Financial systems accountant jobs in ashford, surrey

Now in its 17th year, Why me? is seeking a brilliant, highly organised and proactive administrator to join our small team, co-ordinate our finance, HR and office systems, support our projects and communications, and ensure good governance. The role will also include support around income generation, and delivering events. This is a brilliant opportunity for someone wanting to gain a range of skills in the charity/campaign sector.

Working closely with the CEO, areas of work will include:

• Providing general office administrative support

• Supporting IT, HR and financial processes of the charity.

• Ensuring good governance of the charity

• Helping with project delivery, including event and training administration

• Social media scheduling

• Supporting volunteers

The Role

Reporting to the Board of Trustees, the CEO/Director will be responsible for the overall strategic, financial, and operational leadership of Chelsea Theatre. This is a hands-on role with a focus on balancing the day-to-day running of the operational activities of the venue, with essential components such as stakeholder management, community engagement and income generation. 

Key Responsibilities

The postholder will: 

• Provide leadership and responsibility for the charity’s purpose, administration and financial management plus ensure compliance with the law and regulations. 

• Generate significant earned income from one-off and repeat hirers, including local community organisations, commercial contracts, arts organisations and private hires, with a focus on high quality customer care.

• Increase income from grants, corporates and funds from individuals, with support from Trustees.

• Run the building as a community centre, making an ever-increasing positive impact in the local community and beyond. 

• Motivate and engage a small team of staff and volunteers, and broad range of stakeholders and prospective supporters.

• Where necessary, with the team, be capable of delivering a range of operational tasks, such as updating the website and managing the box office systems.

• Act as ambassador for the charity, building relationships with partners and stakeholders in the community, local government and with businesses. 

Strategic & Commercial Leadership

• Work with the Board to develop and implement a clear vision and business strategy to ensure the long-term sustainability and growth of the Chelsea Theatre.

• Identify and maximise commercial opportunities, including venue hire, sponsorship, and partnerships. Support the Board with fundraising.

• Lead on business development and marketing initiatives to increase revenue while maintaining the venue’s community-focused ethos.

• Ensure the organisation’s mixed team of staff and volunteers are focused on supporting the business’s mission and objectives.

Venue & Operational Management

• Oversee all aspects of venue operations, ensuring the highest standards of efficiency, customer experience, and compliance with health and safety regulations.

• Develop and manage budgets effectively, ensuring quality financial reporting, financial stability, and responsible stewardship of resources.

• Ability to optimise rental income and diversify income streams, while serving community needs. 

• Build and maintain relationships with key stakeholders, including funders, local authorities, businesses, and community groups.

• Operate within the annual budget. Monitor key indicators of the organisation’s impact and financial health. 

Community & Stakeholder Engagement

• Develop and nurture partnerships with the local community, ensuring the theatre remains a welcoming and accessible space for all.

• Work closely with the Board of Trustees to align organisational commercial goals with community needs and expectations.

• Further develop a balanced and funded community programme, which currently include a flagship youth theatre scheme, to reflect community needs and interests. 

• Represent Chelsea Theatre externally, acting as an advocate for its work and impact.

Job Title: Senior Management Accountant

Contract: Fixed Term Contract (Maternity Cover)

Hours: 35 hours per week

Salary: £50,000 - £60,000 per annum

Location: Coram Campus, Bloomsbury, London, WC1N 1AZ

About Coram

Coram is committed to improving the lives of the UK’s most vulnerable children and young people. We support children and young people from birth to independence, creating a change that lasts a lifetime.

Coram is the UK’s oldest children’s charity founded by Thomas Coram in London helping vulnerable children and young people since 1739. Today, the Coram group helps more than one million children, young people, families and professionals every year by providing access to the skills and opportunities they need to thrive.

Coram’s established finance team works to protect the assets of Coram group of charities through the maintenance and development of a systematic process for financial control and review.Under the leadership of the Chief Finance Officer, the team manages the £25 m annual turnover for the group’s 12 established legal entities, providing financial and management information to the Committees, Boards and Senior Management Team to support effective decision-making on the strategic direction of the charity.

About the role

We require a senior management accountant to manage monthly management accounts reporting, budgets/forecasts, cashflow forecasting and annual statutory accounting for entities in the Coram Group.

The successful candidate will be a qualified accountant with experience of managing a team ensuring all financial and management accounting procedures, payroll processes, budget reporting and the systems for effective cash flow projections and management are in place.

You will have proven experience in a similar role in the charity/not for profit sector, particularly in the areas of planning and reporting, staff development and management of change. Knowledge of the SORP charitable finance regulations along with excellent IT skills are essential. Experience of using GP Dynamics or similar accounting software will be an advantage.

To apply for this role, please click on the 'apply now' button below to complete the application.

Closing Date: Sunday 11th May 2025 at 23:59

Interview date (First Interview): TBC

Coram is an equal opportunities employer and we believe a diverse workforce enables us to improve the services to the children and families we help. We are genuinely committed to encouraging candidates from all sections of the community we seek to support. This includes those from, Asian, African, Caribbean and other minority ethnic backgrounds, those that identify as LGBQT+, those with disabilities, those with lived experience of care, those with neuro-diversity, and those from other groups who are underrepresented at Coram.

If applicants feel comfortable, we would encourage them to draw on lived experience as well as professional experience in their personal statement as part of their application.

We are committed to the safeguarding of children and where appropriate will require the successful applicant to undertake a check from the Disclosure and Barring Service.

Registered Charity No. 312278.

Financial Controller (Ark and Ventures)

Reports to: Finance Director for Ark and Ventures

Location: Currently operating hybrid working in our West London Office

Contract: Permanent

Pattern: Full Time (standard hours 9am – 5.30pm)

Closing date: 05/05/2025

1st stage interviews: w/c 05/05/2025 (virtual)

2nd stage interviews: w/c 12/05/2025 (in person)

Salary: £60,000 to £75,000 (depending on experience)

About the role:

This is a vital and high-profile role for us and requires a person with strong technical skills and the power of independent thought; meticulous organisational skills and attention to detail; and drive to constantly develop new and improved ways of working. The successful candidate will be a qualified and committed accountant, ready to lead financial control for Ark’s central Finance team.

The Financial Controller will be mainly responsible for ensuring the highest standards of financial control are met across Ark, its subsidiaries and the various external ventures Ark supports. Within this, the role will be responsible for the processing and reporting of financial accounting data for Ark and its related entities, day-to-day cash flow management and compliant statutory returns (including VAT).

The Financial Controller for Ark and Ventures will report into Finance Director for Ark and Ventures. This role is currently operating hybrid working in our West London Office on a permanent basis working full time.

First-round interviews will take place virtually w/c Monday 5th May and second-round interviews will take place in person w/c Monday 12th May.

Key Responsibilities:

• Staff management including training and regular appraisals. The team currently consists of two Finance Officers. Also supporting two business partners.
• Provide up-to-date financial information and technical advice to Ark management and the Venture teams, including cash management.
• Lead the year-end process, including creation of annual accounts for Ark and its related entities (excluding Ark Schools) and overseeing the audits.
• First review of monthly management accounts.
• Take responsibility for the year-end audit and preparation/supervision of draft statutory accounts for the Group and 5 subsidiary entities in accordance with Charities SORP, Companies Act and UK GAAP. Liaise with auditors and ensure timetable and deadlines are met
• Management and oversight of the month-end process to ensure timely period close, including approval of all manual journals posted to the accounting system.
• Review and approval of balance sheets control account reconciliations, including bank reconciliation, petty cash, purchase ledger, staff loans, credit card, and Payroll accounts.
• Responsible for the day-to-day management of the Group’s cash flow and Treasury and preparation of performance reports for the Ark Management Team and Finance and Risk Committee.
• Set-up and maintenance of PS Financials (accounting system) and Concur (invoice and expense system), including maintaining workflows in accordance with the Scheme of Delegation.
• Relationship owner for Lloyds (banker), including set-up of Commercial Banking Online and credit cards in accordance with the Scheme of Delegation. Responsible for maintaining all bank accounts and mandates.
• Responsibility for writing and maintaining finance policies and processes, including the financial Scheme of Delegation, and ensuring these are freely available to all relevant staff.
• Accounts Payable Lead ensuring all suppliers are paid on time. Responsible for processing weekly BACs runs and authorisations in line with the Scheme of Delegation.
• Manage insurance provision for the Ark Group.

Key Requirements:

• Right to work in the UK.
• Professional Accounting Qualification (at least 3-years post-qualification).
• Educated to degree level or equivalent.
• A record of Continuing Professional Development activities.
• Audit experience.
• Hands on experience of producing statutory accounts.
• Experience of VAT, including international and/or construction industry scheme reverse charge, ideally in a charity context.
• Advanced level IT skills and ability to make effective use of standard software packages, e.g., Microsoft Words, Excel, PowerPoint and Outlook.
• Staff management.
• Knowledge of the latest Charities SORP and Companies Act.
• Understanding and/or experience of working across a Group structure with a variety of business activities.
• Exceptional written and oral communication skills, influencing and relationship building skills at multiple levels.
• Self-motivated with excellent time-management skills and the ability to plan, manage and prioritise a varied workload, and to take responsibility for issues through to resolution.
• High attention to detail, proactive, confident, independent thinker and an enthusiastic ‘can do’ attitude.
• Ability to effectively present financial information at the appropriate level.
• Ability to challenge and influence assertively and cooperatively.

Benefits:

• Our hybrid working model aims to offer the best of both worlds, striking the right balance between in-person collaboration and remote working. You will work a minimum of two days per week in our state-of-the-art office in West London allowing you to connect with colleagues, with the flexibility to work remotely, or in the office over the remaining days
• In addition to our current hybrid working arrangements, employees can request to work fully remotely for up to 10 working days a year, whether this be in the UK or abroad
• Our flexitime policy allows you to work your hours around our core hours of 10.00 - 16.00, helping you prioritise your work-life balance and personal commitments
• 27 days annual leave plus bank holidays, rising with each year of service up to 30 days after 3-years’ service. This entitlement is pro rata for part time employees. This entitlement excludes bank holidays
• Full office closure between Christmas and New Year
• As an Ark employee, you will have the opportunity to be part of the TPT (The Pension Trust) scheme, our workplace pension scheme where we make an 11% contribution; you are not required to contribute towards this scheme unless you choose to
• Access to high-quality professional learning throughout your career, offering both face-to-face sessions and a bespoke online learning platform
• Access to Ark Rewards scheme offering savings from over 3,000 major retailers, interest-free loans available for season tickets or a bike, gym discounts offering up to 40% off your local gym and free eye tests.

About Us:

Ark is an education charity that exists to make sure that all children, regardless of their background, have access to a great education and real choices in life. Our network of 39 schools reaches traditionally underserved communities in Birmingham, Hastings, London and Portsmouth. We educate 30,000 pupils and have nearly 3,000 teaching staff across our network. We also incubate and scale innovative ventures, which we roll out beyond our network of schools for the benefit of teachers, pupils and the education system as a whole. Current Ventures include Ark Curriculum Plus, which equips teachers with the subject expertise needed to ensure students succeed, and Ark Start, a growing chain of nurseries offering affordable, high-quality early years education.

Recently, Ark moved to new offices at EdCity – a unique not-for-profit development in West London, in partnership with Hammersmith & Fulham council. EdCity is designed to bring mission-aligned organisations together to focus on improving the lives of children, especially through education. It offers leased offices, a range of venues for training and events, and an innovation hub for the education sector to connect, collaborate and learn together.

Diversity and Inclusion:

We aim to build a diverse and inclusive organisation where everyone – staff and students – can do their best work and achieve their full potential. We want to reflect and represent diverse perspectives across our organisation because we know that doing so will make us stronger and more effective. To know more about Ark’s diversity and inclusion commitments, please click on this link.

Safeguarding statement:

Ark is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people in its academies. In order to meet this responsibility, its academies follow a rigorous selection process to discourage and screen out unsuitable applicants.

Ark requires all employees to undertake an enhanced DBS check. You are required, before appointment, to disclose any unspent conviction, cautions, reprimands or warnings under the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 (Exceptions) Order 1975. Non-disclosure may lead to termination of employment. However, disclosure of a criminal background will not necessarily debar you from employment - this will depend upon the nature of the offence(s) and when they occurred. To read more about Ark’s safer recruitment process, please click this link.

Please note we will be reviewing applications on an on-going basis and this role may close earlier than advertised depending on the level of response. We strongly encourage to submit your application at your earliest convenience.

Venn Group is delighted to be working with an executive non-departmental public body to recruit a Director of Financial Planning and Analysis. This leadership role will oversee strategic financial planning, drive performance through data-driven insights, and build a high-performing global FP&A function. It offers the opportunity to influence executive decision-making, manage a growing team, and lead transformation during a period of significant organisational change.

Key responsibilities of the role:

• Provide strategic leadership for global financial planning and reporting, aligned with long-term organisational goals
• Lead development of multi-year financial plans, annual budgets, and forecasts, incorporating scenario planning and risk analysis
• Oversee implementation of a new FP&A system, enhancing forecasting through automation and driver-based modelling
• Build a high-performing FP&A function, introducing a new operating model and best-practice methodologies
• Deliver forward-looking financial insights to inform executive decision-making and identify key risks and opportunities
• Promote data-led planning using advanced analytics, real-time reporting, and business intelligence tools
• Manage and grow a multidisciplinary finance team, fostering performance, collaboration, and capability development
• Engage senior stakeholders to ensure robust financial governance, compliance, and strategic alignment

Ideal candidate profile:

• Professionally Qualified Accountant (ACA, ACCA, CIMA, or CIPFA)
• Proven experience in international, multicultural environments
• Demonstrated expertise in commercial finance and strategic financial management
• Track record of successfully leading organisational change and transformation initiatives
• Strong leadership capabilities with experience managing high-performing teams

 

Agency reference number: J88336

Location: Central London

Contract: Permanent

Salary: £95,000 - £100,000 per annum

Working hours: Full time

Working pattern: Hybrid (2-3 days per week in the office)

This vacancy will be actively shortlisted so early applications are encouraged to avoid missing out.

Venn Group is an equal opportunities employment business and employment agency and welcomes applications from all candidates.

An exciting opportunity has arisen for a Management Accountant to work for an International Membership Body. This is a fantastic role for someone with an accounting background, looking to build their career in the non-profit sector.

Key Responsibilities of the Role:

• Prepare monthly management accounts
• Oversee the preparation of financial reports for the board
• Conduct the financial modelling using Microsoft Excel
• Support with grant-funding applications
• Assist with month-end close procedures
• Assist with monthly reconciliations of control and balance sheets
• Maintain documentation to support financial processes and audits.
• Participate in ad-hoc financial projects

Ideal Candidate Profile:

• Proven experience in a Charity Finance role (experience in Charity SORP reporting)
• Strong experience in management accounting reporting for month-end
• Strong system skills particularly Microsoft Excel proficiency
• Experience in grant-funding application is desirable
• Strong verbal and written communication skills

Job Title: Management Accountant

Agency Reference Number: J88166

Location: Hybrid, 2 days a week in the office in Holborn

Duration: 6 months with potential to move permanent

Salary: £200-250 per day

Working Hours: Full-time (35 hours)

This vacancy will be actively shortlisted, so early applications are encouraged to avoid missing out.

Venn Group is an equal opportunities employment business and employment agency and welcomes applications from all candidates.

We are committed to improving diversity and inclusion across our organisation. Don’t meet every single requirement? Studies have shown that women and the Global Majority are less likely to apply for jobs unless they meet every single specification. If you’re excited about the role but your experience or qualifications don’t perfectly align, we encourage you to apply anyway. We particularly encourage applications from underrepresented groups such as the global majority, LGBTQA+, those with a disability and neurodiverse conditions.

 

The role:

This is a key role within the Executive Leadership team, with accountability for Finance, Procurement and IT at the Globe. You will work collaboratively with the CEO and Executive leadership team to drive strong business as usual delivery, and provide provide balanced insight to Executive Leadership Team and the Senior Leadership Group so that they can take responsibility for questioning routines and rituals, and for streamlining processes that improve efficiency.

The Finance Director is the lead on the Audit and Risk Committee (ARC) and is a key part of other relevant committees. You will also attend and report at Board meetings, developing strong working relationships with Board members, the Artistic Director, Executive Leadership members, members of the Senior Leadership Group (SLG), the Finance and Procurement team, the Globe’s IT contractor, and colleagues throughout the Globe.

The skills:

· Chartered Accountant.

· Extensive Director level business experience in a complex organisation.

· A strategic thinker with entrepreneurial instincts

· Demonstrable experience in managing contracts.

· Experience within the charities sector including understanding of the relevant accounting, taxation and other regulatory requirements this presents.

· Empathy with the work, aims and mission of the Globe including an appreciation of the balance between the charitable purpose and commercial imperatives.

· An effective and flexible leadership and management style with demonstrable ability to inspire, motivate, coach and develop a team.

· Credibility and authority to work effectively and liaise internally with senior staff and externally with Trustees and other stakeholders.

· An excellent negotiator and influencer with string emotional intelligence and good communication skills.

· Analytical problem-solving ability with the appetite and energy to evaluate, challenge and change the status quo.

· Experience in financial and risk compliance and governance issues.

· Accessible and inclusive report writing and presentation skills demonstrated as a part of Board level reporting.

· Positive, determined, pragmatic, and resilient – able to inspire confidence and respect.

· The ability to work flexibly in a creative, fast-moving environment and understand the importance of artistic risk taking and to respond positively to it.

· Experience in, or a personal interest in the arts, heritage/museum, or creative industries.

· Experience of managing IT contracts or IT staff.

 

The team:

The Finance Department provides timely and accurate financial information to key stakeholders while protecting Shakespeare’s Globe assets and ensures compliance with laws and regulations in relation to financial and taxation matters. Serving as a key partner on topics requiring economic, financial and value for money inputs and expertise, the Finance Department manages Accounting and Financial Reporting, Tax, Banking Relationships, Procurement, Financial Risk Management, Contracts, Management Reporting, and external audit partners

Shakespeare’s Globe:

We celebrate Shakespeare’s transformative impact on the world by conducting a radical theatrical experiment. Inspired and informed by the unique historic playing conditions of two beautiful iconic theatres, our diverse programme of work harnesses the power of performance, cultivates intellectual curiosity and excites learning to make Shakespeare accessible for all.

As Senior Finance Officer, you will play a vital role at World Heart Beat, ensuring the effective day-to-day management of finances, financial administration, and bookkeeping, as well as informing future business planning. You will work with key personnel across the team, providing guidance and leadership in relation to budget management and financial information to support funding applications and stewardship. You will also provide excellent reporting to support the Executive and Board.

It is an exciting time for the charity, following the opening of World Heart Beat Embassy Gardens in 2023, our second site for music teaching, which includes a café, concert hall and recording studio. The operation of two sites has increased our activities and overheads, making the Senior Finance Officer role even more crucial. We have also established a CIC through which new earned income streams are channelled. The Senior Finance Officer will have the opportunity to develop and shape financial processes and contribute to forward planning.

Driven and engaging Finance Director required for a commercially focused Not for Profit who uphold industry standards for their sector and members on a 12 month FTC basis.

• Up to £120k
• 12 month FTC to start immediately
• London/hybrid (2-3 days)

You will be a strategic thinker, with strong financial acumen and leadership skills who will oversee the financial operations of the company and its trading subsidiaries. This will including financial planning, financial budgeting and forecasting, cost management and financial analysis as well as playing a key role in developing and implementing financial strategies to drive growth and profitability across the group including identifying and analysing new business opportunities as the organisation looks to scale up.

The FD will also lead the roll out the new finance system so experience of a system implementation is essential.

Ideally successful candidates will have relevant experience of being in a No1 finance role from a membership background and/or private sector, SME's being particularly beneficial. You will also need to be a formally qualified accountant.

The Football Foundation are partnering exclusively with Robertson Bell in their search for a permanent Financial Planning & Analysis Manager. The Football Foundation are the Premier League, The FA and the Governments charity that helps communities improve their local football and sport facilities through grants.

This newly created Financial Planning & Analysis Manager will be responsible for providing key insights to support strategic decision-making, ensuring financial performance aligns with business objectives, and embedding a culture of finance business partnering across the Football Foundation (the charity) and the Premier League Stadium Fund (PLSF). Additionally, the role will oversee strategic financial planning, forecasting, and analysis activities across the organisation.

The role:

• Lead and consolidate business partnering in the organisation, ensuring close collaboration with management group, department heads, and other key stakeholders to gather insights and ensure alignment on KPI’s and objectives.
• Lead the preparation and execution of the Foundation’s long-term strategic financial plans and annual budgeting processes in an effective and timely manner.
• Responsible for monitoring and providing the relevant financial information form the various funding agreements with partners.
• Accountable for overseeing the production of the monthly ’performance packs’ and associated information – highlighting key trends, issues, and opportunities as appropriate.
• Foster collaboration across departments to streamline data gathering, analysis, and planning processes.
• Continually look for ways to simplify and standardise the management accounting and budgeting processes, automating as much as possible and avoiding the need to produce “off system” analyses.
• Provide supportive line management and guidance to the Business Partner, ensuring their ongoing development, performance, and alignment with departmental goals. This includes holding regular one-to-one meetings, offering clear guidance, open and constructive feedback, and upholding the Foundation’s Personal Development Review process. 

The organisation:

Since 2000, The Football Foundation has been privileged to make a truly transformative difference to grassroots sport across the country. As a result of funding partners investment, every day they see the incredible impact of the game on physical fitness, mental wellbeing, bringing communities together and the local economy. With the investment from their funding partners the Premier League, The FA and the Government, they are making a big impact. They're helping to transform communities and the lives of individuals through delivering outstanding grassroots sport facilities.

Essential criteria:

• Professional accountancy qualification (e.g. ACA, ACCA, CIMA) or at finalist stage.
  • Expertise in financial modelling, forecasting and analysis with confidence in managing large datasets and deriving actionable insights.
  • Strong presentation skills, with the ability to translate complex financial data into clear, accessible formats tailored to varied audiences.
  • Experienced in developing financial policies, guiding users with clear and practical processes to enhance financial governance.
  • Proven capability in finance business partnering, with knowledge of embedding its principles across an organisation to align financial insights with strategic goals.
  • Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to identify issues and resolve technical issues independently, ensuring efficient outcomes.
  • Strong proficiency in extracting and analysing complex financial data, uncovering trends and correlations to support informed decision-making.
  • Strong organisational abilities, adept at managing competing priorities within a broad remit, and responding flexibly to changing requirements to ensure seamless operations.

The position will be based at The Football Foundation’s head office at Wembley Stadium and requires 2 visits per week to the office, dependent on business need, in addition to attending two-day all team meet ups each quarter. The closing date for applications is 5^th May with first stage interviews taking place on the 15^th May.

Applications will be under constant review before the closing date, so please submit your application to our exclusive search agent, Robertson Bell. Apply now to be considered!

The Head of Finance will primarily have responsibility for planning, implementing, managing and controlling all financial-related activities. You will have direct responsibility for the finance function. 

The role will also be responsible for partner relationships with external accountants and auditors.

The successful candidate will be joining Eikon at an exciting time as the organisation builds innovative ways to deliver services to young people, including strengthening the evidence to influence increased strategic investment in preventative and early support for children, young people and the adults around them. You’ll be a crucial part of the leadership team, contributing to the vision and strategy of the whole organisation, and ensuring the organisation is in control of its current and future financial position and strategy to achieve Eikon’s vision.

To succeed in this role, you will need to manage competing priorities and build effective relationships with senior level colleagues and teams, the Finance Trustee and the Board of Trustees.

You will ensure systems, internal controls and financial management are in place to meet Eikon’s financial, contractual, statutory and legal responsibilities.

 

Responsibilities

Day to day financial management of the organisation, including:

· Ensuring the delivery of monthly management accounts

· Building and maintaining the systems for setting and managing annual financial organisational plans, budgets and quarterly forecasts

· Proactively manage the income and expenditure of the charity advising the management team on income shortfalls and overspends on expenditure relating to unrestricted and restricted funding

· Oversee and manage the charity’s finance operations including expenses, invoicing, payments and cash management

· Developing greater financial literacy across the organisation by building and maintaining accessible and clear systems and processes, and providing advice to budget holders

· Reporting to the Eikon Leadership and Management Teams, Audit and Finance Committee and the Board of Trustees

· Support and review of funding applications, commercial arrangements and contractual performance

 

Leadership Across The Charity

· Contribute to Eikon’s overall vision and strategy through membership of the Senior Leadership Team

· Contribute to monitoring the performance of the charity against its key objectives and to any corrective action that is needed

· Working with the CEO, Senior Leadership Team, the Finance Trustee, develop and implement the financial strategies that enable the successful delivery of the organisational vision and strategy

· Provide insightful financial analysis to inform key decision-making on growth opportunities, ensuring a balance between risk management and sustainable organisational expansion

· Develop appropriate process and systems improvements across the organisation that enable performance enhancements of the finance function

 

Maintain effective internal accounts and leading on statutory reporting and annual audit, including:

· Ensuring financial procedures and delegated authorities are fit for purpose, adhered to and up to date

· Ensure compliance with applicable legislation and regulatory guidance for financial and tax reporting

· Ensure compliance of all statutory requirements and accounting in accordance with the Statement of Recommended Practice (SORP) and the Companies Act

· Lead on the preparation of the Annual Statutory Financial Statements, liaise with auditors and ensure accounts are filed on time with the Charity Commission and Companies House

 

Finance Manager

ABOUT US – THE GESTALT CENTRE

We are the Gestalt Centre, an established therapy not-for-profit organisation, supporting the mental and psychological well-being of individuals, groups, and organisations. We are a dynamic charity that runs, accommodates, and supports a number of counselling, psychotherapy, personal and professional development courses, and a range of therapeutic practices that enhance mental and psychological wellbeing.

As Gestalt Centre, our relationship with people who work for the centre starts from a place of trust. We see our structure as an organisational shape that we use to organise ourselves. What matters for us is how we all work together. We prioritise collaboration and ‘horizontal’ consultative decision making with individual and collective responsibility and accountability.

OUR VISION is a world were meaningful and fulfilling relationships lead to wellbeing and positive change in people’s lives.

OUR PURPOSE is to promote the mental and psychological well-being of individuals, groups and organisations through Gestalt education, training, and practice.

Gestalt is a life-changing approach to life, counselling, and psychotherapy. It enables people to develop meaningful relationships, navigate change and lead fulfilling lives by creatively utilising their own resources, skills, and strengths.

OUR VALUES

• Awareness and personal responsibility.
• Diversity, equality, inclusion and anti-discrimination.
• Kindness and respect for each other and the space we cohabit.
• Collaboration and community: every person matters and so does the collective.

Ready to make a difference? Join us!

We are seeking to appoint a highly motivated and experienced Finance Manager with strong background in charity finance to join our Executive team. A key role working closely with the CEO, the Executive team and Trustees.

✔ join a highly committed, experienced and collaborative team in a dynamic organisation, with strong collaborative and human-centric practice, growing and changing in innovative ways

✔ deliver a diverse role with opportunities to grow as a professional

✔ join the Gestalt Centre, a beacon of excellence in the therapy world

✔ support people develop emotional and psychological wellbeing and create a world where meaningful relationships lead to wellbeing and positive change in people’s lives

✔ flexible working and hybrid with home working and convenient office location when you’re in the office.

ABOUT THE ROLE

FINANCE MANAGER JOB DESCRIPTION

Role Purpose

The Finance Manager will proactively plan, manage and oversee the financial strategy, operations, and compliance of our dynamic and growing organisation. The role contributes directly to the organisation’s strategic planning and has hands-on oversight of financial transactions, operations, compliance and reporting.  

As the Finance Manager, you will be a member of the Executive leadership team working closely with the CEO on matters of financial strategy and business development - contributing to strategic decisions and providing financial guidance.You’d also be supported by the Finance Manager Assistant and the Bookkeeper.

Main Objectives

• Provide leadership, in-depth knowledge and financial expertise to support the organisation’s strategy, business development and operations. 
• Manage the day-to-day financial operations including payroll, payments, controls and cash flow to ensure sound financial management and accuracy around all financial routines and procedures. Also ensure compliance and accurate reporting.
• Lead on and manage financial planning, budgeting, and forecasting - working closely with the CEO.
• Lead on enhancing procedural efficiencies and streamlining in finance operations.
• Prepare statutory and management accounts. Manage the annual financial audit and implement recommendations.
• Provide and manage sound financial reporting and conduct financial analysis and financial modelling for business development.
• Work with and manage the Finance Manager Assistant and Bookkeeper.

MAIN RESPONSIBILITIES AND ACCOUNTABILITIES

The role works closely with the CEO and is assisted by the Assistant Finance Manager and the Bookkeeper.

Financial Planning

• Lead on financial planning, budgeting and forecasting.
• Conduct financial analysis to support decision-making, highlighting key trends, opportunities and risks. Also scenario planning and financial modelling for growth and sustainability.
• Provide sound financial advice to the CEO, Executive and Trustees also assisting with business planning and strategy and business development.

Financial Management

• Lead on and manage the annual financial audit, including preparation, responding to auditors queries and implementation of recommendations, effectively and in a timely manner. Also filling with the Charity Commission and Companies House.
• Lead on the day-to-day management of financial operations to ensure sound financial management and accuracy of all financial routines and procedures.
• Monitor performance of actuals in relation to budget, income generation targets, approved expenditure and in relation to forecast. Note, analyse and comment on variations and propose adjustments.  
• Prepare quarterly management accounts and reports for decision-making and planning.
•  Advise on and manage investments and cashflow.

Governance: Policies, procedures and financial controls

• Ensure compliance with all requirements and standards in respect to Insurance, Companies House, Charities Commission and HMRC.
• Proactively lead on process improvements as we grow. Includes writing, reviewing and updating finance procedures and policies, in collaboration with the CEO and Executive colleagues.
• Ensure governance documents are up to date. Including Trustees appointment and resignation records, conflict-of-interest forms, and relevant submissions to Companies House.
• Monitoring and mitigating financial risks while maintaining robust internal controls. Also manage credit control and ensure that payments are received on time.
• Ensure financial procedures, policies and reporting systems are updated as required and maintained thereafter.

Accounting

• Supervise and review accounting tasks and records processed by the bookkeeper and the Finance Manager.
• Ensure timely, up to date and accurate accounting practice including journal entries, accruals, phasing and reconciliation.
• Ensure accuracy of income and expenses allocation and coding, including deferred income and monthly reconciliations.
• Review and update coding structures and nominal coding, clearing accounts and reconciliations in collaboration with the CEO and finance colleagues.

Payments and Payroll

• Manage effectively payroll, tax and pension submissions, banking and associated procedures.   
• Ensure all payments are made, received and acknowledged in an accurate, compliant and timely manner.
• Maintain up to date records of financial calculations regarding payments and fees for tutors, assessors and other stakeholders.

Contracts Management

• Ensure that operational, building, insurance and supplier contracts are up to date and renew them as required. Includes utility bills, IT and telephone.
• Prepare and issue employee contracts (working with the CEO/HR).

Support service delivery

• Calculate and prepare courses fees and other financial information for reviews and to support decision-making
• Liaise with students to offer and manage payment plans
• Ensure financial queries by colleagues, collaborators, students and practitioners are dealt with effectively and in a timely manner.
• Support the integration of financial and operational systems.

People Management

• Supervise, manage and support the Finance Manager and Bookkeeper, ensuring and supporting high performance and wellbeing.
• Recruitment, induction and professional development of the finance team. Also ensuring team members understand and adhere to organisational policies and procedures.

ABOUT YOU

PERSON SPECIFICATION

Qualifications and experience  

• Qualified or part-qualified (final stage), for example ACA, ACMA, CIPFA, CIMA.
• Minimum 3 years relevant financial management experience working with a charity/not for profit.
• Good experience of sound accounting and financial management in the charity/not for profit sector. Good knowledge of charity accounting and the Charity SORP.
• Sound knowledge and experience of leading and managing the audit process.
• Thorough practical up-to-date understanding of management accounting principles and techniques.
• In-depth knowledge and experience with payroll and pension processes and management systems for accounting functions, including QuickBooks.
• Sound knowledge and experience providing monthly management accounts, year-end statutory accounts and financial reporting.
• Extensive experience of contributing to the strategic, organisational and financial planning processes and leading on budgeting and forecasting.
• Extensive experience in balancing competing complexities of a busy role and prioritising effectively, forward planning and working to tight deadlines.
• Sound experience working effectively with confidentiality and GDPR in mind and in line with organisational policies and practice.
• Good experience with organisational realities, challenges and opportunities in the charity sector.
• Experience of working well within a multidisciplinary team (desirable).
• Experience facilitating or leading change and growth (desirable).

Qualities

• Awareness of self and others alongside a learning and growth mindset
• Leadership and management with kindness, integrity and collaboration
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills including ability to communicate financial concepts and information in accurate, simple and clear ways and work collaboratively across teams and at a senior level
• Proactive dynamic leadership and project management skills and ability to apply big picture thinking. 
• Excellent numeracy skills with attention to detail, sound analytical and problem-solving skills. 
• Ability to be flexible and adaptable in a dynamic organisation.
• Ability to receive and provide feedback, learn and grow as a professional
• Creativity, resourcefulness and an open mind to be able to see opportunities, embrace challenges and facilitate resolution of any issues.
• Ability to work under pressure and to tight deadlines.
• Passion and commitment to the Gestalt Centre values, work and direction
• Commitment to equality, diversity, inclusion and anti-discrimination.
• Excellent IT skills, including advanced Microsoft Excel skills and accounting software systems
• Competency using MS Office, email, online platforms and learning management systems

Salary: £37-£42,000 per annum
Reporting to: Head of Finance
Contract: 35 hours per week (1.0 FTE). Part time also considered (minimum 21 hours per week (0.6FTE)
Location: UK / Flexible
 
Who we are
 
Unlimit Health is an international organisation working to end parasitic disease. We work closely with affected countries, sharing evidence and expertise to eliminate preventable infections. Our purpose is to support people to live healthy lives, free from limiting disease. 
 
Our vision is for resilient systems that sustain good health, so everyone everywhere can reach their full potential. We achieve this by working across multiple sectors in numerous countries to deliver effective and robust health programmes that have a lasting impact. 
 
We were founded in 2002 with a £20m grant from the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, and started life as a research group, the Schistosomiasis Control Initiative, within Imperial College London. Consistently ranked globally as one of the most cost-effective non-profit initiatives, we have received significant funding since our inception including from the UK Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO), USAID and philanthropic investors. 
 
What we do
 
Our work includes: 

• Evidence-based disease elimination support 
• Cross-sectoral health systems strengthening 
• Building collaborative partnerships 

Our main area of focus is the elimination of schistosomiasis and soil-transmitted helminthiases (intestinal worms). Endemic infections of these parasitic worms are found in some of the world’s most marginalised communities, and they can have a hugely detrimental effect on individuals, including:  

• Reduced productivity 
• Internal organ damage 
• Impaired child development 
• Reduced school attendance 
• Increased risk of HIV in women 
• Infertility

The role
 
This is an exciting role, to liaise and support partner organisations to ensure accounting records are complete, accurate, and up to date, coded correctly on UH’s cashbooks and reconciled against bank statements. You will also provide technical support to partners’ finance staff and train them on the use of the cashbooks and financial reporting to UH.
 
You will be educated to degree level and have experience in a fast-paced and complex finance role. You should have experience of working with technical accounting packages as well as experience in financial planning and monitoring.
 
The role is fast-paced and complex, and the ideal candidate will need to have proven inter-personal skills, excellent verbal and written communication skills with the ability to assess priorities, organise workloads and initiate action and problem solve.
 
To apply
 
To apply, please submit an up-to-date CV and covering letter outlining your suitability for the role according to the job description and person specification.
 
Closing date: 6th May at 9am
Interview dates: W/C 19th May
 
Please ensure you are available to attend an interview on these dates.
 
Applicants are required to have the right to work in the UK, and documentary evidence will be requested at the interview stage.
 
Diversity Statement
 
We particularly welcome applications from candidates from under-represented groups to better reflect our mission and work to improve health equity. Research has shown that women and people from marginalised groups are less likely to apply for a role if they do not meet 100% of the job criteria. Please consider applying even if you do not fully meet our essential criteria. We are happy to schedule an informal chat to discuss the role further prior to submitting an application.
 
Unlimit Health is an equal opportunity employer. We welcome and celebrate differences in age, race, ethnicity, national origin, gender identity and expression, sexual orientation, physical or mental ability, religious beliefs, and socio-economic background. We are dedicated to fostering an inclusive environment where every team member is valued, respected, and has equal opportunities to thrive.
 
Unlimit Health is an international organisation working to end parasitic disease.
 
We work closely with affected countries, sharing evidence and expertise to eliminate preventable infections. Our purpose is to support people to live healthy lives, free from limiting disease.
 
REF-221065

The Finance Assistant will play a key role in supporting KCLSU's finance operations, maintaining strong financial controls, and ensuring accurate financial reporting across the organisation.

Main Tasks

• Process and reconcile purchase invoices, sales invoices, and supplier payments, maintaining accurate ledgers.
• Reconcile daily income from multiple systems to banking records and update the finance system accordingly.
•  Support month-end processes, including bank reconciliations, journal postings, and assisting with management accounts.
• Assist with reconciling Balance Sheet accounts, investigating and resolving discrepancies.
• Generate financial reports and data extracts from the finance system to support financial reporting.
•  Support the maintenance of internal financial controls and ensure compliance with relevant financial procedures and regulations.
• Respond professionally to financial queries from staff, students, and suppliers, providing accurate and timely information.
• Other finance-related ad hoc tasks

General Responsibilities
• Support the efficient operation of the Finance Department, ensuring organisation and professionalism. Provide cover for colleagues where necessary, contributing to a cohesive team environment.
• Develop a strong understanding of Finance Business Partnering, providing financial advice and insights to internal budget holders, aiding informed decision-making and improved financial performance.
• Lead or contribute to projects supporting the implementation of KCLSU’s Finance Strategy, driving process improvements and strategic initiatives.
• Maintain compliance with KCLSU’s financial regulations, ensuring the integrity and accuracy of financial operations.
• Deliver excellent customer service to both internal and external stakeholders, addressing finance-related queries and providing accurate, timely information.
• Contribute to the development and continuous improvement of financial systems, ensuring sound financial controls and best practices are in place.
• Represent KCLSU professionally, supporting its objectives and upholding its positive reputation.
• Adapt flexibly to evolving responsibilities, assisting with tasks that support the wider needs of the organisation.
• Collaborate across departments, adopting a team-oriented approach to support the overall functioning of KCLSU.

Other Responsibilities
• Assist in the delivery of finance systems and procedures training for over 400 student groups, ensuring they have the necessary tools and knowledge to manage their finances effectively.

Working Hours
• The role requires 35 hours per week. On occasion, working hours may exceed this, including evening or weekend work to meet deadlines. These additional hours are included in the role's grading and contract.

Additional Information
• This job description is accurate as of 28th April 2025 and outlines the core responsibilities of the role. It is intended to assist both the post holder and KCLSU in understanding the position’s primary duties.
• The description is not exhaustive, and duties may evolve over time. The post holder may be required to work at various King’s College London sites.
• KCLSU operates a hybrid working policy, requiring employees to work in the office at least once a week and five days per month.
• KCLSU reserves the right to vary the duties and responsibilities after consultation with the post holder.
• Please note that the starting salary for this role is £31,041 with annual increases.

Candidate Specification

Qualifications
• A finance-related qualification (such as part-qualified Chartered Accountant or equivalent) is highly desirable, with at least two years of relevant finance experience, ideally within a student union or higher education environment, though other sectors will be considered.
• Alternatively, candidates with strong hands-on financial experience in a similar setting, or who are working towards a finance qualification, are also encouraged to apply.

Experience
• Proven, hands-on experience working with integrated accounting systems.
• Demonstrable experience managing all aspects of financial operations, including accounts payable, receivable, reconciliation, and financial reporting.
• Experience in finance business partnering or providing financial advice and support to non-finance staff is highly desirable.
• Experience in presenting financial information clearly and effectively to senior management is desirable.
• Any experience in treasurer or fund investment management is an additional advantage but not essential.

Knowledge
• Solid understanding of accounting concepts, financial reporting, and VAT regulations, ensuring compliance and accurate financial operations.
• A working knowledge of data protection requirements, particularly in the context of a membership organisation, is beneficial.

Skills
• Excellent multitasking ability and a keen eye for detail, with the capacity to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.
• Advanced IT skills, including proficiency with Excel (intermediate to advanced), and strong Office 365 competency to produce reports and manage data efficiently.
• Strong communication skills, both verbal and written, with the ability to interact diplomatically with staff, students, and external stakeholders.
• Ability to work independently under pressure, demonstrating initiative and a solution-oriented approach to problem-solving.

The list above is not exhaustive. We recommend that you read through the Job Pack to understand the scope of what the role entails.

Application Process

To apply, please visit our website, download and complete the application form and the equal opportunities monitoring form below and email your completed application directly to our HR email address.

Once shortlisting is completed, we will contact you and inform you of your progress.

At KCLSU Equality, Diversity and Inclusion are at the heart of everything we do and we endeavour to ensure equal treatment of all candidates. We welcome a diverse range of applicants and are open to discussing flexibility with the right candidate. Reasonable adjustments will be made for candidates with disabilities at all stages of the recruitment and selection process, and to ensure that a successful candidate with a disability can undertake the post.

As you will also see on our Job Pack that we are an equal opportunities employer and live by our 4 main values: Inclusive, Collaborative, Open and Brave. KCLSU is a fun, social and flexible work environment which offers opportunities for development as well as great staff benefits.

Benefits of Working for KCLSU include:

• Hybrid Working Policy 
• Pension Contribution
• Interest Free Season Ticket Loan & Computer Loan
• Cycle to work Scheme
• Enhanced Sick Pay
• Enhanced Maternity and Paternity Pay
• Eye Tests & single focal glasses allowance
• 25 days holiday entitlement & bank holidays & discretionary closure days per annum
• Discounts on KCLSU venues
• Employee Assistance Programme
• "No meeting Friday" ethos
• KEATS Learning Platform & LinkedIn Learning subscription
• Death in Service
• Access to Kings Libraries

Eligibility 

To be eligible to apply for this role you must: 

• Be eligible to work in the UK, and provide proof of this (i.e. a passport/visa) prior to your start date. Please note that KCLSU is unable to provide a visa sponsorship.
• Not be a trustee of King’s College London Students’ Union 
• Have a National Insurance number, or be in the process of applying for one

Thank you for applying with us. We look forward to bringing your talent onboard and working with you!