Finance And Operations Director Jobs in Farringdon, 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.
Doctors of the World UK (DOTW UK) is part of the global Médecins du Monde (MDM) network, which delivers over 400 projects in more than 70 countries through 6,000 volunteers.
Our vision is of a world in which vulnerable people affected by war, natural disasters, disease, hunger, poverty, or exclusion get the healthcare they need.
Through our health programmes and advocacy, we work to ensure excluded people overcome barriers to realising their right to healthcare. Since opening in the UK in 1998, we’ve raised £10m for overseas programmes, helped 20,000 service users here and fought for healthcare as a human right for all.
We believe that every person living in the UK has the right to healthcare, and we work to influence public policy and local implementation to reduce health inequalities and ensure access to healthcare for all.
DOTWUK have a fun and friendly finance team in a small, but high-performing function and are looking for a collaborative, experienced and energetic leader for the role of Head of Finance.
In this exciting role, the successful candidate will provide the organisation with a timely, accurate and relevant financial management service by assuming day-to-day responsibility for the organisation’s accounting function, to enable the senior management team and the Board of Trustees to assess results and performance and make informed, strategic decisions, and ensure the organisation complies with statutory and corporate regulation and requirements.
You will work closely with the treasurer, directors and managers to enable them to manage their programme finances and support them to report to donors and to devise sound plans for growth and sustainability.
The UK chapter expects to grow income across all sources, including from institutions and foundations. You will play a critical role in maintaining and building on this success.
You will also be responsible for and provide input from a financial and management perspective on strategic development and the general organisation-wide structure and management as part of the Senior Management Team.
Those with lived experience of migration, the asylum system, homelessness, or exclusion from health services are encouraged to apply.
For more information on the role, including a person specification, please refer to the role profile.
Closing Date:
Sunday 9th June 2024
How to Apply
To apply, please submit your CV, covering Letter & additional information form on the link provided. Your CV and cover letter should be clearly tailored to the position and should reference points from the person specification section of the role profile. Interview dates TBC.
Applications which do not demonstrate the essential skills, knowledge, experience, and competencies will not be shortlisted.
We work tirelessly to empower excluded people to access healthcare.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
INTRODUCTION TO THE ROLE
Girls Not Brides is the only global organisation uniquely focused on creating and sustaining a worldwide movement to end child marriage and ensuring that this movement leads to tangible change for the girls at risk or affected by the practice. We are a network of over 1,400 civil society organisations in over 100 countries working in partnership to end child marriage. Our vision is a world without child marriage where girls and women enjoy equal status with boys and men and are able to achieve their full potential in all aspects of their lives. Our vision challenges deeply embedded social norms that harm the lives of girls, women and their communities.
The Director of External Engagement at Girls Not Brides devises and oversees implementation of fundraising, communications, advocacy & campaigns strategy to help realise Girls Not Brides’ vision of a world free of child marriage, where girls and women enjoy equal status to boys and men and can fulfil their potential in every aspect of their lives. Uses leadership skills and extensive experience of global and local fundraising, communications, campaigns and advocacy to support the organisation’s strategic objectives - movement building, influencing and learning - to empower others, opening spaces for voices to be raised, and drive transformational change. Works as part of a globally-dispersed and diverse team, and closely with members, National Partnerships and coalitions. Contributes to the organisational strategy as a member of the Senior Leadership Team.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES OF THE ROLE
Strategic planning and organisational leadership
- Lead the implementation of the Secretariat’s communications, advocacy and fundraising strategies which deliver on the vision, mission and goals set out in the Secretariat and Partnership strategies, 2022-25.
- Set out how the team will use creative campaigning tactics, targeted policy and advocacy,impactful communications and fundraisning to help build the movement to end child marriage, influence those with power to make change, and share evidence and learning.
- Contribute to broad organisational leadership and strategic development, as a member of the Senior Leadership Team.
- Lead the communications, advocacy and fundraising teams, with up to five direct line reports, plus dotted line responsibilities.
- Responsible for planning and monitoring the directorate’s budget
- Advise and inform the CEO, Board and other key stakeholders around key communications, advocacy and campaigns moments.
Empowered communications
- Support the globally-dispersed Girls Not Brides communications team to work with members to find and tell stories of girls’ lives and of the latest evidence and learning that exemplify the realities of child marriage and the solutions; demonstrate that change is needed, and change is happening.
- Work with the Communications team to leverage a wide range of communications channels, including media, website, social media, and events to convey the key messages and findings from Girls Not Brides’ work in a way that enables those without power to be heard, and convinces those with power to support positive change for girls.
- Oversee and explore ways of landing Girls Not Brides stories and policy and campaign asks at the local, national, regional and international level in a way that is context specific and impactful. Be creative and unconventional in your use of content and tactics to reach, engage and influence target audiences.
- Lead the communications team in inspiring audiences to support and join the movement to end child marriage and Girls Not Brides, through documenting and showcasing the results of collective action and developing compelling calls to collective action.
- Oversee the work of the communications team to hone and harness the potential of the Girls Not Brides brand, history, and global network to inspire change and increase member engagement.
Effective advocacy
- Oversee and facilitate direct and indirect engagements with policymakers and decision makers at the local, national, regional and global level, as well as those who influence and advise to take action to end child marriage.
- Lead on ensuring strong synergies between advocacy at national, regional and global levels, coordinatoring between advocacy team members in the regions and the global advocacy team.
- Lead global stakeholder engagement including working with relevant UN organisations, sector leaders, and thematic international organisations to ensure that child marriage is reflected in their policies, budgets and programming.
- Lead Girls Not Brides sector integration agenda, maintain strong existing partnerships, and identify new allies to enhance broader sector integration of ending child marriage.
- Support colleagues, National Partnerships and members to develop and use advocacy skills, and monitor, analyse, influence and respond to relevant legislative and policy opportunities at the global, regional and national level.
- Oversee production and dissemination of policy and advocacy content including fact sheets, policy briefs, updates, and position statements.
- Oversee trainings and development programmes for the secretariat and global partnership, including webinars and learning series.
Transformational campaigns
- Grow and strengthen the movement, harness its potential, ensure Girls Not Brides connects, empowers and amplifies diverse groups around the world united behind a shared cause.
- Oversee Girls Not Brides’ work with local groups, activists, girls and their families to use campaigning and engagement to shift socio-cultural attitudes, including among elders and community leaders, about how girls can and should expect to be treated, respected and empowered.
- Work with the Adovocay team to identify and plan for at least four big moments in the year, either at the global, regional or national level where members of the wider movement can come together to collaborate for change, engage young activists, and support and learn from each other.
- Work closely with the Development and Outreach team to support and deploy champions, ambassadors, youth leaders and high-profile influencers to advance the cause of ending child marriage.
Impactful fundraising
- Direct and lead the implementation of Girls Not Brides’ global and regional fundraising strategy for the secretariat and the wider movement, to ensure a diverse and sustainable income portfolio.
- Lead the creation and diversification of a business development plan, targeting new actors such as businesses, high-net-worth individuals, legacies, etc.
- Lead the cultivation and strengthening of donor relationships, alongside the CEO, to bring in new funding and grant renewals, build donors as champions.
- Oversee and ensure long term projection for income, also overseeing pipeline and prospecting and directing the development of concept notes and proposals.
- Oversee the development of a case for support, multi-year funding opportunities.
- Make recommendations to the CEO in relation to funding decisions, and sign off documents for donors in line with delegated responsibilities.
- Close liaison with CEO, Director of Operations and Finance to help develop annual budgets, targets and a sustainable growth model.
- Direct the development of donor communications and assets, including but not limited to annual reports and promotional materials.
- Assume responsibility for quality assurance on donor communications and collaborations.
- Contribute to the finance team’s work on contracting and compliance.
Influential outreach and visibility
- Lead the development of a strategic approach to building the secretariat’s visibility, partnerships and profile.
- Oversee the identification of strategic opportunities (including trips, events and media appearances) to profile the voices of Girls Not Brides’ internal leaders and external stakeholders to advocate on ending child marriage.
- Oversee the planning and convening of Girls Not Brides’ events and meetings calendar, as well as the high-profile visits to high prevalence and donor countries by the CEO, Champions, and Trustees.
- Alongside the CEO, lead and deepen the partnerships with the Girls First Fund and VOW for Girls at the global level.
- Oversee and lead the development and outreach team’s work to support and deploy champions, advisors, ambassadors, youth leaders and high-profile influencers to advance the cause of ending child marriage across sectors (including politics, business, grassroots activists and NGOs).
- Represent Girls Not Brides externally and further cultivate Girls Not Brides’ network of funders, supporters, Champions and Advisors.
Wider Organisational Responsibilities
- Commit to the mission and vision of Girls Not Brides, putting these at the forefront of all planning, work and actions.
- Uphold the core values of Girls Not Brides in all areas of work and interactions with colleagues, members, partners and other stakeholders.
- Line manage roles and consultants as necessary, delegating responsibilities and tasks as appropriate.
- Comply with Girls Not Brides policies and processes, with particular note for safeguarding, diversity and inclusion, the code of conduct and data protection.
- Prepare and deliver reports for the Senior Leadership Team and Board of Trustees, as necessary.
- Ensure that internal databases and monitoring information are kept fully up-to-date.
- Commit to ongoing personal development and learning.
- Fulfil any other reasonable requests for the advancement of Girls Not Brides.
PERSON SPECIFICATION
Essential experience
- Significant professional experience in a comparable role at a senior level in the not-for-profit sector, international/intergovernmental organisation or social enterprise.
- Degree-level qualification in a relevant area such as public policy, development studies, international relations, communications, human rights or gender issues or proven experience in a related field plus extensive relevant professional training.
- Proven experience of working with coalitions and the ability to inform international policy discussions with the realities of grass-roots work.
- A proven track record of successfully developing and implementing a fundraising strategy and raising significant levels of funding for an organisation.
- Broad experience in communications, development and outreach work, building and nurturing strong working relationships with a range of strategic partners.
- Experience of partnership building with stakeholders such as government ministries, NGOs, foundations, grass-roots groups, and champions of social change.
- Proven experience of working with coalitions and the ability to inform international communications with the realities of grass-roots work.
- Experience of successfully managing teams, including geographically dispersed staff.
Essential skills and knowledge
- Advanced and demonstrable understanding of strategic planning, resource mobilisation and communications.
- Demonstrated ability and understanding of how to deliver effective advocacy and/or communications and/or fundraising, development and outreach strategies on global social issues that align with and further an organisation’s strategic goals.
- Excellent strategic thinking and practical planning ability.
- Exceptional written and oral communication skills, including the ability to work with a diverse range of actors at different levels and from different cultural contexts.
- Confident networker and influencer with the ability to represent Girls Not Brides at high-level events.
- A strong understanding and ability to contribute to the advancement of Diversity, Equality and Inclusion (DEI) at organisational and partnership levels.
Desirable
- Experience managing or supporting organisational change processes.
- Advanced knowledge of French and/or Spanish is highly desirable.
- Direct experience of advocating or campaigning on child marriage or closely related issues
We believe in a world without child marriage, where girls and women enjoy equal status with boys and men, and can achieve their full potential.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Who we are:
Muslim Aid is a UK faith-based international development organisation that provides support to communities around the world affected by disasters, conflict, or endemic poverty without regard to their social, religious, or ethnic background.
Established in 1985, Muslim Aid has facilitated the engagement of the British Muslim and non-Muslim community in support of its work in a variety of ways. Over the years, its humanitarian work has included responses to major crises around the world including, famine in East Africa, earthquakes and flooding in Pakistan and Bangladesh as well as conflicts in Syria and Yemen.
Summary of Role:
Join Muslim Aid as the Director of Operations to steer our strategic alignment and operational excellence across global initiatives. Reporting directly to the CEO and collaborating with senior directors, you will play a crucial role in overseeing our International Programmes, Income Generation and Marketing departments. This position is based in London and is a vital part of our mission to deliver impactful, efficient, and accountable operations worldwide.
About the Role:
- Work alongside the CEO and senior leadership to craft and execute strategic plans, ensuring it aligns with our broader goals.
- Prepare and present comprehensive operational reports at board meetings and committee meetings throughout the year, offering strategic insights and recommendations.
- Oversee the management of the Head of International Programmes and Head of Income Generation and Marketing, ensuring strategies and operations align with overall goals of Muslim Aid.
- Oversee the operational budget, guaranteeing resources are distributed with efficiency and effectiveness to uphold strategic priorities.
- Ensure compliance with all legal, regulatory, and funding requirements, maintaining high standards of accountability.
- Ensure operational efficiency and effectiveness across all programmatic and departmental activities, implementing good practices and seeking opportunities for innovation and improvement.
About You:
- Proven experience in a leadership role within the non-profit sector, preferably in an international context.
- Experience in overseeing programmatic and income generation activities, demonstrating the ability to integrate these functions effectively.
- Proven experience in successfully raising funds from diverse income streams such as grants, donations, sponsorships, events, and partnerships.
- Experience in managing diverse teams and complex projects across multiple countries and contexts.
- Proven experience in change management and driving organisational development initiatives.
- Proven financial management skills, including budgeting, forecasting, and reporting.
Why You Should Apply:
Seize the opportunity to make a significant impact on the world with Muslim Aid. As our Director of Operations, you will not only lead key strategic initiatives but also inspire a team dedicated to operational excellence and global humanitarian efforts. This role is your chance to leverage your leadership and strategic skills in an environment that values innovation and commitment to community service. Join us to be at the forefront of change, empowering communities and making a real difference in the lives of those who need it most. Together, we can achieve remarkable things and create a legacy of compassion and integrity.
Benefits you will enjoy if you work for us:
- 37 days holiday (including Bank Holidays and Privilege days)
- Hybrid working (working in office 2 days a week)
- Paid time off for medical appointments
- 2 hours lunch break on Fridays
- Time off in Lieu (TOIL)
How to apply:
To apply please submit your cover letter (no more than 1 page) and CV.
Job Purpose and Summary
- To provide strategic financial leadership through strategic planning and robust reporting to ensure financial sustainability and facilitate growth of the organisation in order to maximise impact, in line with charitable objectives.
- To act as company secretary and provide oversight of IT.
Responsible to CEO
Direct Reports 2-4 x Finance admin and 1 x IT
Location Remote, with minimum one day per week in office with team (location flexible)
Hours Flexible (as required to do job effectively).
% FTE 0.8 to 1.0 FTE
FTE salary range Senior Leadership Team Scale (£55-65k per annum)
Scope Across Bild Group (Bild, Bild Association of Certified Training and Restraint Reduction Network)
Key Responsibilities and Accountabilities
Responsible for:
- Financial oversight and leadership.
- Providing robust financial information to inform and improve operational management and decision making to further the charities’ objectives.
- Ensuring financial sustainability of the charity and facilitate growth and development to further charitable aims.
- Ensuring appropriate financial probity and controls in place.
- Financial planning including budgeting and forecasting.
- Financial reporting including monthly management accounts so that Directors and Trustees understand the financial health of the organisation.
- Financial compliance including with HMRC and Charity Commission.
- Facilitating Finance Sub Committee of the board, in coordination with Treasurer.
- Support Chair of Finance Sub Committee in providing assurance to the Trustees in relation to financial strategy, performance and financial sustainability.
- Effectively management of financial risks as part of organisational approach to risk management.
- Appraising the financial viability of plans, proposals, and feasibility studies.
- Monitoring and reporting on the financial health of the organisation.
- Oversight of and being responsible for the preparation and submission of all statutory financial accounts and returns.
- Ensuring effective Payroll function and Pension scheme.
- Effective procurement procedures to ensure services are best value for money.
- Ensuring effective financial audit.
- Maintaining positive and healthy cash position.
- Leading, with support from CEO, on commercial decisions including pricing.
- Identifying efficiencies to ensure the lean operation of the organisation.
- Timely completion of all Statutory returns.
Business:
- Act as Company Secretary supporting trustees to ensure all legal and statutory compliance with Charitable Articles and Charity Commission requirements.
- Oversight and continuous improvement of IT (and data) systems (with support from out-sourced IT support) to ensure efficient and effective workflow across the organisation.
- As business manager, lead on risk management and KPI dashboard reporting to trustees and Finance Sub Committee.
Person Specification
Qualifications
- Qualified accountant (CCAB/CIMA/ACCA) (essential)
Experience
- At least 5 years’ experience as an accountant (essential)
- At least 3 years’ senior leadership experience (essential)
- At least 3 years’ experience managing a staff team (essential)
- At least 3 years’ experience in registered charity OR health and social care (essential)
- At least 2 years’ experience of working at Board level (desirable)
- Significant experience of both accounting and financial management environment.
Competencies
- Proven ability to present financial information in accessible format.
- Proven ability to think and plan strategically and commercially.
- Proven ability to interpret financial reports and advise on any appropriate action required.
- Ability to communicate financial information clearly and accurately.
- Proven track record of facilitating growth and development.
- Proven track record of facilitating continuous improvement.
- Proven track record of successfully implementing new IT systems.
- Good understanding of IT systems including AccountsIQ (or equivalent finance systems) and Salesforce (or equivalent CRM system).
- Positive and solution focused thinking.
- High integrity and openness combined with commitment to good governance.
- Proven ability to develop positive relationships across the organisation and with external partners.
- Proven track record of effective collaborative and partnership working with CEO / Treasurer.
- Track record of effective leadership skills including as acting as a role model within an organisation, promoting positive culture and living the organisational values.
- A commitment to human rights and inclusion of people with disabilities.
- Demonstrate values congruent to Bild values.
Further information
- All staff at Bild are required to treat sensitive material confidentially and comply with data protection legislation.
- All staff working at Bild are required to read and comply with required policies, including health and safety policy.
- Job descriptions may be reviewed after 6-month probation and at annual performance review.
Application and Closing Date
Applications are invited by CV and covering letter.
Closing date is 5pm on Monday 27 May 2024
Equal Opportunities
Bild strives to be an equal opportunities employer. In working towards this aim no employee, or job applicant will receive less favourable treatment on the grounds of their role, gender, age, disability, race, nationality, ethnic or national origin, colour, sexual orientation, domestic circumstances, social and employment status, gender reassignment, privately held political opinion, trade union membership, religious or similar philosophical belief, or disadvantaged by conditions or requirements which cannot be shown to be justifiable.
Bild is committed to ensuring all employees have fair and non-discriminatory systems for recruiting or accessing training to enhance the development or promotion of staff.
Robertson Bell are seeking a dynamic and experienced Director of Finance and Operations to join this small but mighty charity! This pivotal role will provide strategic financial leadership, overseeing financial management, IT systems, and operational efficiency to ensure the financial sustainability and growth of the organisation in alignment with its charitable objectives.
The Director of Finance and Operations will report into the CEO and manage a small team of three. The successful post holder will spend the majority of their time on finance and governance processes and matters as well as holding oversight of the outsourced IT contract acting as the main point of contact.
Duties for this role will include:
- Provide robust financial information for operational management and decision-making.
- Ensure financial sustainability and facilitate growth to further charitable aims.
- Maintain financial probity, controls, and compliance with HMRC and Charity Commission.
- Lead budgeting, forecasting, and financial reporting to the Board of Directors and Trustees.
- Manage financial risks and appraise the viability of plans and proposals.
- Ensure effective payroll, pension scheme management, and procurement procedures.
- Lead commercial decisions in collaboration with the CEO.
- Act as Company Secretary, ensuring legal and statutory compliance.
- Oversee and enhance IT systems to optimize organisational workflow.
This position will be offered on a home working contract however attendance to key meetings will be required. These meetings will happen mostly across London and Birmingham with all travel expenses paid for. This Director of Finance and Operations will mostly suit candidates that have previously worked in a small sized not for profit organisation.
The successful candidate will:
- Be a fully qualified accountant (CCAB/CIMA/ACCA).
- Be experience managing teams.
- Ideally have proven experience in the charity sector.
- Have the ability to present financial information.
For more information on this role please don’t hesitate in applying!
Rainforest Foundation UK (RFUK) strives for a fairer and more sustainable world by working with frontline Indigenous Peoples and other communities in the fight against tropical deforestation, biodiversity loss and climate change.
We are seeking an Operations Officer with a diverse skill set to effectively manage RFUK’s premises, IT infrastructure, HR coordination, and overall administrative functions. This role plays a pivotal role in supporting senior management and all staff in advancing our critical mission.
We encourage candidates of varying experience levels to apply, particularly those with a proactive mindset, a "can-do" attitude, and a knack for problem-solving. This role offers an opportunity for growth and development, making it ideal for someone who is eager to learn and contribute to our organisation's success.
Person specifications
We seek a dynamic individual who is adaptable and proactive, with a strong problem-solving ability. Exceptional organisational and time management skills are essential, enabling autonomy and proficient handling of multiple deadlines. Effective communication and interpersonal skills are crucial for cultivating excellent relationships within our international team and external stakeholders.
We encourage all interested candidates to apply, even if they believe they may not fully meet all the requirements. Applicants are encouraged to elaborate on their suitability for the role in their cover letter.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Director of Finance and Resources
Together for Mental Wellbeing
£87,550
Full-time, permanent
London and remote
Together for Mental Wellbeing is the UK’s oldest mental health charity. Since 1879, we have believed that people experiencing mental distress have the right to live the life they choose and determine their own future.
We offer a wide variety of support services and the people we work alongside are at the heart of everything we do. We currently work with around 5,000 adults every month via 70 projects throughout England, but we aspire to reach many more people through our five year strategy.
Having just launched our new strategy for 2024-2029, we are excited about our future, and through the fantastic commitment and dedication of everyone who works at Together, we will achieve our vision of continuing to be a recognized charity leader in its field delivering high quality mental health, wellbeing and support services.
As our Director of Finance and Resources, you will play a critical leadership role in the ongoing transformation and financial sustainability of Together, ensuring the conditions for our future success. You will be a key advisor to the Chief Executive, the treasurer Trustee and the Board of Trustees in delivering our ambitions for the future, developing and driving innovative, up-to-date and well-planned corporate solutions that shape our Finance, ICT and estates and property management.
An experienced and qualified senior finance professional with strategic and operational level expertise, you will be a collaborative and inclusive leader, who will work across your functions and beyond to leverage the overall performance of the organisation. You will have significant experience of driving change and building, motivating and inspiring teams. You will be a rigorous, clear thinker who acts with integrity, personally promotes equality, diversity and inclusion and who understands that people who use our services are at the heart of everything we do.
We have a firm commitment to empowering a culture of equity, diversity, inclusion and belonging at Together for the people we work alongside in our services and for our workforce of staff and volunteers. We particularly welcome applications from people who identify as having a disability and those from Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic backgrounds.
Closing date: Monday 10th June
First interviews: Week beginning 17th June
Final interviews Friday 28th June
About the role
(For further details regarding the role and specific qualifications required, please consult the Job Description.)
Rainforest Foundation UK (RFUK) strives for a fairer and more sustainable world by working with frontline Indigenous Peoples and other communities in the fight against tropical deforestation, biodiversity loss and climate change.
We are looking for a Head of Operations & Compliance to join our growing team, offering a unique opportunity to contribute to a unique values-led, solutions-orientated organisation.
Reporting directly to the Executive Director and serving as a vital member of the Senior Management Team (SMT), you'll oversee regulatory compliance, optimise internal and operational systems, manage risks, execute operational plans, and embody our organisational values. This multifaceted role encompasses leadership, strategy, and staff management, as well as an awareness of the needs of a small but growing charity.
Person specifications
We seek a dynamic individual with a minimum of five years of senior operations/compliance experience, demonstrating strategic thinking, strong governance and regulatory knowledge, and operational leadership and management skills.
Candidates should possess excellent communication and collaboration skills, exhibit multitasking and strong organisational abilities, demonstrate adaptability and proactive problem-solving skills, and pay meticulous attention to detail.
We encourage all interested candidates to apply, even if they believe they may not fully meet all the requirements. Applicants are encouraged to elaborate on their suitability for the role in their cover letter.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
King’s College London offers an intellectually stimulating environment, where staff are dedicated to the advancement of knowledge and learning in the service of society. We are a multi-faculty institution, providing high-quality research, education and innovation across the social sciences, humanities, health, law, dentistry, and sciences. As a member of the Russell Group, we are committed to maintaining the highest standards in research and education.
The Finance, Procurement, Strategic Planning and Analytics directorate, led by the Chief Financial Officer / VP (Finance), comprises c.150 roles located across our campuses in central London. The Finance department of c.100 roles provides various accounting, assurance, advisory, decision support and financial processing functions for the whole university.
The Director of Finance Business Partnering (Operations) is a critical role within the Financial Strategy, Planning & Performance division that will lead, develop and deliver high quality finance business partnering and decision support to all the central services of the university, including providing financial planning, reporting and insight across revenue and capital funded activity.
You will support the senior Director of the Financial Strategy, Planning & Performance function in development and improvement projects. Examples include the development of a professional competencies framework to support career progression and performance at all levels, supported by learning and development opportunities, improving key processes, resource allocation and financial planning methodologies, and reporting on financial performance.
As part of the function’s senior management team, this role will lead a team of finance business partners who will provide outstanding partnering services to our central services including large functions such as Estates and Facilities, IT, Students & Education, Research Management and on other crucial ‘head office’ activities. Working closely with the corporate reporting team on the provision of management accounts, you will lead on financial performance support in-year and across our three-year financial planning framework. You will also undertake and provide professional support to your team on business partnering skills, financial modelling, business case development and financial appraisals. You will play a wider role as a senior member of the finance leadership team on cross-college initiatives and be asked to deputise for the senior Director of the division or their peers.
It is an exciting time to join the university as we are making a step change in our support and advice, particularly to directorate heads and our Senior Vice Principal (Operations), and onwards through the leadership roles across the central service directorates where financial and operational decisions are made.
This is a full time post (36 Hours per week), and you will be offered an indefinite contract. We work in a hybrid way and there is an expectation of being able to work at least three days a week in our offices to help facilitate a collaborative working culture.
To be successful in this role, we are looking for candidates to have the following skills and experience:
Essential criteria
1. Professional Accountancy Qualification
2. Highly resilient with the ability to run multiple objectives, large senior teams and complex political processes concurrently
3. Exceptional understanding of running and leading financial planning, monitoring, forecasting and business partnering in a complex and large organisation
4. Exceptional leadership skills and a service approach in your professional work
5. Ability to operate and deliver change and improvements in a complex organisational environment
6. Exceptional business case financial appraisal and modelling skills
7. Ability to communicate clearly and effectively in the written word and in person in a variety of formats including committee presentations and policy documentation
8. Numerate and IT literate with the ability to use the standard suite of office software together with excellent knowledge of one or more corporate finance/ERP and reporting systems
9. Significant recent experience of leading business partnering, financial support and advice functions and services
10. Experience of designing, delivering and improving capital planning and reporting processes
11. Leading teams to achieve complex and competing objectives over a variety of time horizons in partnership with other technical leads and partnered areas.
12. Ability to build and manage internal and external relationships
13. Self-management and ability to work independently to meet deadlines
14. Attention to detail and working to a high-level of accuracy
Desirable criteria
1. Degree level qualification
2. Leadership of technical / professional staff who manage their own work and activities
3. Experience of having worked in or with the university sector
We pride ourselves on being inclusive and welcoming. We embrace diversity and want everyone to feel that they belong and are connected to others in our community.
We are committed to working with our staff and unions on these and other issues, to continue to support our people and to develop a diverse and inclusive culture at King's. We have a strong equality, diversity and inclusion agenda and would expect the post holder to demonstrate these values.
We ask all candidates to submit a copy of their CV, and a supporting statement, detailing how they meet the essential criteria listed in the advert. The deadline for applications is Sunday 19th May 2024. If you would like to discuss the role, please get in touch with Bryony Thomas via the Allen Lane agency website.
Shortlisting will complete late May and may include an initial conversation with Allen Lane, our recruitment partner for this role. First stage interviews with King’s College London are planned for early June.
We are not able to offer sponsorship for candidates for this role who do not currently possess the right to work in the UK.
INTRODUCTION TO GIRLS NOT BRIDES
Girls Not Brides is the only global organisation uniquely focused on creating and sustaining a worldwide movement to end child, early and forced marriage and unions (CEFMU) and ensuring that this movement leads to tangible change for the girls at risk or affected by the practice. We are a network of more than 1,400 civil society organisations in over 100 countries working in partnership to end child marriage.
Our vision is a world without child marriage where girls and women enjoy equal status with boys and men and can achieve their full potential in all aspects of their lives. Our vision challenges deeply embedded social norms that harm the lives of girls, women and their communities.
INTRODUCTION TO THE ROLE
The Director of People and Culture leads on fostering a positive work environment in order to help develop a strong organisational culture, providing high quality leadership and oversight on the development and delivery of Girls Not Brides’ People and Culture strategy. The post holder facilitates an organisational culture that supports an ambitious and diverse workforce that demonstrates clear commitment to Girls Not Brides values, mission, and vision, drawing up our principles around collaboration and partnership.
As a people and culture senior level professional, you will have an evidential understanding of all aspects of HR practices, both UK and International. This is a pivotal role supporting the transformation of Girls Not Brides, leading the delivery of a workforce strategy that ensures we have a stable, sustainable, skilled, dynamic, and diverse workforce capable of delivering the goals of the organisation. You will be someone who can balance creativity with pragmatism, and expertise with a desire to learn, and a demonstrable alignment with our commitment to championing well-being, diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI). The role contributes to and plays a critical role in broad organisational leadership and strategic development, partnering with the senior leadership team in strategic decision-making.
Job location
London, UK (hybrid with up to three days on site per week). May include international travel.
Accountable to
Chief Executive Officer
Salary range
£70,560 (subject to benchmarking) rising on an annual incremental basis. Girls Not Brides also offers a generous 10% pension.
Contract
This is a full-time two-year fixed term contract. The successful candidate must have the right to work in the United Kingdom at the time of applying, and for the full duration of the two-year initial contract.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
Strategic Planning and Organisational Leadership
• Lead the development and implementation of Girls Not Brides’ people and culture strategies to deliver on the vision, mission and goals set out in the Secretariat and Partnership strategies, 2022-2025.
• Lead the creation of an inclusive organisational culture, values, plans, and HR policies that are rooted in and informed by a deep commitment to the values of Girls Not Brides and to diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI).
• Contribute to broad organisational leadership and strategic development, as a member of the Senior Leadership Team (SLT).
• Advise and inform the CEO, Board and SLT colleagues on strategic issues relating to Human Resources, People management and organisational culture.
• Responsible for planning and monitoring the directorate’s budget.
Talent Acquisition
• Lead the development and implementation of Girls Not Brides’ people management and acquisition strategies to deliver on the vision.
• Oversee the development of strategies to identify talent; establish and oversee equitable and inclusive recruitment and hiring processes for all employees.
• Oversee the development of a comprehensive onboarding and staff orientation strategy.
• Oversee offboarding of staff, including exit interviews; analyse data to surface potential cultural issues or other staff concerns; make recommendations to the SLT for continuous improvements.
• Support line managers to proactively identify new leaders and build opportunities for growth.
Staff Well-Being
• Lead on the development and implementation of a staff well-being policy and oversee the effective use of processes for day-to-day provision across the organisation.
• Oversee development and implementation of programmes, initiatives, and ideas to enhance and maintain staff well-being across the organisation.
• To provide leadership, direction and co-ordination for the Employee Assistance Programme (EAP) and staff support services, including occupational health.
Organisational Culture
• Oversee the review and implementation of organisational core values that guide the organisation’s policies and procedures.
• Oversee the implementation of policies and programmes that ensure diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) in the organisations.
• Oversee development and dissemination of HR policies and procedures that maintain and improve employee relations and shape organisational culture.
• Communicate openly and frequently, keeping staff informed on benefits, resources, organisational events, and other pertinent information.
• Oversee the management and appropriate resolution of complex employee relations issues; where applicable, commission and support effective, thorough, and objective investigations.
Regulatory and Compliance
• Provide leadership and direction to ensure compliance with all statutory employment related law and regulations.
• Maintain in-depth knowledge of changing employment regulations and implement policies, procedures, and systems to ensure regulatory compliance and reduce the organisation’s employment law risks.
• Oversee and lead the review of human resources information systems (HRIS) to ensure they are fit for purpose and support strategic thinking and direction. Apply relevant organisational/human resources metrics; contribute information, analysis, and recommendations to strategic thinking and direction.
Professional Development and performance
• Assess organisational needs with the SLT to identify professional learning and growth opportunities to support employees’ ongoing professional development.
• Steward a culture of learning and growth.
• Implement a standard of supervision grounded in inclusive leadership practices such as building strong relationships, active listening, clear and transparent communication, consistent and timely feedback and clear expectations.
• Ensure coaching and resources are provided to help build interpersonal and team resilience, address conflicts and adapt to different leadership styles.
Compensation and Benefit Management
• Develop and ensure the administration of a consistent, equitable, and progressive compensation program including salary surveys and market research to ensure Girls Not Brides is competitive within our market and in line with our budget.
• Monitor budgets for recruiting, training/staff development, and benefits programs in partnership with the Director of Operations & Finance.
• Oversee all HR functions including benefits programs; have oversight of/lead relationships with benefit providers, coordinate annual staff forums and address employee benefits questions; propose additional benefit options pertinent to the organisation’s workforce in partnership with the Director of Operations & Finance.
Wider contributions to the team
• Commit to the mission and vision of Girls Not Brides, putting these at the forefront of all planning, work, and actions.
• Uphold the core values of Girls Not Brides in all areas of work and interactions with colleagues, members, partners, and other stakeholders.
• Line manages employees and consultants as necessary, delegating responsibilities and tasks appropriate.
• Comply with Girls Not Brides’ policies and processes, with note for safeguarding, diversity and inclusion, the code of conduct and data protection.
• Commit to ongoing personal development and learning.
• Fulfil any other reasonable requests for the advancement of Girls Not Brides.
PERSON SPECIFICATION
Essential experience
• Significant professional experience in a similar role in the international not-for-profit sector, international/intergovernmental organisation, or social enterprise.
• Qualified HR professional.
• Significant HR generalist experience, with extensive exposure to benefit administration, employee relations, performance management, recruitment, Human Resources Information Systems (HRIS), and training and development.
• Experience supporting a diverse workforce, including working in international contexts (e.g. a globally diverse workforce).
• Demonstrated leadership skills.
• Highly relational and able to build strong connections and relationships across differences.
• Proven ability to design and maintain operational systems and controls in line with best practice.
• Deep understanding of international compensation, benefits, and performance and evaluation frameworks.
• Confident and experienced in overseeing varied legal and compliance issues.
• Ability to deal with competing demands, multiple priorities, time constraints and unanticipated external events.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality.
• Experience of successfully managing teams, including geographically dispersed staff, with the ability to support and develop staff.
Essential skills and knowledge
• A deep personal and professional commitment to equity, understanding of best practices, and experience in building inclusive and engaged workplaces, cultural awareness, and sensitivity with lens on racial and gender equity.
• Familiarity with strategic planning, including compensation practices, data analysis, organisational development.
• A strong understanding and ability to contribute to the advancement of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) at organisational and partnership levels.
• Ability to deal with conflict effectively, and to manage difficult situations confidently and calmly; demonstrated ability to coach and counsel both executive-level management and employees.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills.
• Strong project management skills: ability to effectively plan, implement and manage HR programs and functions; ability to implement, explain, and apply relevant policies, procedures, laws, and regulations.
• An innovative and initiative-taking approach, with the vision and practical skills to assess, develop, improve and systems and processes.
• Proven ability to inspire and create a healthy organisational culture.
• Up-to-date knowledge of relevant UK & international employment laws and best practice in people management.
• Excellent strategic thinking and practical planning ability.
• Exceptional written and oral communication skills, including the ability to work with a diverse range of actors at different levels and from different cultural contexts.
Essential values and attributes
• Strong commitment to the mission and values of Girls Not Brides and our vision in relation to addressing child marriage and gender equality.
• Skilled team worker with an inclusive and collaborative approach.
• Proactive and able to confidently take initiative and make appropriate decisions.
• Willingness to work flexibly and regularly travel internationally, as necessary.
Desirable
• Experience managing or supporting organisational change processes.
• Relevant and direct experience implementing DEI initiatives.
• Knowledge of nonprofit administration.
Safeguarding
Girls Not Brides is committed to safeguarding all children, young people and adults at risk with whom our staff and representatives work and interface. Any employment with Girls Not Brides may be subject to the satisfactory completion of a background check and criminal records check which can include but is not limited to: an overseas police record check, a Disclosure and Barring Service Check (for those based in the UK) or an International Criminal Record Check (if applicable).
How to apply
Girls Not Brides is an equal opportunities employer. We embrace diversity, equal opportunity and inclusion in a serious way. We are committed to building a staff body that represents a variety of backgrounds, perspectives, and skills. The more inclusive we are, the better our work will be.
The closing date for this role is 23:59 BST (GMT+1) on Sunday 2 June 2024.
In-person interviews will be held on-site on Friday 14 June 2024.
To apply, please click on the ‘Apply now’ button on the job page and submit your CV and a brief cover letter demonstrating how you meet the criteria.
We regret that due to the large number of applications anticipated, only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.
We believe in a world without child marriage, where girls and women enjoy equal status with boys and men, and can achieve their full potential.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
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 is incredibly proud to be recruiting a new Chief Finance and Operations Officer for the Harris Federation. This is an amazing opportunity for a passionate finance leader who is looking to work within an organisation impacting children across London and the south east. Market leading salary and benefits on offer.
We welcome applications from all sectors, particularly applicants who have operated in highly regulated environments, and have led on ERP implementation projects.
Harris Federation seek to operate in areas with high levels of socio-economic disadvantage. In these places a high quality education is fundamental to the future success of the children they serve. They aim to disrupt the status quo, and free-up our teachers and leaders to focus on one thing and one thing only, providing an exceptional education for every child, where all children thrive and learn through engagement with an exciting, ambitious curriculum underpinned by excellent teaching.
Job Purpose
Finance
• To lead and manage the Harris Federation finance function so that Harris delivers its educational aims and objectives as well as meets all DfE and EFSA requirements
• To be responsible for the financial sustainability and development of Harris Federation and for the financial probity of the organisation
• To ensure the provision of an efficient, responsive, reliable, and effective financial service to the Harris Federation.
• To support the CEO in his role as Accounting Officer in line with the Academy Finance Handbook
• To provide strong leadership and direction to an established central finance team consisting of 35 staff), this being the led by a strong Financial Controller and the business partnering team led by a strong Head of Business Partnering
• To manage the Financial Controller and oversee the operational finance and accounts team
• To manage the Head of Finance Business Partnering and oversee relationships with key stakeholders across the academy network
Operations
• To work alongside the CEO and Directors to continue the development of an effective and efficient business model for the Harris Federation central services
• This will align with the Oracle roll out where the current operating model will require business change that will drive the efficiencies and benefits a new and sophisticated system like Oracle can bring
• To give strong leadership and direction to the central systems team (circa 6 staff), this team currently supporting the roll out of the Oracle system across HR, Payroll and Finance
• To ensure the provision of an efficient, responsive, reliable and effective systems support and development service to the Harris Federation
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as the applications come in. Don’t miss your opportunity, apply now!
About the Coalition for Global Prosperity
The Coalition for Global Prosperity (CGP) brings together political, military, business and faith leaders who believe that an effective development budget, alongside an active diplomatic and defence strategy, keeps Britain at the forefront of saving lives, alleviating poverty and bringing freedom, security and prosperity to those who need it most.
At a time when the UK's role in the world is being redefined, Britain is at its best when it acts as a global leader in development as well as in defence and diplomacy. With a smart and effective aid budget, which leverages British expertise, the UK can transform lives.
CGP brings together a wide coalition of aid supporters, with backgrounds from across the military, faith, business and political communities. We organise public and private events to explore the UK's role as a global leader. We regularly host influential figures and thought leaders to speak at our events, previously we have hosted David Attenborough, Julia Gillard, Theresa May, Gordon Brown, Boris Johnson, Bill Gates and David Cameron as speakers.
Overview / purpose of the role
We’re looking for a Finance & Operations Assistant who is interested in developing a career in bookkeeping and/or accountancy within the nonprofit sector. No previous experience is required, just lots of passion and a motivation to pursue a long-term career in charity finance. The successful candidate will undertake training with the AAT (funded by us) towards a bookkeeping qualification alongside working as our Finance & Operations Assistant, you will be given some time to study during your working hours for this qualification.
The Finance & Operations Assistant is a central resource within CGP, working with colleagues in the Operations Team, and across the organisation to provide financial and operational support to all areas of our work. They will work closely with the Head of Operations & Evaluation to process invoices, expenses and conduct weekly payment runs, ensuring that all financial policies and procedures are carefully adhered to. They will also support colleagues to follow our financial policies and processes and act as the first point of contact for any questions on these procedures. Additionally, they will provide general administrative and operational support to colleagues as outlined in the below job description.
We do not require the successful candidate to have any particular/specific formal qualifications, you may have just finished education or be looking for a change in career, what you will need is excellent attention to detail and a strong interest in developing a finance career with us.
Reporting to: Head of Operations & Evaluation
Responsibilities
Finance
● Managing our accounts payable inbox, monitoring all incoming invoices and following up with team members on any missing information if required
● Processing and coding invoices in Xero accounting software ahead of weekly payment runs
● Checking that correct coding and approval procedures are followed for staff expenses in Soldo
● Conducting weekly payment runs via our online banking system
● Coordinating our monthly payroll processes (working with external providers)
● Working with the Head of Operations & Evaluation and Director of Finance to support the development of funding proposals
● Working with the Head of Operations & Evaluation and Director of Finance to support financial reporting on grants for external donors
● Supporting the Head of Operations & Evaluation and Director of Finance with general financial administration, record keeping and tracking budgets
● Provide training on expense and invoicing processes to new members of staff and generally acting as the first point of contact for all staff on any finance procedure questions (full training will be provided)
● Supporting the Senior Management Team (SMT) and our Director of Finance to develop the annual organisational budget and report against it quarterly
● Providing budgeting support as required for colleagues internally
Office Management & General Operational Support
● Acting as the key point of contact between CGP & our coworking office space (organising memberships, meeting room bookings, invoices, printing credits, equipment, internal events etc.)
● Organising post, stationery supplies and managing stocks of office equipment
● Maintain/organise our filing and cloud storage systems logically and efficiently, in a data protection compliant manner.
● Ad hoc IT support as required, including online troubleshooting and logging support requests with service providers when necessary.
● General administrative support to the CEO and Head of Operations & Evaluation
Human Resources
● Support with recruitment processes within CGP, including assisting members of the team to schedule and coordinate job interviews, contact candidates and file incoming applications.
● Working with the Head of Operations & Evaluation to organise internal events like team away days and staff team building activities.
Person specification
The right candidate is less likely to be defined by their qualifications and prior experience, but will be someone who meets the below criteria, and is ready to learn. They will have an aptitude for maths and finance, excellent attention to detail and a meticulous, methodical approach to work and troubleshooting.
We are looking for someone who:
● Has an interest in developing a career in the nonprofit finance sector and willing to commit to undertaking financial training
● Is broadly supportive of UK Aid
● Is an independent worker, self-starter who can take responsibility for projects through to completion
● Has excellent IT skills, proficient with MS Office programmes (particularly Excel) and Google Workspace, and the ability to learn to use new software as required (for example, Xero, Soldo and Salesforce)
● Has great people skills, and the ability to build positive working relationships with colleagues and external stakeholders
To Apply:
Send a CV and cover letter outlining you’re interest in the role to the work email address specified on our website.
We review applications on a rolling basis, if interested please apply as soon as possible.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Centrepoint is the UK’s leading youth homelessness charity with a vision to end youth homelessness by 2037. We define this as making it rare, brief when it occurs, and therefore the experience of it frictional.
While pursuing this vision, Centrepoint, alongside our partners, support over 16,000 young people every year. We believe no young person’s life should be defined by homelessness.
Director of Finance and Corporate Services
Hybrid – London
£100,000 - £110,000
This is a rare and exciting opportunity to join Centrepoint and help so many marginalised young people to change their stories today and to solve an intractable problem in the future.
As the new Director of Finance and Corporate Services, you will play a critical role working alongside a dynamic and ambitious Senior Executive Team, Chief Executive Seyi Obakin and the Board of Trustees.
Our Director of Finance and Corporate Services will be instrumental in strengthening the organisation ensuring that Centrepoint is healthy and stable financially, while also considering long-term funding strategies. You will also take executive responsibility for financial operations; technology and business systems; internal audit and assurance; regulatory and professional compliance; and procurement.
We are looking for an exceptional, experienced leader who is commercially astute and a strategic thinker, at ease with promoting an insight led approach while supporting innovative ideas and translating broad goals into specific actions. You will be an excellent networker, communicator and influencer who is skilled in representing and promoting an organisation with different audiences, at different levels and in different contexts. Critically, you will be bringing demonstrable experience of initiating, leading, and delivering significant change and transformation across complex organisations.
You can come from any sector background, but a commitment to achieve impact for young people and alignment with Centrepoint’s values are critical. If you have the experience, drive and real heart for the work that we do, we would be delighted to hear from you.
Centrepoint is committed to diversifying the background of its workforce and welcomes applications regardless of sex, gender, race, age, sexuality, belief or disability.
For further information please review the appointment brief. Applications should be made via the Prospectus website using the apply link.
Application closing deadline: Monday 27th May 2024
Preliminary Interviews with Prospectus (online): w/c 3rd June 2024
1st Round Interviews with Centrepoint (London): Monday 17th June 2024
2nd Round Interview with Centrepoint (London): Wednesday 19th June 2024