Head of finance and administration jobs

Organisational Vision & Context:

At TLG, we’re passionate about building an exceptional staff team that’s committed to making a real difference in the lives of struggling children across the UK. We’re always on the lookout for great people to journey with us towards our vision, and we’re excited to offer a unique opportunity for a motivated and mission-driven individual to join our team as Head of Volunteer Programmes.

TLG’s programmes aim to bring fulness of life for every child, no matter what struggles they face. Each programme is different, but the common thread is an unwavering resolve to transform lives for good.

Mobilising over 200 churches and 1,500 volunteers, TLG’s volunteer programmes - Early Intervention and Make Lunch - currently support around 5,000 children and their families each year. However, our vision goes further: we aim to see many more churches partner with us to transform lives for good in their communities.

This Role’s Impact:

We are seeking an experienced people and operations leader who is passionate about the issues of mental health, poverty, and social justice that underpin our volunteer programmes. This role will help us drive even greater impact through our network of church partners.

They will be naturally relational, organised, and collaborative - empowering others to lead where they are and championing the vital role of the local church in community transformation. With an inquisitive and solution-focused mindset, they will be skilled at identifying and guiding new ways of working that strengthen efficiency, productivity and impact.

With excellent people, communication, and training skills, they will lead and develop a staff team responsible for volunteer management, embedding TLG’s culture and values across both programmes. Our new Head of Volunteer Programmes will be a leader who is both operationally sharp and relationally intuitive - able to pioneer with resilience and build a strong, healthy team culture that enables exceptional performance.

TLG is a Christian charity and, as a team, we want to bring our faith to the work we do; as such, we are recruiting an individual with a strong and vibrant Christian faith. We would welcome applications from candidates from diverse backgrounds to enable us to better reflect the needs of the communities we serve.

Hours: Part time, 30 hours per week (0.8 FTE, equivalent 4 days)

Closing Date: Sunday 15th February 2026

Initial Interviews: Monday 23rd February – Online

Final Interviews: Monday 2nd March – at our National Support Centre in West Yorkshire

Organisational Vision & Context:

As we journey towards our vision to bring fulness of life for every child, no matter what struggles they face, we’re looking for a motivated and mission-driven individual to join our team as Head of Programme Development.

While our programmes vary, they share one common thread: an unwavering commitment to seeing lives transformed for good. With two well-established and hugely effective volunteer-driven programmes operating at scale, and two new developing programmes in the early stages of roll-out, TLG is at a pivotal time of innovation.

This Role’s Impact:

We are looking for a dynamic, pioneering leader to energise, shape, and elevate the impact of TLG’s programmes. This person will bring strengths in innovation, collaboration, and strategic delivery – able to inspire others, spot emerging opportunities, and drive meaningful change across the organisation. They will have a strong track record in developing high-quality resources and training, ensuring best practice is consistently embedded across all functions. Naturally creative and forward-thinking, they will champion the exploration and implementation of digital solutions that enhance programme delivery and extend our reach.

The new Head of Programme Development will navigate change with resilience and optimism, leading the way as we explore new approaches and refine what we already do so well. Confident on their feet, yet equally comfortable developing content and materials, they will balance big-picture thinking with a keen eye for detail. Their leadership will drive continuous improvement, so our programmes remain relevant, missional, and high-impact as we pursue our ten-year vision.

As TLG positions itself as a leading practitioner in therapeutic coaching, this leader will bring a solid understanding of coaching practice and how therapeutic coaching can transform a young person’s thinking and strengthen the culture of support we offer. Their expertise will help embed coaching-informed approaches across TLG, shaping programme design and creating richer opportunities for children and young people to reflect and grow, strengthening their wellbeing and future outcomes.

TLG is a Christian charity and, as a team, we want to bring our faith to the work we do; as such, we are recruiting an individual with a strong and vibrant Christian faith. We would welcome applications from candidates from diverse backgrounds to enable us to better reflect the needs of the communities we serve.

Hours: Part time, 30 hours per week (0.8 FTE, equivalent 4 days)

Closing Date: Sunday 15th February 2026

Initial Interviews: Monday 23rd February – Online

Final Interviews: Monday 2nd March – at our National Support Centre in West Yorkshire

This is a brand new leadership role at a pivotal moment for the Greyhound Trust.

We’re creating a new team, with a new remit, to take on a new challenge: driving our work across brand, income generation, marketing, communications and engagement so that more greyhounds can be supported, homed and championed.

As Head of Marketing, Communications and Income Generation, you’ll build and lead a compact, hands-on, multi-disciplinary team, bringing together specialist skills and embedding genuinely integrated, collaborative ways of working. This role will suit someone who enjoys shaping teams as much as shaping strategy — and who is excited by the opportunity to create something from the ground up.

Reporting directly to the Chief Executive, you’ll be a key member of the senior management team, contributing to the organisation’s strategic development, long-term planning and operational effectiveness. You’ll work as part of a highly motivated, close-knit leadership group based at the National Greyhound Centre in Horley, Surrey, where collaboration, mutual support and shared accountability really matter.

Alongside leading the Trust’s brand, marketing and income generation activity, you will also develop and manage our wholly owned trading subsidiary, Greyhound Events Ltd — ensuring it grows sustainably and plays a meaningful role in both income generation and supporter engagement. You’ll see events not just as fundraisers, but as powerful opportunities to build relationships, tell our story and bring new audiences closer to our cause.

You’ll be responsible for creating and delivering an integrated brand, marketing and income generation strategy, grounded in audience insight and sector best practice, and flexible enough to evolve as we grow. From individual giving and digital campaigns to partnerships, events and retail, you’ll oversee a diverse income portfolio while ensuring supporters and volunteers have a consistently positive experience with the Greyhound Trust.

This is a role for a leader who combines strategic vision with practical delivery, and who leads with empathy, creativity and determination. You’ll support colleagues and volunteers across the organisation, champion high standards, and help ensure that everything we do reflects our values — committed, compassionate and determined — always doing what is best for every greyhound.

We are excited to hear from you if you bring experience, energy and a commitment to our casue.

Please see the full JD / Job pack below.

Gloucestershire Counselling Service (GCS) is a leading charity dedicated to providing high-quality counselling and mental health support across the county. We are committed to making a positive impact on the lives of individuals and communities.

We are seeking a Management Accountant to join our team and play a key role in ensuring financial integrity and supporting strategic decision-making. This is a new position within GCS, offering an exciting opportunity to shape processes and contribute to the charity’s success.

Key Responsibilities

•       Prepare monthly management accounts and explain variances against budget.
•     Develop reporting processes for accurate and timely departmental reports.
•     Manage balance sheet reconciliations.
•       Support the Head of Finance & Operations with policy and process development.
•     Assist with payroll submissions for 100+ employees and process payroll journals.
•     Contribute to annual budget preparation and audit processes.

About You

 Qualifications: Professional Accountancy Qualification (CIMA/ACCA/ACA/AAT) or qualified by experience.

 Experience: Minimum 5 years in financial management, budgeting, and reporting (charity sector experience desirable).

Skills: Strong analytical ability, proficiency in Xero and Excel, excellent communication skilss.

Values: Commitment to GCS’s mission and values.

Why Join Us?

•    Flexible hybrid working.
• Opportunity to make a real difference in the voluntary sector.
•   Collaborative and supportive team environment.

1MM Programmes Administrator (Operations & Delivery)

Location: Hybrid working in Greater Manchester, Greater London or Cardiff City Region

Contract: 6 months (continuing subject to funding)

Hours: 37.5 per week

Salary: £25,000 (pro rata)

Rolling recruitment with a final closing date of 12pm on 3rd March 2026 (we may close the application deadline early if we have a high demand of quality applications)

About Us

We are a mentoring charity supporting young people aged 14–25 to build confidence, develop skills, and reach their potential. Our work is powered by committed mentors, strong safeguarding, and high-quality programme delivery — and we’re looking for a highly organised, values-driven Programmes Administrator (Operations & Delivery) to help make it all happen.

About the Role

This is a key role at the heart of our programmes. You’ll support the smooth delivery of mentoring across all regions by coordinating training and events, managing essential systems and checks, and ensuring safeguarding and compliance standards are met at all times.

If you love bringing order to busy programmes, care deeply about young people’s wellbeing, and enjoy working across teams — this role is for you.

What You’ll Be Doing

• Coordinating training workshops and events for mentors and staff
• Supporting mentor recruitment, onboarding, and engagement
• Managing programme communications and bulletins via Brevo
• Administering DocuSign and maintaining accurate records
• Tracking and monitoring DBS checks and suitability processes
• Managing delivery, safeguarding, and enquiries inboxes
• Providing admin support across regions, including mentor engagement
• Supporting HR and operations: including contracts, systems, training, surveys, and tools such as Breathe HR

What We’re Looking For

You’ll be someone who is:

• Passionate about improving outcomes for young people aged 14–25
• Highly organised, detail-focused, and comfortable juggling priorities
• Experienced in event administration
• Confident using digital systems and learning new tools
• 2 years experience in HR and general administration, operations, or programme support
• Calm, professional, and confident handling sensitive information
• Proactive, adaptable, and happy supporting across teams and regions
• Committed to safeguarding and safer recruitment practices

Why Join Us?

• Be part of a mission-driven organisation making real impact
• Play a vital role in safe, high-quality mentoring delivery
• Work with a supportive, values-led team
• Opportunities to learn, grow, and shape better systems

How to Apply

To apply, please submit your CV and a Cover Letter explaining why you’re interested in the role and how your experience matches what we’re looking for.

��️ We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of young people. All roles are subject to safer recruitment checks, including DBS.

Thrive (Community Council for Somerset) is a countywide charity supporting communities to thrive.

Our work starts on the ground. We listen to people, respond to need, and help communities build strength, connection and resilience.

We are growing and changing. Alongside our commissioned work, we are investing in fundraising so we can increase unrestricted income, tell our story better, and build long-term sustainability.

The Fundraising Manager will lead and develop Thrive’s fundraising activity, with trusts and foundations at its core and a growing focus on community fundraising, events, and individual giving.

This role replaces our Trusts and Foundations Officer post and brings together grant fundraising, supporter development and team leadership into one coherent function.

You will line manage our Fundraising Administrator and support their development, including helping them begin to take on smaller grants and applications.

You will also work closely with the Head of Development and Communications to test and develop new income streams over time.

This is a hands-on role for a confident self-starter who understands community development and can translate impact into income.

For more information on what you'll be doing please read the attached job description and person spec.

Business Operations Assistant

Hours: Full time, 35 hours per week
Contract type: Fixed term (12 months)
Salary: £27,500
Reports to: HR Lead

About the role

This is a great opportunity for someone at an early stage of their career who is looking to build experience across operations, HR, governance and project support within a supportive charity environment.

As Business Operations Assistant, you will provide hands-on administrative and coordination support across the organisation. You will work closely with colleagues in Business Operations and across Tommy’s, gaining exposure to a wide range of activities including office coordination, HR processes, governance record-keeping, project administration and basic finance administration such as processing invoices and raising purchase orders.

You will be supported to learn new systems, build confidence and develop practical, transferable skills, while playing an important role in keeping the organisation running smoothly.

What you’ll be doing

Operations administration

• Processing incoming post alongside the data team

• Responding to general enquiries via phone and email, signposting as appropriate

• Providing cover and support for shared external mailboxes, including data protection and accounts

• Delivering general office administration, including filing, data entry, ordering office supplies and managing office equipment

• Supporting financial administration, including raising purchase orders, coordinating invoices for payment and reconciling credit card statements

• Supporting the Office Manager with health and safety compliance

• Assisting with internal meetings and events

• Supporting the COO with administrative tasks as required

• Handling confidential information responsibly and in line with GDPR requirements

Governance support

• Providing administrative support for governance policies, procedures and processes

• Maintaining accurate and up-to-date Trustee records, documents and registers

HR & People support

• Supporting the upkeep of HR processes, guidance and tools

• Helping to maintain HR templates, checklists and the HR SharePoint folder

• Assisting with improving HR workflows and identifying opportunities to streamline administration

• Providing coordination and administrative support to the HR Lead and wider organisation in delivering the People Plan

Project administration

• Providing administrative support to the office refurbishment project, including coordinating with suppliers, the project team and staff

• Supporting a range of Business Operations projects, including meeting coordination, supplier liaison and finance administration

About you

You don’t need to have done all of this before. We are looking for someone who is organised, reliable and keen to learn, with a genuine interest in building experience in operations, HR or office-based roles.

You will bring:

• Some experience in an administrative, office or support role (paid, voluntary or placement)

• Strong organisational skills and attention to detail

• A friendly, approachable and professional communication style

• Ability to prioritise tasks and manage your time effectively

• Willingness to learn new systems and processes

• Good IT skills, including Word, Excel and PowerPoint

Why join Tommy’s?

This role offers a valuable opportunity to gain broad exposure across a charity’s operations, working closely with experienced colleagues in HR, finance, governance and project delivery.

How to apply

Candidates should apply via CharityJob and include a CV and a cover letter (maximum two sides) explaining your motivation for applying and what you hope to gain from the role, as well as the skills and experience you would bring.

Please also complete the diversity monitoring form as part of your application.

About Young Roots

At Young Roots, we want to see a compassionate and welcoming society for young refugees and asylum seekers in the UK. We work alongside young people seeking safety in the UK, building trusted relationships, providing practical and emotional support and promoting young people’s rights and power.

Our youth clubs and casework are transformative for young refugees, allowing young people who have fled danger, had traumatic journeys and who are often here alone, to find community and connection, have a space to be a young person and access support in addressing a whole range of practical challenges they face. We also draw on our evidence from working every day with young refugees and asylum seekers to call for change to the laws and policies which are harming young people. 

About the role

Young Roots is looking for a proactive, values-driven Head of Youth Work to shape our life-changing youth work services for young refugees and asylum seekers. This is a rare opportunity to take strategic ownership of a high-impact service, influence organisational direction as part of our Leadership Group, and work alongside inspiring young people and passionate colleagues.

You need significant experience leading a face-to-face service for people facing complex challenges (for example in youth services, homelessness, mental health or refugee support). You’ll bring strong safeguarding expertise, excellent people leadership and programme management skills, and a track record of developing high-quality, inclusive services.

In this role you will:

• Set a clear and ambitious vision for youth work at Young Roots
• Lead and support Youth Work Managers and multidisciplinary teams
• Champion youth participation and co-production
• Ensure services are safe, compliant, and impactful
• Build partnerships and help shape new projects and funding

If you’re excited by the idea of combining strategy with hands-on leadership, and want to use your skills to support young people to thrive, belong, and build their futures, we’d love to hear from you.

Why join Young Roots

• A senior role with real influence in a respected, impactful organisation
• A collaborative leadership team, highly skilled colleagues and values-led culture
• Flexible, hybrid working

To Apply:

To apply, please submit your CV alongside a personal statement by the closing date outlining how you would be a great fit for the role.

Your personal statement should be no more than 800 words, answering the following questions:

1. What is your motivation for working with Young Roots? (100 words)
2. What is your motivation for applying for this role specifically? (200 words)
3. What skills and experience would you bring that will enable you to be successful in this role?  Please ensure you refer to the essential criteria on the person specification and provide examples to demonstrate how and where you meet the criteria. (500 words)

Please submit your application via Charity Jobs.

No agencies, please.

Closing date: 18th February

Interview dates: 25th February (panel interview in Croydon) and for those successful at the first stage 27th February (young person’s panel).

Young Roots recognises the positive value of diversity, promotes equity and challenges discrimination. We welcome and encourage applications from people of all backgrounds, particularly those who can face disadvantage in employment, such as people from Black, Asian and minority ethnic backgrounds, LGBTQ+ individuals and people with disabilities. As an organisation that supports refugees, asylum seekers and migrants, we particularly welcome applications from people within these communities. We offer a guaranteed interview for those with lived experience of the asylum system and those with disabilities, where they meet the essential elements of the person specification. If aspects of the application process create barriers to you applying and you’d like any adjustment to the process or you’d like an informal discussion or advice on your application, please get in touch. We would also like to alert you to the existence of organisations which support people from under-represented groups to access employment, who can advise you on applying for this role. For example, Scope, Young Women’s Trust and Experts by Experience.

Young Roots is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff to share this commitment. We take this duty very seriously.

Our work is underpinned by policies and procedures which promote safe working practices. We have a framework of training and supervision which everyone is expected to comply with and systems for monitoring, quality assurance and gaining service user feedback. On joining you will be expected to be part of this approach to safeguard our service users.

We're looking for someone with experience of verging or similar church support work. Good social skills are essential as is the ability to work as part of a team as well as on your own initiative.  The ability to work closely with and relate well to all Cathedral staff, ministry team, congregation, volunteers, visitors, and members of the general public will also be required. 

The two Assistant Vergers and Precinct Officers carry out a wide range of duties under the direction of the Head Verger and Precinct Manager.  Work includes: the careful setting up and delivery of all liturgical matters; ensuring a welcoming, clean, and safe environment for all working in, visiting, or using the Cathedral and Cathedral House and precinct and ensuring the day-to-day smooth running of the Cathedral for all.

Essential experience and skills

• A flexible attitude and willingness to take on a range of duties including practical ‘hands- on’ work.
• Attention to detail and an ability to assess priorities including when under pressure.
• Understanding of liturgy or willingness to learn.
• Ability to be a good team player and work collaboratively with Ministry Team and Lay Staff.
• Good administrative and IT skills.
• Good communication and social skills.
• Good understanding of the importance of managing security and health and safety.
• Have an open and welcoming attitude to all including volunteers and members of the general public.
• A trained First Aider (or willing to be trained upon appointment to an appropriate level).
• Willing to learn new skills and undertake training.
• Willing to work alone.
• Ability to work flexibly over seven days and evenings including holiday periods.
• Experience of caretaking duties.

Desirable experience

• At least one year’s experience as a church or cathedral verger or in a similar role.
• Experience of working in an environment where paid and voluntary staff work side by side.
• Experience of delivering events.

Personal qualities

• Excellent interpersonal skills, in particular warmth, tact, diplomacy, discretion, and imagination.
• In sympathy with the ethos and aims of the Cathedral as a Christian organisation.
• Be a communicant member of the Church of England.
• Highly collaborative.
• Ability to lift and carry furniture, climb stairs, walk, and stand unaided for significant periods of time and work at height as an occupational requirement
• Ability to work with senior level colleagues and with the general public.
• Committed to equal opportunities and inclusivity
• Committed to upholding the highest standards of safeguarding practice.

Benefits of working at Portsmouth Cathedral:

Generous leave allowance of 25 days (pro rata for part-time posts) plus all public holidays and two 'given' days after Christmas/New Year.

Employer pension contributions of 7.5%, employee contribution 1.0%

Cash health plan

Safeguarding. The Cathedral takes the safeguarding of children and vulnerable adults very seriously, and practices Safer Recruitment for all roles (both paid and voluntary), enhanced DBS for specific roles, and face-to-face or online training as required.   An enhanced DBS is required for this role.

Portsmouth Cathedral is an Equal Opportunities Employer and a member of Inclusive Church.

Closing date for applications: 11.00pm 15th February 

Interviews will be held w/c 2nd March

We’re looking for a Governance, Risk and Compliance Assistant to support Battersea’s Governance, Risk and Compliance (GRC) function to drive robust risk management, high quality governance practices and diligent Data Protection services.

The role reports into the Governance and Environmental Sustainability Team and will work across three of the managers in the team providing administrative, operational and project support and co-ordination.

This role is critical in maintaining accurate records, monitoring progress, and supporting timely reviews to meet regulatory and internal standards.

What we can offer you:

In return for your commitment to our cause and to recognise the value of our employees, Battersea offers a range of benefits to support the wellbeing of our employees. These include:

• 28 days of annual leave (plus 8 days paid public holidays) per year
• Discounted gym membership and cycle to work schemes
• Employee Assistance Programme and access to Wellbeing Resources
• Generous pension contributions - up to 10% employer contribution
• Free healthcare cash plan, where you can claim for a range of treatment including dental, optical, physiotherapy, chiropody and acupuncture every year
• Annual interest-free season ticket loans

We are also committed to providing learning and development to our employees. During your time with us, we provide support for your professional and career development, including access to digital and in-person training programmes, leadership and management training, mentoring and much more.

Our hybrid working model:

We operate a 50% onsite hybrid working model, with our office-based staff splitting their time between site based and home working. This enables our office-based staff to balance the benefits of home working with onsite collaboration and maintaining a connection to our cause.

Diversity and inclusion:

We are committed to providing a welcoming and inclusive experience for all staff, volunteers and trustees and those hoping to join us. We operate an anonymised shortlisting process and actively seek to ensure our process is fair and equitable for all.

We understand the value of diverse voices, perspectives, and experiences to help us deliver even more for our dogs and cats, and we welcome applicants from all sections of the community.

As a Disability Confident Committed Employer we will ask about any adjustments you may need at application and/or interview stage, and if you are offered a role with us, we’ll talk to you about any workplace adjustments you may need to help you perform at your best. If you would like to talk more about this, please contact us. Greyscale copies of the recruitment pack are also available on request.

More about us:

At Battersea, we aim to never turn away a dog or cat in need of help. We give each one lots of love, expert care and get to know their characters and quirks so we can find them a new home that’s just right for them. Join us and help us be here for every dog and cat, wherever they are, for as long as they need us.

Acceptable use of AI:

At Battersea, we value expertise. We recognise each candidate that applies to us will have a range of expertise they can offer us, so we want to hear about this in your own words. We understand the support that generative artificial intelligence (AI) software can offer but it can also lead to numerous applications presenting as generic and impersonal. This makes it difficult to gain understanding of your unique experience.

To best showcase yourself, we encourage you to write your responses without the assistance of AI. If you require the use of AI software to aid in completing your application, we ask you use the generative responses as a prompt for writing your answers and avoid copying and pasting. You must also ensure the information presented in your application accurately reflects your experience.

Closing date: 26th February 2026

All applications must be submitted before the closing date advertised. We reserve the right to close the vacancy early if a high volume of applications is received.

Interview Date(s): To be confirmed (two stages, one online and one in person)

For full details on the role, please download the recruitment pack..

Are you looking for a dynamic and rewarding role working for an organisation with the feminist agenda at the core of its ethos? Do you believe in our values; to listen and support, to empower and respect, collaborate, innovate, and take accountability? 

Then working at Advance Charity could be the career choice for you!

We are looking for a Bid Officer (Bid Writer)

Salary: £34,000 - £39,000 per annum

Location: Hammersmith Head Office

Hours: 35 hours (full time)

Contract: Permanent

We recognise that many working women have commitments outside of work, so we’re open to discuss flexible working options and solutions that suit you, and still suit the needs of the business. Please indicate in your supporting statement if you’d like to discuss flexible working options with the Hiring Manager, should they contact you regarding your application.

About us:

Advance Charity is a well-respected, award-winning, and innovative women-only organisation, established in 1998, providing emotional and practical support to women experiencing domestic abuse, and supporting women with short-term sentences to reduce offending.

About the role:
As the Bid Officer, you will support statutory and non-statutory funding across Advance’s services, with oversight by the Development Manager and support from the Development and Fundraising Co-ordinator. They will also provide assistance to the Head of Fundraising. The role will ensure a high standard of professional bids are created, showing strong attention to detail, an ability to work under pressure and to demanding deadlines.

You will plan and produce compliant proposal documents, bringing together expertise, best practice, research and data to develop compelling tender responses. Your role will be responsible for shaping service delivery models in collaboration with internal subject matter experts, bid writing and editing, coordinating the final document review and document governance. 

Please note: In this role we are always exploring new technology and tools to support better ways of working, however the sector we work in means that we are often required to submit bids that are written without AI involvement. We need someone with great writing skills in this role and will be testing this with an in-person assessment as part of our recruitment process.

Key responsibilities include (but are not limited to):

• Plan and write compliant, professionally produced proposals within defined timeframes and coordinate supplementary documents required

• Foster collaboration and coordinate proposal input from a variety of stakeholders including Services, Evidence and Insights, People team, Finance and Governance team, Safeguarding

• Undertake editing of proposals, including spelling and grammar checks, and share with internal stakeholders for final approval in advance

• Project manage the writing of smaller tenders/grant applications including responsible for agreeing budget with Finance team

• Ensure all supplementary documents, including approval documents, are produced in a timely fashion and accompanying governance processes are completed

• Follow team processes for filing and version control

• Work alongside external partners to inform competitive bid submissions

• Support preparation for tender handover following contract award with Implementation Manager

• Monitor statutory and non-statutory funding opportunities (local authority, central government, trusts) via portals and support existing services to prepare for retender

• Brief leadership on go/no go decisions

• Conduct post-proposal reviews and support continuous improvement of the department

About You:

To be successful as the Bid Officer you’ll need the below experience and skills:

• Experience of writing successful tenders, proposals or grant submissions, with excellent written and verbal skills that support coordination of clear, compelling and concise bid responses

• Excellent attention-to-detail and accuracy with strong editing and proof-reading skills

• A pro-active approach to developing strong working relationships with staff at all levels of the organisation and with external stakeholders

• Be highly organised and solutions-focused, able to plan, prioritise and meet deadlines under pressure

• Be committed to Advance’s values and ethos, with a clear understanding of safeguarding, equality, diversity and inclusion in the delivery of statutory services.

This post is open to female applicants only as being female is deemed to be a genuine occupational requirement under Schedule 9, Paragraph 1 of the Equality Act 2010.  

Please note: Any offer of employment will be made subject to references and confirmation of the right to work in the UK, and satisfactory enhanced DBS check.

How to apply:

Please submit your up-to-date CV with a supporting statement. Please note that only applications made via the job advert will be considered. 

Please see the end of the advert for the downloadable Job Specification

Closing Date for Applications: 26th February 2026 *Advance reserves the right to extend the advert and/or close the advertisement early, or on the appointment of a candidate

Interviews are taking place: Between 3rd to 9th March 2026 (this may be subject to change),

We recognise that women often only apply to roles if they meet 100% of the criteria (whereas men apply if they meet only 60% of the requirements). We encourage you to demonstrate how your skills and experience would make you an asset to the role, and if you don’t have the exact skills/experience, tell us in your cover letter how you think you might grow and develop in the role.

Under the Equality Act 2010, we are required to make any reasonable adjustments. If you have a disability as defined under this act and/or have additional needs, please email the Talent Acquisition Team will aim to make the necessary arrangements to accommodate your needs.

What we can offer you - Employee Benefits: 

• An exceptional 30 days of paid holiday per year (pro rata for part time), PLUS public holidays on top (that's nearly 40 days paid holiday per year!) 

• Additional days off to celebrate International Women’s Day, and for religious observance and moving home

• Perkbox - an employee discount platform where you can receive free rewards as well as take advantage of savings on clothes, groceries, travel, leisure and more

• Pension scheme

• Enhanced maternity/adoption provision

• Access to our Employee Assistance Programme

• Access to Yoga/Meditation and many more activities on our wellbeing online platform

• Employee eye-care scheme

• Clinical supervision for front line staff and first line management roles

• Refer a Friend Scheme - £250 for each referral who passes probation

• Organisation wide away days-

• Thorough induction and training

• Career development pathways 

Diversity, Inclusion and Equal Opportunities

We value diversity and believe the variety of ideas, perspectives and experiences it brings creates an effective environment in which talents can be fully utilised to achieve our goals.

We are committed to providing equality of opportunity and actively seek to recruit people from groups underrepresented in our current team. We have policies and processes in place to ensure that all employees are offered an equal opportunity in recruitment and selection, promotion, training, pay and benefits.

Arvon, the UK's most renowned creative writing charity, is looking for an experienced and dynamic Management Accountant (Maternity Cover) to work closely with its CFO on the preparation of management accounts, budgeting and forecasting processes, as well as other key finance tasks. Arvon has been delivering courses from its three beautiful houses for over 57 years, and you would be joining a dedicated and spirited national team, all of whom are passionately committed to delivering on Arvon's transformational charitable mission.

WORKING WITH US

The founder and sponsor of the Harris Federation, Lord Harris of Peckham, opened our first school in 1990. We have, over the past thirty years, implemented ideas and initiatives that have transformed the opportunities of pupils from working class and disadvantaged backgrounds. Harris academies are widely recognised as a force for social mobility. We are immensely proud of the role that our alumni are now beginning to play in the world and of what we believe our current generation of pupils will go on to achieve.

We now have over 50 schools educating more than 40,000 young people across London and Essex, and employ over 5,000 staff across our academies and head office. With the majority of our academies located in areas of high socioeconomic disadvantage, a high-quality education is key to the futures of the pupils we serve.

As a provider of employment and education, we value the diversity of our staff and students, and all our staff are equally valued and respected. We are committed to providing a fair, equitable and mutually supportive learning and working environment for our students and staff.

Our work will impact many generations to come, and our staff come from all backgrounds and walks of life, coming together to inspire young minds. We promote an inclusive culture that embraces the valuable and enriching contribution that all of our community make. We continue to be proactive in uplifting and supporting all voices at Harris.

To discover more about our culture, ethos and what it is like to work here, visit the page.

ABOUT THIS OPPORTUNITY

We are seeking an organised, proactive and professional Personal Assistant to provide high-level support to the Director of Secondary Education at the Harris Federation. This 1-year fixed-term maternity cover role is central to ensuring the smooth running of the Director’s day-to-day operations, including diary management, stakeholder communication, meeting coordination and the preparation of key documents.

As part of our Head Office team, you will work closely with senior leaders and colleagues across our secondary academies, playing an important role in supporting the Federation’s mission to deliver an outstanding education for thousands of young people. This is an excellent opportunity for someone who thrives in a fast-paced environment, demonstrates exceptional attention to detail, and enjoys building strong, professional relationships.

MAIN AREAS OF RESPONSIBILITY

Your responsibilities will include:

• To present the professional and welcoming face of the Harris Federation and all secondary academies, to all visitors, staff and students, in person and on the telephone.
• To ensure that the Director’s diary is managed efficiently and effectively. This will involve liaising with a variety of external and internal stakeholders.
• To provide a daily/weekly diary and documentation and maintain an overview of approaching deadlines.
• To maintain the Director’s contacts.
• To maintain an exemplary professional environment for the Director at all times.
• To ensure that all visitors are welcomed and catered for in a professional manner, organising refreshments as appropriate.
• To exercise complete discretion when dealing with issues of confidentiality and sensitivity.
• To take all telephone calls, in the first instance, dealing with queries, passing on calls if necessary.
• To keep the Director’s meetings file and retrieve necessary paperwork as and when meetings arise.
• To be responsible for organising meetings and passing on messages between all stakeholders, parents/carers, external agencies and students and the Director.
• To liaise with clerks to Governors to ensure that all relevant paperwork and correspondence is efficiently managed for all the secondary academies.
• To support the Director with the preparation of paperwork and presentations for a range of meetings including interviews, disciplinary hearings, grievances, performance management, presentations, training sessions etc.
• To liaise with Federation admin teams, Data, HR, IT and Finance Business Managers, as well as PAs and Principals across the Federation as appropriate.

For a full list of responsibilities, please download the Job Pack.

WHAT WE ARE LOOKING FOR

We would like to hear from you if you have:

• Appropriate degree or equivalent experience in previous roles
• Trained in the use of a variety of ICT packages
• Knowledge of personal assistant roles and responsibilities
• Training in typing and formatting of a variety of documents including spreadsheets
• Experience of managing staff in relation to the PA role
• Some experience of human resources e.g. recruitment and/or monitoring attendance
• Experience of working to targets and deadlines
• Experience of managing meetings including preparation and circulation of papers, minutes and ensuring information is circulated as required
• Ability to communicate well both orally and in writing
• Ability to work to deadlines
• Ability to be flexible
• Ability to communicate exceptionally well with parents and carers as well as other stakeholders in the academy

For a full job specification, please download the Job Pack.

APPLYING FOR THIS POSITION

If you would like to discuss the opportunity further, or if you have any questions, please contact us via email to arrange a conversation.

Before applying please ensure you download the job pack from our careers website, this will help with completing your application. Please note that we only accept applications submitted online before the closing date.

When applying, you will have the option to import your CV or use a LinkedIn profile which will auto populate the online application.

A reminder to check your junk mail for our email communications and add us to your safe senders list to ensure all future email communication is received.

OUR VISION & VALUES

Our vision, from the start, has been to provide the structure and services needed for our schools to amount to more than the sum of their parts, and to free-up our teachers and leaders to focus on one thing and one thing only: the outstanding education of all their pupils. Our young people and communities are at the heart of everything we do. Our core mission has always been to close the educational gap between young people from disadvantaged backgrounds and their peers. Our ambition is one where every child in London, no matter their background, has equal access to high quality education, giving them the same opportunities and potential to succeed.

We know there are many challenges facing our young people and the communities we serve, and that’s why we need determined people like you to help us tackle those inequalities. Whilst each of our academies has their own unique cultures and values; as a whole Federation, we have four core values which are central to successfully achieving our vision: Excellence, Collaboration, Support, and Innovation. We are proud of our values because they guide us in how we work allowing us to achieve the best possible outcomes for our young people, communities, and colleagues.

IMPORTANT INFORMATION

Safeguarding Notice

The Harris Federation and all our academies are committed to ensuring the highest levels of safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people, and we expect all our staff and volunteers to share this commitment. All offers of employment are subject to an enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check, references, an online search, and where applicable, a prohibition from teaching check will be completed.

Equal Opportunities

The Harris Federation is an equal opportunities employer and welcomes applications from all suitably qualified candidates. We value the diversity of our staff and students, and everyone at the Harris Federation is equally valued and respected. We aim to be an inclusive employer that reflects the communities we serve. We are committed to providing a fair, equitable and mutually supportive learning and working environment.

WHAT WE CAN OFFER YOU

Harris has a strong culture of collaboration and best practice, with professional development and career planning at its centre. We invest in our staff with support, coaching, mentoring, and a wide range of top-quality training programmes delivered at every level.

You will also have access to a variety of benefits, support programmes and initiatives including:

• Excellent opportunities for continuous professional development and career progression
• Annual performance and loyalty bonus
• Pension scheme (Teachers' Pension Scheme or Local Government Pension Scheme) with generous employer contribution
• 26 days' annual leave (inclusive of our Christmas Eve closure day) plus bank holidays, rising to 27 days after 2 years' service, or equivalent for staff on term time contracts
• Harris Wellbeing Cash Plan including cover for routine and specialist healthcare
• Employee Assistance Programme for free and confidential advice
• Cycle to work salary sacrifice scheme
• Wide range of shopping, leisure, and travel discounts
• 20% off at Tapi Carpets, exclusive to Harris employees
• Interest-free ICT and season ticket loans

For most non-teaching staff based at our Head Office in East Croydon, we also offer lifestyle friendly working arrangements including flexible start and end times, and hybrid working with two days from home and three days on site.

The SHM Foundation is a forward-looking philanthropic organisation working globally to drive positive social change in the areas of mental health and wellbeing, education and livelihoods, and the arts. 

Our mission is to support people, communities and organisations in developing solutions to the challenges they face, in the ways that work for them. We work with them to improve their mental health and wellbeing; gain new skills, knowledge and employment opportunities; and access excellent artistic experiences that enrich their lives. 

We design and implement our own initiatives, conduct participatory research and provide grants to other organisations and projects through our Ember Fund. Ember finds, mentors and funds excellent community-based initiatives in low-resource settings. Our mission is to partner with and support a diverse, inclusive ecosystem of mental health care to grow and thrive worldwide, so that everyone can access the help they need, where they are, in ways that work for them. 

Based in the UK but with a fantastic global team, we have offices in London and Nairobi, and work with partners in over 20 countries. We have a long history of work in Africa, and in 2025 we set up SHM Foundation Africa whose work helps communities access tertiary education and mental health support, unlock creativity through an arts-based economic model and enriching artistic experiences and gain new skills, knowledge and employment opportunities. We believe firmly that ripple effects are felt in communities when people feel supported, cared for and able to exercise agency in their own lives.

 We are looking for an Assistant Accountant for the SHM Foundation. The Foundation has grown considerably over the past few years, and we are now at a stage that we need someone dedicated to the role of Accounts to develop and support the finances of the Foundation as the Foundation continues to grow. This is an exciting and dynamic role; the Foundation has a pioneering approach to philanthropy, and we are looking to continue to be innovative in our approach and the way we support communities across the globe.

Overview of Role

Job Title

Assistant Accountant

Contract detail

Full-Time Permanent, 6-month probation 

Line Manager

Head of Finance

Role Summary

A role with the opportunity to develop and grow. The role is integral to the success of Finance at SHM.

Core Responsibilities

· Accounts Payable and receivable functions

· Assist with the production of monthly management accounts,

· Posting accruals and prepayments

· Bank Reconciliations

· Managing the suppliers’ payments

· Assist with internal and external audit

· Assist with annua budgets and regular reforecasts.

· Restricted funding administration

· Ensure costs are recorded accurately against projects

· Accounts Reconciliations

· Assist in the month end process.

· Assist with preparation of weekly, monthly and year end reports

· Liaising on accounting transactions with SHM Foundation Africa Treasurer

· Assist in developing budgets for  fundraising projects and grants 

Additional Activities

· General finance administrative tasks

Direct Reports

N/A

Relevant Skills

The successful candidate will:

· Have an eye for quality and real attention to detail, applying high levels of rigour and attention to detail to their work and being willing to look at their own work critically

· Strong communication skills both verbal and written.

· A problem-solving attitude and a proactive mindset.

· Feel comfortable working and developing expertise in a fast-paced environment

· Have technical competence in the Microsoft Office suite including advanced competency in Microsoft Excel

· Knowledge of Sage would be required

· Always acting discreetly, you value integrity and accountability in your interactions with stakeholders, team members and customers

· Hard working with can-do-attitude, organised, able to meet deadlines, eager to learn

Qualifications & Experience

· ACCA/CIMA part qualified who is proactively working on completing their qualification.

· Intermediate to advance excel

· Knowledge of SORP (desirable)

· Understanding of fund accounting and Restricted grants reporting

· At least 24 months’ experience working in a finance department.