Head of finance jobs

Head of Finance and Operations

Salary: £50,000 – £54,000 per annum (depending on skills and experience)

Location: Manchester (Hybrid working with regular office attendance: 2 days a week)

Contract: Permanent, Full Time

About CLES

CLES is an independent economics think tank and charity dedicated to tackling the UK’s most pressing economic challenges. For over 40 years, we have collaborated with local governments, the NHS, national government, universities, and communities to create impactful, practical solutions. Our expertise in community wealth building has gained international recognition, and we embody our progressive ethos by offering a four-day full-pay working week. At CLES, we foster a deeply collaborative and flexible environment where strong relationships are valued, reflected in our regular social activities and annual residential gatherings.

The Opportunity

We are seeking a proactive and detail-oriented Head of Finance and Operations who will play a crucial role in steering our financial and operational functions. Working closely with our senior management team, you will combine strategic insights with hands-on delivery, ensuring the efficient management of our financial systems, governance, and HR processes. You will be supported by a dedicated Finance and Office Administrator, allowing you to focus on higher-level financial oversight and operational excellence.

Key Responsibilities:

• Manage day-to-day finances including cash flow, financial controls, and oversight of bookkeeping tasks.
• Prepare and present quarterly and annual management accounts, VAT returns, and payroll submissions.
• Lead the administration of governance, working closely with the board of trustees on compliance and regulatory filings.
• Oversee daily office operations, including IT infrastructure and health and safety.
• Administer HR processes such as recruitment, onboarding, and the management of employee records.

About You:

• You possess a recognised accounting qualification (ideally ACA, ACCA, CIMA) or AAT Level 4, with substantial senior-level charity finance experience.
• Demonstrated experience in financial management, including preparation of management accounts and familiarity with accounting software such as Sage.
• Strong understanding of governance and compliance within a charity context, alongside experience in HR administration.
• Excellent organisational skills and a proactive, solutions-focused approach to work.
• Proven ability to communicate effectively with diverse stakeholders, building trust and collaboration.

Our Offer to You:

• A four-day working week with full pay for a 30-hour commitment.
• Flexible and hybrid working options, promoting a healthy work-life balance.
• Generous holiday entitlement, starting at 20 days (the equivalent of 5 full weeks off) and rising to 24 days (6 weeks) with service, plus additional leave for birthdays and Christmas.
• A robust pension scheme with an employer contribution starting at 6% and increasing with tenure.
• A supportive learning and development culture, with a dedicated budget for professional growth and annual team retreats.

Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion

CLES is committed to fostering an inclusive workspace and welcomes applications from diverse backgrounds. We actively encourage candidates from all sections of the community to apply.

How to Apply

Click apply and you will be redirected to our careers page which has instructions on how to submit your application.

Please note, we are operating a rolling recruitment process, so early applications are encouraged. Initial application cutoff is Monday, 24th of August 2026 at 9:00am. Interviews are scheduled for Wednesday, 2nd of September 2026. If we do not fill the position, the advert will remain open for ongoing applications.

We look forward to welcoming you to our team at CLES!

At WSUP, we believe everyone deserves access to safe water and sanitation. As a leading international development organisation operating across Africa and Asia, we work with governments, utilities and communities to create sustainable solutions that improve millions of lives.

We are seeking an experienced and collaborative Head of Finance to lead our finance function and help ensure the financial sustainability and effectiveness of our organisation. Reporting to the Chief Operating Officer, you will provide expert financial leadership, oversee governance and compliance, support strategic decision-making, and lead a talented international finance team. You will lead a team of 5-10 core finance staff and indirectly support Country Finance Managers in 4 - 6 programme countries. 

We are looking for someone who combines strong technical finance expertise with excellent people leadership skills and the ability to build effective relationships across a diverse and international organisation. This is an ideal opportunity for someone who is motivated by using their skills to create meaningful social impact.

What We Offer

• Hybrid Working
• Up to 5% matched pension contribution
• Flexible working arrangements
• Life assurance
• Employee Assistance Programme
• 24-hour GP service
• Enhanced maternity leave: 12 weeks at 90% pay, followed by 12 weeks at 50% pay
• Enhanced paternity leave: up to 4 weeks' paid leave
• A supportive, collaborative and mission-driven working environment

Our Commitment to Inclusion

WSUP is committed to building a diverse and inclusive organisation where everyone feels valued, respected and able to thrive.

We are committed to building a diverse and inclusive organisation and encourage applications from people from a wide range of backgrounds and experiences.

The National Biodiversity Network Trust is the UK charity dedicated to making biodiversity data accessble and useful. We co-ordinate the National Biodiversity Network, develop the NBN Atlas, support iNaturalistUK and are developing the NBN Record Manager. Our work connects biological recording, digital infrastructure and better decisions for nature across the UK. 

Our vision is Nature thriving everywhere, in all its diversity,.Our mission is Making data work for nature. 

This is a senior and pivotal role. The Head of Finance & Operations is the Chief Executive Officer's trusted strategic and operational partner on finance, governance, people systems, risk and organisational operations. They provide calm judgement, clear information, early warning and reliable follow-through. The role will turn strategy into affordable and deliverable plans, protect the Trust's financial resilience, and ensure that its core systems and controls enable colleagues to do their best work. They will combine strategic leadership with a willingness to enage in the practical detail when needed. 

More details, including on how to apply and a Recruitment FAQ, are available on our website. 

At WECIL, we're looking for an experienced and values-driven finance leader who combines strong technical expertise with a genuine commitment to social impact. As our Head of Finance, you'll play a pivotal role in shaping the financial sustainability of the organisation, providing strategic insight that enables us to continue challenging barriers to independent living and supporting Disabled people to thrive. You'll be equally comfortable contributing at a strategic level with Trustees and senior leaders, while ensuring robust financial management, compliance and governance across the organisation.

This is a newly created role and an exciting opportunity for someone who wants to make a lasting impact. We're seeking a leader who enjoys building and improving systems, strengthening financial processes, and creating the tools, controls and insights that help an organisation thrive. You'll have the opportunity to shape the future development of the finance function, driving continuous improvement and embedding approaches that support better decision-making, efficiency and organisational resilience.

We're looking for someone who is collaborative, proactive and able to translate complex financial information into clear, practical advice. You'll bring experience of leading high-performing finance functions, building strong relationships across an organisation, and supporting informed decision-making through effective planning, forecasting and analysis. Above all, you'll share WECIL's commitment to inclusion, empowerment and the Social Model of Disability, and be motivated by the opportunity to use your expertise to make a meaningful difference in people's lives

Team: Finance & Resources

Locations: Hybrid – at our office (Argon House, Argon Mews, London SW6 1BJ) and remotely at home. A minimum of two days a week at the office (including our all-staff Wednesday) 

Duration: Permanent (with six months’ probation)

Reporting to: CEO

Hours: 35 hours per week, Monday-Friday

Salary: Starting salary £60,000 

The post holder will be responsible for the following: 

Finance 

• Maintain appropriate and comprehensive finance and accounting policies and procedures including payment authorisations, cash management etc. 

• Provide clear and accurate financial information, budgets and forecasts to the trustees, CEO fundraising team and other departments as required. 

• Manage strategic relationship with key partner organisations such as bookkeepers/auditors/payroll providers/banks etc. 

• Overall responsibility, with support from the external bookkeeper and internal staff, for: 

• Ensuring accurate recording and maintenance of finance data, including accurate classification of income. 

• Ensuring balance sheet and bank is reconciled and reviewed monthly. 

• Preparing and developing monthly Management Accounts. 

• Oversee preparation of the annual financial statements and manage the external audit. 

• Oversee payroll and pension process, engaging with external payroll support, including administering monthly payroll and fortnightly payroll during the Winter Night Shelter season. 

Legal and compliance 

• Overall responsibility for compliance with all legislation / codes. 

• Ensure Companies House, Charity Commission, HMRC and Pensions Regulator requirements 

 are met in a timely fashion. 

Risk management 

• Overall responsibility for risk management, including timely and accurate completion of relevant risk assessments, maintaining and developing the organisation's risk register, and procuring and maintaining appropriate insurance cover. 

• Overall functional responsibility for health and safety. 

Office Management  

• Overall responsibility for information technology across the organisation, which is implemented day-to-day by the IT support providers. 

• Ensure Glass Door has appropriate office space which meets all legal requirements and government regulations, environmental, health and security standards. 

• Organise and review general administrative processes and induct new staff on relevant office processes, including data protection, security and fire safety.

• Support and line manage the receptionist and office volunteers to ensure that we deliver high levels of service to staff, guests and other visitors, creating a warm and welcoming environment 

People Management 

• Manage the HR function: 

• Ensure Glass Door is an attractive and rewarding place to work and staff deliver their potential. 

• Review, identify and implement improvements in the HR function to optimise effectiveness and efficiency. 

• Lead on managing employee relations. 

• Support and line manage the Finance & Resources team (HR Manager, receptionists). 

• Conduct regular supervision meetings and performance appraisals. 

Senior Leadership Team 

• Operate as part of the Glass Door senior leadership team, with a particular remit to ensure that we are fulfilling our financial and compliance objectives. 

• Support the CEO and colleagues in setting the strategic direction for Glass Door. 

• Represent the CEO on internal or external matters, if appropriate. 

Governance 

• Manage the Resources Committee and Finance Committee on behalf of the trustees. 

• Assist in managing the Board of Trustees e.g. co-ordinate diaries, set dates, drafting and circulating agendas and papers. 

• Organise the Annual General Meeting, including drafting papers and corresponding with members. 

• Co-ordinate the annual policy review process for Finance & Resources (finance, legal, HR, data, governance) and Fundraising & Communications (fundraising, communications). 

• Manage the Glass Door complaints process.

Person Specification 

Essential 

Personal Qualities 

• Empathetic attitude towards homeless and vulnerably-housed people. 

• A confident self-starter who will hit the ground running. 

• Ability to operate at a range of levels; with both gravitas and relate-ability 

• A team worker with an open, collaborative style and a practical, “can-do” approach. 

• Commitment to our values of being welcoming; being open to all, without prejudice; 

compassionate; believing individuals can turn their lives around; and knowing we can have a 

bigger impact when we work together. 

• Commitment to and understanding of the issues relating to equality of opportunity and the 

ability to implement change in this area. 

• Ability to adhere to and implement Health & Safety, HR and operational policies. 

Qualifications and Experience 

• Minimum CIMA or CIPFA qualification. 

• Minimum five years’ in-house employment experience post-qualification. 

• Experience of leading and inspiring a team. 

• Experience of budgeting and financial planning, including modelling / scenario planning. 

• Experience with month end reporting. 

Knowledge, Skills, Abilities 

• Excellent working knowledge of accounting software systems e.g. Xero. 

• Fully conversant with best practice in accounting procedures. 

• Excellent organisational skills with strong attention to detail, especially record-keeping and 

electronic filing. 

• Strong written English and numeracy skills. 

• Excellent skills in Microsoft Office software (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Adobe Acrobat Pro, and 

databases). 

• Good interpersonal and verbal communication skills. 

• Ability to forward plan and schedule workflows. 

• Ability to relate to and work with people from a range of backgrounds. 

Desirable 

• ACA or ACCA qualification. 

• Experience of working with homeless people or similar disadvantaged client groups and an 

understanding of their needs. 

• Experience of working in the not-for-profit sector. 

• Experience of charity accounting/ the SORP. 

• Experience of risk management. 

• An understanding of GDPR and health and safety legislation. 

Hours: Full-time

Pay: Up to £52,890 GBP gross per annual (dependent on experience)

Duration: Permanent

Location: UK-Med Office, Manchester, UK with hybrid working (approximately 30% on-site)

Do you have the expertise to ensure strong financial systems, compliance, and controls in a growing humanitarian organisation?

UK-Med is a frontline medical aid charity. Born of the NHS, we’ve been working for over 30 years towards a world where everyone has the healthcare they need when crises or disasters hit.

As UK-Med continues to expand its global reach and strengthen its international operations, we are investing in the financial leadership that underpins our humanitarian impact. In this context, the new Head of Finance (International) will play a pivotal role in ensuring the integrity, effectiveness, and resilience of UK-Med’s global financial management.

You’ll oversee financial governance, compliance, and grant management across our international programmes, ensuring that systems and reporting are robust, efficient, and aligned with donor and statutory requirements. Based in the UK, you’ll work closely with colleagues across Finance, Operations, and Programmes to strengthen financial controls, manage risk, and support sound decision-making that enables UK-Med to respond rapidly and effectively to humanitarian crises around the world.

This is an exciting opportunity for someone who thrives on supporting operational delivery, ensuring high-quality financial reporting, and strengthening systems. You’ll bring together technical excellence and strong leadership skills, working collaboratively and effectively in a complex, fast-changing environment. Your contribution will directly enable UK-Med to respond rapidly to emergencies and make a tangible impact on people affected by crises.

We offer a competitive salary and benefits, a collaborative and supportive working environment, and the opportunity to make a real difference through humanitarian work.

UK-Med is a growing and ambitious organisation with a passionate team of staff, members, and volunteers. This is a truly exciting opportunity to shape the future of our financial function and support our mission to provide healthcare in emergencies worldwide.

How to apply

We strongly recommend that you read the Candidate Information Pack - Head of Finance (International) - August 2026 before applying for this role.

To apply, please submit a current CV and a supporting letter (2 pages) through our online jobs portal.

Please apply below, as soon as possible and no later than Monday 24th of August 2026.

We welcome applications from candidates based in the UK and internationally. While being based in the UK would be advantageous due to the role’s close collaboration with UK-Med’s Manchester-based teams, it is not an essential requirement, and internationally based candidates will be fully considered.

UK-Med is committed to safeguarding of our personnel and beneficiaries and has a zero-tolerance approach to sexual exploitation and abuse. We conduct thorough vetting before any appointment is confirmed.

UK-Med is committed to the principles of diversity, equality, and inclusion. We strive to provide an inclusive and supportive environment where employees feel respected and supported to be able to fulfill their potential.

Who we are

Chefs in Schools is a young, ambitious charity that’s rapidly growing. Our mission is to improve kids' health, through improving school food & food education. Working in areas of high deprivation, we support and train schools and their kitchen teams to serve the best, freshest and tastiest food possible, alongside meaningful food education. We share our learning and resources freely, aiming to inspire and enable others to follow our lead.

We’re backed by some of the biggest names in food and have ambitious targets to ensure every child has access to incredible school food and food education, setting them up for life with the skills and knowledge to feed themselves well.

About you and the role

This is a pivotal role, at a pivotal moment for us. We are entering a critical growth phase, which includes rapidly expanding our own operations and managing significant external partnership. As Head of Finance & Systems, you will be accountable for ensuring we have the right systems and structures in place to grow at pace without detriment to good governance.

The purpose of this role is to lead on our finance strategy, and ensure all of our systems, reporting and processes are helping to drive forward the charity and deliver on our objectives at scale. You will work closely with the Chief Executive and Directors to ensure that financial planning is effective and supported by accurate data analysis. You will report directly to Trustees as required and ensure that the highest standards of transparency and probity are maintained. 

You will be joining the team during a period of growth in the size and complexity of our delivery. We currently have 24 employees and anticipate growing significantly in the next twelve months. You will have a crucial role in shaping our systems and processes to ensure we can scale effectively, both our existing programmes and a new membership-based programme that is in development. We’re looking for an experienced finance professional with an interest in effectively using technology and systems to drive efficiency, without compromising on accuracy or compliance. 

You will oversee all financial administration, ensuring this is carried out proficiently and in line with all legal and regulatory requirements, including ultimate responsibility for ensuring that all statutory filings are made accurately and on time. Your role will also encompass ensuring that we operate within legal & regulatory frameworks and stay up to date with changes in relevant legislation.

The responsibilities, skills and experience listed below are intended to give you an idea of what we need for this role. If you don’t meet every requirement, but feel as though you would be able to work with us to deliver the majority of them, we would urge you to apply anyway. We are dedicated to building a diverse and inclusive workplace, and for us the most important ‘experience’ is passion for our mission. You may be just the right candidate for this, or other roles.  

We want to get to know you at the interview and understand we can do this best if you’re at ease. We’re an inclusive employer and work hard to create a welcoming working environment for everyone, including appointing a neurodiversity champion to help us identify how we can make our work environment work for everyone. If you need adjustments to the interview process please let us know.

As we work with children & young people, an offer of employment will be subject to satisfactory references and DBS clearance, in line with our safeguarding policy.  

Key responsibilities:

• Developing a comprehensive financial strategy that supports the delivery of the charity’s objectives and activities.

• Have ultimate oversight of the external audit and production of the statutory accounts, supported in delivery of this by the book-keeper.

• Produce the monthly management accounts and bespoke financial reports—including accurate forecasting, restricted fund tracking, and variance analysis—ensuring decision-makers have clear, actionable data.

• Forecasting cash flow and managing the treasury position.

• Manage the contract and performance of the bookkeeper  and outsourced payroll providers; setting strict monthly closing deadlines, enforcing data accuracy, and ensuring they deliver a clean trial balance for management accounting.

• Oversee sound financial administration, management and governance across the organisation, ensuring robust financial controls in place and operating effectively.

• Provide leadership and guidance to all things finance related, providing mentoring and support to the team, and coaching on financial awareness. 

• Accountability for monitoring that the organisation’s services are, and will, run to budget, supporting budget holders and reporting promptly on risks 

• Support the Partnerships & Impact team and Programme Managers with financial inputs to funding proposals and ensure restricted funds are used in compliance with grant conditions.

• Developing our systems strategy, including reviewing suitability of our current systems (Quickbooks for accountancy, Beacon CRM, PLEO for expenses management, Survey Monkey for data collection etc. ) and ensuring optimal use of systems, maximising automation, and using AI where appropriate.

• Constantly seeking to develop and improve the organisation’s financial systems, policies and procedures to promote dynamic, best practice and up-to-date application of tools, systems and approaches

• Supporting the organisation’s data governance by ensuring financial systems (e.g., Quickbooks, payroll, expenses) are secure, compliant, and integrated in line with data protection principles.

• Leading an effective risk management process.

• Ensuring the organisation’s compliance with charity law, in accordance with the Charity Commission in England & Wales and all financial reporting requirements.

Essential Skills & experience:

• Charity Finance Experience: Practical, senior-level experience working within a UK non-profit finance function, including a strong working knowledge of the Charities SORP and accounting for restricted vs. unrestricted funds.

• Hands-on Management Accounting: Proven experience independently producing monthly management accounts, cash flow forecasting, and variance analysis from scratch.

• End-to-End Audit Management: Experience preparing year-end audit files, reconciling balance sheet control accounts, and acts as the primary point of contact for external auditors.

• Accountancy Qualification: Full or partial qualification through an accredited body (ACCA, CIMA, ACA, CIPFA). 

• Tech Literacy & Data Reconciliation: Comfortable troubleshooting and navigating modern finance tech stacks (e.g., Xero, Pleo) and pulling financial data/reports from a CRM system (e.g., Beacon).

• Vendor & Staff Management: Experience supervising junior staff (or office managers) and actively managing the performance, timelines, and accuracy of outsourced providers (e.g., bookkeeping and payroll).

Desirable skills & experience

• Systems Implementation: Past experience project-managing a software migration or building native integrations/automations between a CRM system and accounting software.

• Broader Operations/HR Exposure: Basic familiarity with HR administration, GDPR workflows, or managing organizational risk registers in a small team environment.

• Sector Passion: A demonstrable interest in food education, children’s health, or food systems.

Benefits

You would be joining a friendly, supportive team who works hard but believe in a healthy work/life balance. We were voted one of CODE Hospitality’s happiest places to work in 2024. We seek a diverse range of perspectives, skills, experience and knowledge. Joining a small, collaborative team means you’ll be able to contribute to and draw on various projects and strategic insights.

We offer 33 days of holiday per year including bank holidays, 3 additional office closure days over the Christmas period as well as wellbeing days over the summer school holidays.  We also have a Cycle to Work scheme, hybrid working, enhanced parental leave, and free access to the CODE app for discounted restaurants & hospitality venues. We are committed to developing our team and will support you with relevant training opportunities including £250 towards elective training and development of your choice.

We also offer Bupa Dental Insurance, Income Protection Insurance, as well as access to the Aviva Smart Health Platform which offers health benefits including free rapid access online GP appointments, free counselling and wellbeing support.

Application process

In line with our commitment to ensuring a fair and unbiased recruitment process, we invite candidates to answer a series of questions related to their day-to-day job. 

We recommend that you develop your answers offline and copy them in when you’re ready to ensure you don’t lose your work if interrupted.

Your answers will go through our sifting process: all answers will be anonymised, randomised and then reviewed by a panel of reviewers. A long list of candidates will then additionally have their CVs reviewed. Shortlisted candidates will be invited to a 30 mins online interview. Successful candidates will be invited to attend a second, in-person interview at our office in Brixton, London.

Expected duration of this application process: 7 weeks

First interviews will be held 1st -4th September

Head of Finance (12-Month FTC)

A well-established Housing Charity is seeking a Head of Finance on an initial 12-month fixed-term contract. Reporting directly to the Finance Director, this role offers a unique opportunity to operate as the number two in finance, playing a key role in both strategic leadership and operational delivery while supporting a period of transformation across the finance function and wider organisation.

The organisation is recognised for its commitment to delivering high-quality services and creating positive outcomes for the communities it supports.

This role is ideally suited to an experienced finance professional looking to step into a high-impact leadership position, driving improvements across people, processes and financial insight.

Responsibilities

• Lead and develop the finance function, providing stability and strong leadership during a period of organisational change.
• Drive the Finance Business Partnering function, improving budgeting, forecasting, cash flow management and financial planning.
• Take ownership of the year-end audit, statutory accounts, month-end reporting, and strengthen financial controls and reconciliations.
• Lead finance transformation by improving processes, reducing manual ways of working and preparing the function for a future finance systems implementation.
• Produce high-quality management reporting and dashboards to support decision-making across the organisation.

Requirements

• Fully qualified accountant with experience in social housing, charity, or care and support.
• Proven leadership experience, with the ability to manage, motivate and develop finance teams.
• Experience operating at both a strategic and operational level, with a strong focus on business partnering.
• Strong technical accounting knowledge and advanced Excel skills.
• Excellent analytical, systems and communication skills.

This is an excellent opportunity to make a lasting impact within the finance function while supporting a wider organisational transformation. There is a genuine opportunity for the role to become permanent, making it an ideal position for someone seeking both an immediate challenge and long-term stability.

The organisation is looking to appoint quickly, so candidates available at short notice / immediately available are encouraged to apply.

About Manx National Heritage

Manx National Heritage (MNH) is the Isle of Man’s national heritage charity and the custodian of some of the Island’s most significant cultural, historic and natural assets. The organisation cares for nationally important heritage sites, extensive museum collections, archives and landscapes, preserving and promoting the Isle of Man’s unique heritage for current and future generations. Through conservation, education, public engagement and cultural services, MNH plays a vital role in protecting the Island’s heritage while contributing to its prosperity, identity and quality of life.

About the Role

As Head of Finance, Governance & Corporate Services, you will be a key member of the senior leadership team, providing strategic financial leadership to support the long-term sustainability of the organisation. Reporting to the Chief Executive, you will oversee all aspects of financial management, governance and corporate services, ensuring robust financial controls, effective decision-making and compliance with charity and regulatory requirements.

This is an excellent opportunity for an experienced finance leader to combine strategic thinking with operational delivery, helping to safeguard the future of a respected heritage charity while supporting its charitable, educational and cultural objectives.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and manage the organisation’s finance function, ensuring the delivery of high-quality financial services.
• Develop and implement financial strategies that support organisational sustainability and growth.
• Oversee budgeting, forecasting, financial planning and end-to-end cashflow management.
• Produce accurate and timely financial reports, management accounts and statutory returns.
• Ensure robust financial controls, risk management processes and regulatory compliance are maintained.
• Provide strategic financial advice and insight to the Chief Executive, Board and senior leadership team.
• Support organisational decision-making through effective financial analysis and performance monitoring.
• Lead on governance matters, ensuring compliance with charity, legal and regulatory obligations.
• Oversee corporate services functions and contribute to the effective management of organisational resources.
• Manage, develop and support finance managers and their teams, fostering a high-performing finance function.
• Drive continuous improvement in financial systems, processes and reporting, including the effective use of financial management software.
• Contribute to the development and delivery of organisational strategy and business objectives.
• Promote value for money, operational efficiency and long-term financial resilience across the organisation.
• Build and maintain effective relationships with internal and external stakeholders, auditors and funding bodies.

Terrence Higgins Trust is looking for an experienced Head of Finance to lead our finance function and shape our financial strategy. This is a senior leadership role with organisational influence: you will oversee financial planning, reporting, compliance, audit, treasury and controls, while ensuring that high-quality financial insight supports confident decision-making across our Executive, Board and wider teams. 

We are seeking a qualified accountant who can combine technical expertise with clear communication, collaborative leadership and a commitment to our values. If you are motivated by strengthening financial sustainability, developing high-performing teams and using finance to support life-changing services across the UK, we would be delighted to hear from you. 

We welcome applications from candidates based anywhere in the UK and are committed to flexible ways of working. While the role can be undertaken from any UK location, we would particularly welcome applications from candidates who are able to work on a hybrid basis from our London office, enabling regular collaboration with colleagues across the finance team and wider organisation. 

Head of Finance

Head Office, Southampton, Hampshire

37 Hours per week, Full time

(Flexible working will be considered)

Permanent

Salary: £50,000 - £60,000 per annum (depending on experience)

About Us

This is an exciting opportunity to join a dynamic Charity and Housing Association.  The Society of St James (SSJ) has been working in Hampshire for over 50 years, delivering high impact, person-centred, accommodation services to adults and young people experiencing homelessness, problematic substance use and mental health problems. We believe that every person is of worth and we are prepared to take risks to house and support the most at risk and socially excluded members of society.

The Impact You'll Make

As our Head of Finance, you will you will drive the strength, integrity, and efficiency of our financial operations. Reporting directly to the CFO, you will hold day-to-day responsibility for all finance matters across the organisation. You won't just oversee numbers from afar—you will directly enable life-changing frontline services by ensuring financial integrity, robust budgeting, and clear risk management.

While this is a key leadership post involving board reporting and team management, our structure means you will also enjoy a hands-on approach. You will lead a dedicated team, act as a trusted business partner to senior operational managers, and manage your own suite of core finance projects to build a modern, progressive finance function.

Who We're Looking For

We are seeking a collaborative, forward-thinking finance professional who brings both technical excellence and strong leadership skills. You should possess significant accounting experience, formal accounting training, and a strong background in managing individuals or teams.

Because SSJ operates in a fast-changing environment, we need an approachable leader who can seamlessly translate complex, technical financial information into clear insights for non-financial colleagues. You will thrive here if you are passionate about process improvement, love developing people, and care deeply about supporting staff who are making a real difference to vulnerable people. A genuine alignment with our core values—Respect, Response, and Recognition—as well as a commitment to equity, diversity, and safeguarding, is essential.

Essential Qualities and Skills

Qualifications & Legal

• Professional Qualifications: Working towards a recognised chartered accountant status and/or equivalent relevant experience. 
• Right to Work: Legal rights to live and work in the UK.

Technical Experience & Knowledge

• Financial Management: Proven experience leading monthly management accounts processes, cash flow planning and monitoring, budgeting, and forecasting in a medium-to-large organisation. 
• Payroll & Benefits: Experience running monthly payroll and managing benefits. 
• Audit & Regulations: Experience preparing for and managing external accounting audits, along with a strong understanding of the UK financial regulatory framework. 
• Systems & Tools: Adaptability to work with accounting software such as Sage 200, alongside proficiency in Microsoft Office 365.

Leadership & Soft Skills

• People Leadership: Proven leadership and management experience, with a commitment to supporting and developing your team.
• Communication: Honest, articulate, confident, and approachable style with the ability to translate technical financial concepts for non-financial colleagues. 
• Process Improvement: Passion for developing systems, processes, and modern finance solutions. 
• Values Alignment: Demonstrable commitment to Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI), safeguarding principles, and SSJ's overall mission.

Desirable Skills

• Full Qualification: Fully qualified chartered accountant from a recognised body (e.g., ACCA, CIMA, ICAEW, CIPFA). 
• Sector Expertise: Experience within the Charity Sector, alongside exposure to Housing and/or Charity SORP. 
• Specialist Technical Exposure: Knowledge or experience in general project accounting, VAT, Corporation Tax, or rent accounting. 
• Advanced Systems Skills: Direct experience using Sage 200 software and advanced skills in Microsoft Excel. 
• Senior Leadership: Experience managing or leading teams within a senior-level role. 
• Licensing: Full UK driver's licence for work purposes.

What we can offer you

We value and recognise our staff, offering some generous benefits, as well as the satisfaction of helping people at risk:

• A competitive annual leave entitlement of 25 days rising to 30 days, plus public holidays
• Flexible working options
• Buying additional annual leave
• Comprehensive induction and training
• Counselling, financial, personal support and health and wellbeing services via our Employee Assistance Programme
• Company cycle to work scheme
• Discounted laptops and computers with Jamie’s Computers
• Electric Car Scheme
• Blue Light Card 

To apply please visit:

The application process will include some supplementary questions which are an opportunity for you to illustrate how you meet the requirements for the role and why you want to work for SSJ.

We would welcome any requests for an informal chat or informal visit during the recruitment process. Please message:  

Closing date: Week commencing 10th August 2026 

Interviews are provisionally scheduled for the week commencing: 17th August 2026

SSJ are an equal opportunity employer and we encourage applicants from all backgrounds and walks of life.

At SSJ, we recognise the benefits of a supported workplace. SSJ is affiliated with Unite the Union. To learn more about their membership benefits or to sign up, you can visit their official website.

Due to the high number of expected applicants, we do reserve the right to close this vacancy earlier.

Should you not hear from us within 21 days of the closing date, please assume you have been unsuccessful on this occasion. 

Position: Global Head of Finance

Location: London or Bath, with a minimum of 3 days per week in the office

Contract type: Permanent

Salary range: £56,000 to £62,000 per year, dependent upon experience

Applications: Please apply via the application form linked in this job posting by 10 August. 

About EJF

The Environmental Justice Foundation (EJF) is a global non-profit organisation working to protect the natural world and our fundamental human right to a secure environment. We work at the frontlines of environmental injustice, alongside communities most affected by climate breakdown, biodiversity loss, and exploitation - transforming evidence into action, and injustice into lasting change.

Through field investigations, rigorous research, and strategic international advocacy, we expose environmental crime, challenge impunity, and catalyse systemic reform. Our work delivers real-world impact, shaping policy, strengthening governance, protecting vital ecosystems, and defending those who risk their lives to safeguard them.

Our campaigns span four interconnected areas: oceans, climate, forests and wetlands, and the training, protection, and empowerment of environmental defenders and investigative journalists. From illegal fishing and plastic pollution to deforestation, land grabs, and climate breakdown, we confront some of the most complex and urgent crises of our time - always with a focus on accountability, equity, and durable solutions.

EJF has a diverse team of campaigners, filmmakers and community mobilisers working across four continents, united by a shared ambition: to protect people by protecting the planet. We are bold, evidence-led, and impact-driven. We speak truth to power - and we build pathways to a fairer, more resilient future. Join Us.

About the role:

This is a rare opportunity for an experienced, precise and conscientious qualified accountant to join a dynamic, high-impact team working to protect the global environment and defend human rights. Reporting to the Chief Operating Officer, you'll lead the international finance team and provide financial insight and analysis to the CEO and Senior Management Team to support a fast-growing, ambitious charity.

This role is right for you if you're an energetic, meticulously organised finance professional with a strong commitment to protecting the environment and the people who depend on it. You'll work globally to ensure EJF's financial administration runs efficiently in every country where we operate, securing value for money so that resources are focused on delivering impact.

Key responsibilities:

• Maintaining and improving EJF's global financial policies, systems, controls and processes, ensuring they are applied consistently in every country where EJF operates. 

• Managing six finance staff working in the UK and overseas.

• Ensuring the production of accurate, accessible and insightful monthly and annual global financial reporting for internal and external audiences.

• Providing strategic financial forecasts, insights and advice to the CEO, Senior Management Team and Trustees to inform planning and decision-making.

• Preparing budgets for funding proposals and ensuring accurate and timely financial projections of spend against grants and reporting to funders.

• Leading the annual organisational budget process, including multi-year financial plans.

• Mentoring team leads on financial budgeting, tracking and expenditure oversight.

• Monitoring and ensuring value for money in expenditure, identifying and removing inefficiencies and waste. 

• Developing and executing EJF's treasury strategy, including managing currency risk and reserves.

• Overseeing payroll and pensions, working with external providers where relevant. 

• Completing regulatory returns as required by the Charity Commission and statutory bodies in the countries of operation.

• Leading the annual external audit and overseeing the preparation of statutory accounts.

• Managing financial risk, including safeguarding EJF against fraud, and maintaining relationships with auditors, banks and other professional advisers.

Essential skills and experience 

• Demonstrable commitment to EJF’s vision, mission and values and a determination to change the world for the better.

• Qualified accountant with a superb eye for detail. 

• Minimum of six years' work experience, preferably in the international charity sector, including responsibility for managing a finance team.

• Demonstrable experience designing and implementing financial controls and securing good value for money through procurement and commissioning.

• Strong IT skills, and experience managing IT systems and/or databases.

• Excellent communication skills, in writing and in person.

• Proactive and solution-oriented, highly organised and self-motivated.

• Enthusiastic, outgoing and friendly, able to work in a growing, diverse, international team with minimal supervision.

• Experience of working with the UK Charity SORP and the production of the annual report and accounts.

• Experience with multi-currency income & expenditure and management of the processes around sub-grants to overseas partners.

• Ability to travel to EJF's countries of operation to assess the development and implementation of financial systems and to manage finance staff.

Desirable skills and experience

• Employment or volunteer experience in the not-for-profit sector.

• Experience using Iplicit.

• A track record of producing budgets and financial reports for successful international projects in the Global South funded by bilateral donors.

We strongly encourage candidates from underrepresented backgrounds in the environmental and human rights sectors to apply. If you believe you would be a great fit but don’t meet every requirement, we would still love to hear from you.

What we offer

We offer a rewarding package designed to support your well-being, flexibility, and professional growth:

• 22 days’ annual leave (exclusive of bank holidays), increasing with each year of service, plus additional paid leave between Christmas and New Year.

• Private healthcare package.

• Generous pension scheme, with employer contributions increasing over time.

• Flexible working hours and hybrid working (typically 3 days in the office / 2 from home).

• Cycle-to-work scheme.

• A dynamic, supportive, and inclusive working environment, with genuine opportunities for professional development and career progression.

• The chance to contribute to an organisation delivering real-world impact for people and planet.

Application process

To apply, please complete the application form linked in this job posting. This includes:

1. A personal statement outlining your suitability for the role (max 2 pages)

2. Your CV (max 2 pages)

The deadline for applications is 18:00 BST on 10 August, 2026.

Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.

Candidates must have the legal right to work in the UK.

EJF is an equal opportunity employer, committed to diversity within the workplace.