR and other relevant legislation. 

Personal specification

Essential experience 

• Senior leadership experience with responsibility for organisational performance and accountability. 

• Experience securing income through fundraising, partnerships and/or commercial activity.

• Experience of financial leadership, including budget setting, forecasting and cashflow oversight.

• Experience working closely with a Board, Trustees or governing body to translate strategic vision into operational delivery. 

• Experience building and managing successful partnerships with funders, businesses and community stakeholders. 

• Experience in managing and motivating a team, creating a positive and inclusive workplace culture. 

• Experience of governance, compliance and organisational risk management.

• Experience of safeguarding within an education, youth or community context.

• Excellent organisational skills, with the ability to prioritise competing demands, make sound decisions and remain resilient in a resource-constrained environment.

Essential skills and attributes

• Passion for Hackney School of Food's mission and the role of food education in improving health, wellbeing and community connection. 

• Strategic thinker who is equally comfortable with hands-on operational leadership. 

• Entrepreneurial, resourceful and committed to building long-term financial sustainability and identifying growth opportunities.

• Ability to lead a team through change with sensitivity, clarity and kindness.

• Strong communicator with excellent relationship-building skills. 

• Confident decision-maker with a high level of personal accountability. 

• Committed to equity, inclusion and community-led practice.

Desirable 

• Experience working within a Community Interest Company (CIC), social enterprise or charity.

• Knowledge of Hackney, its communities and local stakeholder landscape.

• Experience of working in food education, community food, gardening, environmental education or a related field.

• Experience reviewing and managing contracts, service agreements or other legal documentation.

An inclusive workplace

We know that diverse teams make stronger organisations and are committed to building a workforce that reflects the communities we serve. We are committed to fair and inclusive recruitment and will consider all qualified applicants regardless of age, disability, gender identity, marriage or civil partnership status, pregnancy or maternity, race, religion or belief, sex or sexual orientation.

We particularly encourage applications from people who are under-represented in our sector and in leadership roles, including people from the global majority and those whose lived experience brings valuable perspectives from the communities we serve. We also welcome applications from people who live in Hackney or East London.

How to apply

The deadline to apply is Monday 20 July at 9am. Please apply by filling out this application form.

You'll find the link to the application form on our Recruitment Pack which provides more information. 

Stage 1: A one-hour online interview with the Senior Team and Board (24 July) 

Stage 2: On-site interview at Hackney School of Food (30 July), including a short presentation. 

We may also invite the preferred candidate to an informal meeting with the wider team and Board before making a final appointment. 

The successful applicant will need to pass an enhanced DBS check and provide two suitable references. 

We may close the application window earlier if we are inundated with applications, so please don't wait to apply.

If you have any questions about the role or your suitability, please feel free to get in touch with us. You will find a Recruitment pack and email address to contact via our website.

Financial Controller - Multi Academy Trust 

Location: Thrapston, Northamptonshire
Contract Type: Permanent
Salary: £51,000 -£58,000 per annum

· Lead and develop a Finance Operations team within education

· Partner directly with the CFO on strategic financial planning

· Hands-on financial accounting role managing a team

· Develop your career within a Trust committed to professional growth

Our client, a well-established Multi-Academy Trust with schools across Corby, Kettering and Wisbech, is seeking an experienced Financial Controller to join their central finance team – in the Thrapston Head Office. This is an excellent opportunity for a finance professional looking to make a meaningful impact within the education sector while advancing their career in a supportive and values-driven organisation.

Company Overview 

This Multi-Academy Trust of 12 primary & secondary schools is committed to enhancing strategic financial insight across its schools and leadership teams. They focus on the efficient allocation of resources, integrating finance with curriculum planning, and ensuring compliance with ESFA and academy handbook requirements. The Trust values continuous improvement and invests in the ongoing professional and personal development of every employee. With a strong emphasis on collaboration, high standards, and courteous service, they create an environment where finance professionals can grow while making a real difference to students and staff across their schools.

Position Overview

As Financial Controller, you'll play a key role in ensuring financial sustainability across the Trust. Working closely with the CFO, you'll manage capital and revenue budgets, produce financial reports and statements, and lead the Finance Operations team of 4 staff. This position is central to maintaining robust financial controls, managing risk, and ensuring compliance with financial and legal obligations. You'll also build strong relationships with external stakeholders including banks, the DfE, and auditors, while identifying opportunities for cost savings and improved efficiency across the Trust.

Responsibilities 

· Manage and monitor capital and revenue budgets effectively

· Support the CFO in producing regular finance reports and budget packs

· Prepare financial statements including cash flow, income and balance sheets

· Perform monthly balance sheet reconciliations and fixed asset reporting

· Maintain the Key Financial Controls Framework across the Trust

· Conduct fixed asset verifications and stock takes

· Manage financial risk and ensure compliance with regulations

· Build and maintain relationships with banks, DfE, auditors and stakeholders

· Organise and follow up on internal and external audits

· Lead, develop and manage the Finance Operations team (4 staff)

· Monitor cost-effectiveness of services and identify savings opportunities

· Oversee transactional processes including banking, purchase ledger and sales ledger

· Manage working capital and cash flow forecasting

· Partner with the CEO, Regional Executive Principals and School Business Managers

Requirements 

· Proven experience managing budgets and financial controls in a similar role

· Ideally fully-qualified ACCA, CIMA, ACA or CIPA accountant

· Strong technical accounting skills including balance sheet reconciliations and financial statements

· Experience leading and developing finance teams

· Knowledge of compliance requirements, ideally within education or public sector

· Ability to build effective relationships with senior stakeholders

· Experience managing audits and working with external bodies

· Strong analytical skills to identify cost savings and efficiency improvements

· Understanding of working capital management and cash flow forecasting

· Commitment to continuous improvement and professional development

Benefits

· Competitive salary of £51-58k

· Leading public sector pension contributions

· The role is office based but there is flexibility to work from home during quieter periods

· Commitment to ongoing professional and personal development

· Supportive leadership and clear career progression opportunities

You'll join a Trust that genuinely values its people and invests in their growth. Working alongside committed professionals, you'll be part of an organisation focused on continuous improvement, high standards, and making a positive impact on education.

How to Apply 

If you have the skills and experience to succeed in this Financial Controller role and are looking to advance your career within the education sector, please submit your CV and a cover letter outlining your relevant experience. We look forward to hearing from you.

Closing date: Ongoing/ASAP

As a key member of the Senior Leadership Team, you will help shape the strategic direction and future growth of TCVS, working closely with the Chief Executive, Board of Trustees and senior colleagues to deliver our organisational ambitions.

You will:

• Provide strategic leadership across all corporate services, including HR, Finance, IT, Facilities, Health & Safety, Compliance, Administration and Organisational Systems.
• Ensure operational systems, policies and processes are efficient, compliant, scalable and support organisational excellence.
• Lead organisational development, workforce planning and continuous improvement, fostering a high-performing, inclusive and values-led culture.
• Oversee governance, risk management, business continuity and regulatory compliance, supporting the Board to deliver effective governance.
• Monitor organisational performance, ensuring delivery against strategic priorities and organisational objectives.
• Drive digital transformation and innovation, embedding technology and systems that improve efficiency, data quality and organisational learning.
• Support the long-term financial sustainability of TCVS by developing earned income opportunities, partnerships and trading activities.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with trustees, partners, funders, tenants and key stakeholders, representing TCVS across Thurrock and South West Essex.
• Contribute to organisational resilience, growth and future expansion through effective leadership, planning and decision-making.
• Deputise for the Chief Executive as required and provide leadership across the organisation.

You will also champion equality, diversity and inclusion, promote staff wellbeing and professional development, participate in the on-call rota, and undertake other responsibilities appropriate to this senior leadership role.

Salary: £60,000 (full time equivalent)

Hours: Full or part-time working, we are open to flexible working arrangements and applications from candidates seeking 30+ hours per week. Salary will be calculated on a pro rata basis for part time hours.

Location: The role is home-based, with regular travel across the South East, alongside occasional national travel.

Job Type: 12 months fixed term contract (Subject to the organisation's future strategic priorities and financial position, there may be the opportunity for the role to become permanent)

Chiltern Music Therapy is seeking an Interim Chief Executive Officer for a 12-month appointment to lead an ambitious programme of organisational transformation and sustainable growth. Working closely with our Board and team, you will strengthen our financial sustainability, develop new opportunities for growth and leave the organisation well positioned for its next permanent Chief Executive. 

Hello, we’re Chiltern.

We are a social enterprise providing music therapy, community music services and training across England. Each year, we support more than 2,000 children, young people and adults across health, education, social care and community settings.

For many years, we have been exploring and developing a more self-managing and distributed approach to organisational life — one rooted in trust, autonomy, shared responsibility and reflective practice. This has helped us build a highly engaged and thoughtful team, alongside services that make a meaningful difference in people’s lives.

We are entering an exciting period of change, with a clear ambition to strengthen our commercial sustainability, increase our reach, grow our income and ensure our operating model is fit for the future. This interim appointment is a key part of that journey, bringing focused leadership to help us deliver meaningful organisational change while remaining true to our collaborative culture and values. 

About the role

This is a delivery-focused interim leadership role with a clear mandate to accelerate organisational transformation and sustainable growth over the next 12 months. 

The role combines strategic leadership of the organisation with hands-on responsibility for strengthening financial sustainability, business development, organisational alignment and ensuring the organisation is well positioned for long-term success.

We are looking for a CEO who is excited by creating opportunities. Someone who enjoys building relationships, spotting potential and turning ideas into sustainable partnerships that increase both our impact and our income. A central part of this role is generating new business for Chiltern by developing strategic partnerships, securing larger-scale opportunities and helping us grow in ways that remain true to our values and culture. 

The role requires someone who can comfortably hold both the bigger picture and the operational reality — someone who enjoys being connected to the organisation, understanding how things are working in practice and helping create the conditions for people and services to thrive.

We are looking for a leader who is relational, commercially aware and emotionally intelligent; someone who can navigate complexity with clarity and steadiness, and who is comfortable working within a collaborative and distributed leadership culture rather than a traditional hierarchy.

Who we are looking for

We are looking for someone who can operate effectively in a self-organising, values-led, evolving system.

We are interested in hearing from people with senior leadership experience within complex, people-focused organisations.

You may come from health, education, social care, the charity sector, social enterprise, or another relevant service environment. What matters most is your ability to step into organisations during periods of change and quickly build trust, momentum, and clarity.

The successful candidate will leave a lasting legacy by strengthening the organisation's sustainability, capability, and readiness for its next phase of development. 

You'll work within a collaborative and, values-led organisation, but you'll also be expected to provide clear direction, make confident decisions, prioritise effectively, and deliver measurable progress over a 12-month period. 

You will likely bring:

• Experience leading organisational transformation or significant change

• A track record of driving sustainable growth and income generation

• Strong commercial and financial leadership

• Ability to quickly build credibility with Boards, staff and external partners

• Experience delivering measurable organisational improvement

• Excellent relationship-building and influencing skills

• Confidence making decisions in complex environments

Experience of self-managing, employee-owned or distributed leadership environments would be welcomed, although this is not essential.

We’ve outlined the essential and desirable experience, knowledge and attributes for this role in the full candidate pack.

We know that strong candidates do not always meet every requirement. If this role resonates with you, we would encourage you to consider applying.

Recruitment process

We aim to make our recruitment process thoughtful, proportionate and human. You will be asked to complete an application form, answering some questions to demonstrate your skills and how you meet the requirements of the role.

Shortlisted candidates will be invited to an interview/ strategic leadership conversation with Board members and will be asked to deliver a presentation.

The application deadline is Sunday 26th July at midnight, with interviews/strategic leadership conversations taking place at Irwin Mitchell, London, EC4Y 0AY on Wednesday 12th August.

A full candidate pack is available here, including further information about the role and our organisational approach. 

How to apply

Please complete the application form on our website and email a summary of your relevant experience (maximum 2 pages, traditional CV optional).

Get in touch

If you have any questions about the role, would like to discuss accessibility or reasonable adjustments, please contact us.

Do you believe in the power of communities to shape change?
OCVA is seeking a values-driven Chief Executive to inspire, connect and champion Oxfordshire’s community and voluntary sector.

This is an opportunity to lead a respected local infrastructure organisation at the heart of Oxfordshire’s voluntary and community sector. As Chief Executive of OCVA, you will work alongside a committed Board and a small, passionate team to support charities and community groups, promote and champion volunteering, influence local systems, and ensure the sector’s voice is heard.

You will balance strategic leadership with strong relationships. This includes working closely with local councils, funders and partners, while staying grounded in the realities faced by community organisations. 

We are looking for someone who shares our values, understands the voluntary and community sector, and is motivated by making a meaningful difference. The role is as much about listening, collaboration and trust as it is about income, sustainability and delivery. If our mission resonates and you bring curiosity, integrity and a commitment to inclusive leadership to all that you do then we would love to hear from you.

About Saferworld

Saferworld is an independent international organisation working in partnership with civil society to prevent violent conflict and build safer lives. We work in solidarity with people affected by conflict to improve their safety and sense of security, and we build conditions for peace and justice. We also support analysis and learning to influence local, national and international policies and practices that help foster lasting peace and justice. Our priority is people – we believe in a world where everyone can lead peaceful, fulfilling lives free from fear and insecurity. We operate on a not-for-profit basis with partners in Africa, Asia and the Middle East, with nine offices across those regions and offices in the UK, USA and Belgium.

Saferworld is committed to providing a safe, trusted environment that safeguards our staff, partners and communities. Our organisational integrity is derived from the values and principles that underpin and guide our work.

We are seeking a strategic and inspiring Head of Funding and Programme Development with a proven ability to lead, motivate, and mobilise resources in a values-driven environment. This role calls for a leader who is deeply committed to equitable partnerships with communities and organisations in conflict-affected settings, guiding teams to raise resources effectively while advancing peace and justice outcomes. Grounded in a people-centred vision of change, you will foster collaboration, champion locally-led approaches, and steer efforts toward resourcing sustainable, community-driven, and collective visions of peace.

About the role

• The Head of Funding and Programme Development will shape Saferworld’s income profile in alignment with our organisational strategy and change process. The post-holder will lead the development and implementation of Saferworld’s funding strategy, ensuring it supports our strategic, programmatic and operational priorities.
• The role will focus on strengthening the quality, flexibility and diversity of Saferworld’s funding base, nurturing relationships with strategic institutional donors, growing philanthropic funding, and identifying new income opportunities.
• This is an exciting opportunity to influence Saferworld’s fundraising and programme development approach during a pivotal period for the organisation. The role will line-manage a small team across programme development, philanthropy and funding.

Key responsibilities

• As part of Saferworld’s senior leadership, you will support organisation-wide initiatives and contribute to strategic decision-making. You will monitor funding trends, identify emerging issues relevant to Saferworld’s work and partnership approaches, and develop appropriate strategies to respond.
• Working closely with the Senior Operations Team, you will ensure funding plans are developed across business units and thematic/regional areas, and that income pipelines are maintained while quality assurance and active cost recovery are proactively pursued. You will oversee the funding and prospects pipeline, produce data and analysis to support decision-making, and provide regular reporting to senior leaders and the Board.
• Externally, you will represent Saferworld with key donors, partners and networks, building strategic relationships and identifying funding opportunities.
• You will lead the development, implementation and monitoring of Saferworld’s funding strategy, ensuring a balanced, ethical and diverse portfolio of restricted and unrestricted income streams. This will include securing quality funding against agreed targets and supporting income diversification through trusts and foundations, commercial funding, and other sources.
• You will work closely with Saferworld’s Grant Management Team to ensure a coordinated and strategic approach to donor relationship management and cultivation. You will also lead the design of multi-country and thematic proposals, as well as consortia bid development, to strengthen partnerships and support new ways of resourcing Saferworld’s strategy.
• The post-holder will set standards for collaborative and participatory programme design, manage proposal development processes from opportunity notice to contract signing, and ensure learning from donor feedback is used to strengthen our fundraising approach.
• You will lead the Funding Leadership Team to ensure cross-organisational ownership of fundraising efforts, and work closely with regional, thematic, policy and grant management colleagues throughout the funding cycle.

People and leadership

• You will line-manage the Funding and Programme Development Team and foster an environment where staff feel empowered, take responsibility and are accountable for achieving organisational objectives.
• You will ensure the team facilitates strong participatory programme design and proposal development with partners and staff, embedding Saferworld’s organisational values and principles. You will also support the team to work closely with colleagues across the organisation, grounding proposals in learning, evidence and evaluation findings.

About you

• You will bring proven senior leadership experience in funding, with a track record of developing and implementing funding strategies and raising income through a range of donors, including individuals, institutions, trusts and foundations. You will also have experience securing high-value contracts and grants of seven figures.
• You will have strong experience of leading complex participatory programme design, including developing budgets, monitoring frameworks and proposals. You will be confident coordinating programme development processes with multiple teams and partners to ensure a collaborative and inclusive approach.
• You will have a proven track record of motivating, mentoring and managing a team, and supporting that team to think creatively about fundraising. You will also be confident developing networks, building alliances, and nurturing relationships with individuals, collaborators and funders.
• You will bring a strong understanding of key political, development and humanitarian trends and debates, particularly linked to peacebuilding, development, human rights, governance, and security and justice. You will also have sound knowledge of UK civil society and charity regulatory requirements, and an understanding of the current international aid, peacebuilding and human rights funding environment.
• Experience of working and/or living in conflict-affected contexts, and understanding of peacebuilding and conflict prevention, are desirable.

Skills and qualities

• You will have excellent leadership and management skills, including strategic planning and business development. You will be able to provide sound financial and compliance advice, demonstrate good financial stewardship, and bring a creative, proactive approach to your work.
• You will be able to set priorities while working under pressure, adjust to multiple demands and shifting priorities, and move between hands-on involvement in proposal writing and strategic oversight.
• You will bring strong communication skills, including experience of communicating across cultures and with diverse audiences. You will understand the power imbalances that may be reflected in programme design and budgeting, and bring a strong commitment to inclusive processes and to shifting power and resources to partners.
• You will be committed to Saferworld’s vision, mission and values, including equality, diversity and safeguarding. You will be able to lead by example and create a safe and respectful environment for all staff.

Application process

• Please apply through our vacancy portal on the Saferworld Jobs website.
• Upload your CV and a covering letter addressing the person specification and explaining why your experience matches the requirements of the role.

Deadline for applications: 3 August 2026
Interviews planned: Week commencing 10 August 2026