Head of finance jobs in Central london, greater london

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.

UKCISA is looking for its Head of Finance and Risk as we continue on our exciting journey to long term financial sustainability. As a member of our Senior Leadership Team you will work with a financially astute CEO who together with our team and Trustees is leading the development of our next strategy. That strategy will position us to succeed as a trading entity, earning our revenue from the 400 member organisations from Higher and Further Education, schools and student unions. These organisations value our advocacy to government and our specialist advice, training, conferences and celebrations of international students and their role in supporting them.

As the UK’s national advisory body for international students and the professionals who work with them, our purpose is clear: to ensure that every international student has the best possible experience while studying in the UK. This mission is more important than ever. International students currently studying across the UK make an invaluable contribution to our campuses, communities, and society. At the same time, the environment in which they live, and study has become increasingly complex, shaped by shifting government policy, economic pressures, and evolving student expectations.

As our Head of Finance and Risk key areas of responsibility are:

• Playing a leadership and business partner role with colleagues and Trustees

• Working closely with the CEO to deliver on our financial strategy

• Delivering the operational financial activities for UKCISA and leading a small finance team to achieve successful audit outcomes

• Leading on areas of governance including finance, risk, audit, acting as the secretariat for the Finance, Audit and Risk Committee

• Managing the organisation’s risk management processes and register

To be successful in this role you need:

• A recognised accounting qualification (min Level 4 Diploma in Professional Accounting AAT or equivalent) or chartered accountant status

• 3- 5 years finance experience in the charity sector producing year end/statutory accounts in accordance with the Charities SORP

• Experience in reporting to and advising Boards and/or committees

• Experience in developing finance strategies to drive financial sustainability

• To be interested in and developing a commitment to UKCISA’s vision and mission

• To be able to demonstrate excellent interpersonal skills and ability to work as a business partner and advisor with team members and trustees

• To be able to demonstrate excellent leadership skills to achieve strategic and operational goals

• To be able to demonstrate excellent analytical and audit skills to lead on risk and business continuity planning

• To be able to demonstrate high levels of personal and professional integrity

If you don’t have all the experience we are seeking but believe you can still excel in the job, do please consider applying once you have read the full information pack.

What’s in it for you:

• Working for a passionate team who have an exceptional reputation for advocacy, advice and guidance to the international student sector

• Having access to benefits such as professional development funds and leave, an EAP program, USS pension and hybrid flexible working with only a requirement to attend monthly in person all day staff meetings in central London

• An opportunity to use your finance and risk expertise to support UKCISA’s vision that every international student who comes to the UK has a positive experience and is able to tell friends and families that the UK is a welcoming place to study, and live.

To apply for this role download our full information pack on our website, including job description and essential criteria  Join our team at UKCISA  Please note: CVs alone will not be accepted.  You must respond to our three questions in order to be considered.

Applications will close on Monday 14 September 9 am

In-person interviews will take place at our office in central London on 24 September 2026

Location: Hybrid working - Part London office-based (E14) and part home working. The post holder will work a minimum of one day a week in the office. 

Salary: £58,300 per annum 

Hours:35 hours per week 

Interview date: as we are receiving applications and will be over video on Teams in the first instance

This is a permanent role. 

Who we are looking for 

Breakthrough T1D is the UK’s leading type 1 diabetes charity, dedicated to funding research, advocating for change, and supporting the T1D community. We are looking for an experienced and dynamic Head of Finance to help us ensure the finance function is fit for purpose so that we can deliver our ambitious 10-year strategy.

Reporting to the Director of Finance & IT, this is a hands-on leadership role with responsibility for the day–to–day management of the finance function, responsible for monthly financial reporting including quarterly reforecasts and co ordinating the annual budget as well as partnering with senior stakeholders across the organisation.You will also lead on the annual accounts and external audit. 

Managing a team of 3 (2.2 FTE), you will ensure the organisation continues to deliver robust financial control, insightful charity reporting and effective support to operational teams.  

Experience required 

You’ll be/have: 

• CCAB qualified financial professional (or finalist) 
• Experience working for a charity in a senior finance role with fundraised income of £1m or more 
• Strong business partnering skills and experience working closely with senior operational leaders. 
• Strong financial reporting, controls and systems confidence 
• Ability to work both strategically and hands–on 
• Familiar with the charity SORP 
• Strong people management and leadership skills with the ability to develop and motivate teams 
• Excellent accounting, analytical, and communication skills allied with a pragmatic and solution focused approach. 

About Breakthrough T1D 

Breakthrough T1D is the world’s leading charitable research funder into type 1 diabetes, improving lives until we find the cure. We are dedicated to our 400,000 strong type 1 community in the UK and work closely with our international affiliates across the world, including the US, Canada and Australia. 

You will find a vibrant atmosphere and spirited team at Breakthrough T1D, always striving to make a difference to people living with type 1. 

Employee benefits 

As an employer we offer: 

• Hybrid working arrangements 
• Flexible working and will consider compressed hours 
• Generous annual leave entitlement – 25 days per year plus bank holidays for full-time staff with leave increasing after three and five years’ service 
• Health cash plan that allows you to claim for some treatments such as dental, optical and physiotherapy treatment 
• Season ticket and cycle loan 
• Pension scheme 
• Family-friendly policies – maternity, paternity, adoption and shared parental leave at enhanced rates 
• Personalised training to suit your career aspirations and professional development 

Breakthrough T1D is an equal opportunity employer, we welcome applications from all individuals regardless of race, gender, disability, religious belief, sexual orientation or age. 

Job Title:  Head of Finance

Reports to:                        Chief Executive

Direct Reports:                 Finance and Business Administrator

Location: Remote – With some travel to attend meetings and events (mainly  in London but also other project areas elsewhere in the UK)

Salary: £46,542 Pro Rata

Hours: 3-4 Days per week

 About Alexandra Rose Charity 

We should all be able to eat healthy food. But right now, healthy options cost more than twice as much as junk food. It’s getting harder and harder for people to put good food on the table. In fact, the poorest fifth of UK households would need to spend 50% of their disposable income to eat the UK Government’s recommended healthy diet. Access to a choice of high quality, culturally appropriate fruit & veg is an essential building block for our mental and physical health. We need to put this right. 

We’re on a mission to give people access to their choice of fresh fruit & veg, in the heart of their community. At Alexandra Rose, we are proud to deliver a mix of practical, place-based projects and national advocacy to shape a fairer future, where everyone can afford and enjoy fresh fruit & veg with dignity. 

If this aligns with how you see the world, and you want to use your skills and experience to help us build towards it, you’ll feel at home here. 

About the role  

We are looking for an experienced Head of Finance to help deliver our mission and support the growth and consolidation of the charity. As a member of our Senior Management Team, you will play a key role in implementing our new strategy as well as managing risk.

You will take overall responsibility for the organisation’s financial management, working closely with the Chief Executive and the Treasurer.

You will provide effective finance partner support to other functions within the charity to support its fundraising, operations and development.

You will also be responsible for the line management of the Finance & Business Administrator, working with the Chief Executive to both oversee and support the governance and compliance services function of the charity.

We want our organisation to reflect the diversity of the communities we work in, and we welcome applications from people from all backgrounds.

Interview Process: The selection process may include two interviews:

This is an exciting opportunity to join Battersea as Head of Finance on a part-time, fixed-term basis, providing cover during a period of sabbatical leave. The role will provide senior financial leadership throughout this period, ensuring continuity, stability and high-quality financial support across the Charity.

This role will lead a high-performing finance and procurement team, ensuring Battersea has robust financial management and an effective control environment that safeguards its finances. They will oversee statutory financial responsibilities, including the production and external audit of statutory accounts and submissions to the Charity Commission, Companies House and HMRC.

This role will ensure the Charity has timely, accurate and meaningful financial information to support sound decision-making, while providing a customer-focused finance service across the organisation. This will include high-quality financial reporting, training, support and advice to key stakeholders.

As a senior leader and member of the Senior Leadership Team, the postholder will contribute to Battersea’s strategic direction and culture, role-modelling its values and helping the Charity achieve its objectives.

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 memberships 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.

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: 2nd September 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

For more information about the role, please download our Recruitment pack.

To apply for the role, please click the "Apply" button below.

We are currently seeking a Head of Financial Controls & Audit to join our developing and newly repositioned Finance team on a permanent basis.

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

The role:
The Head of Financial Controls is a new role and is responsible for the accounting, controls and audit functions at Shakespeare’s Globe. Reporting directly to the CFO, you will be a key player in the finance leadership team. You will be creating systems and processes to ensure there is a continuous development approach to our financial controls.

You will be running a robust financial control environment, lead a blended team of finance professionals, oversee the external and internal audit processes, and act as the technical lead on a major finance software transformation project (making Business Central a SaaS).

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

 Benefits:

• Discount in the Globe shop and onsite restaurants/cafes
• Staff discounts via My Globe perks and better Bankside Buzzcard
• Free entry to selected shows, events and activities
• Access to our free employee assistance programme and 24/7 virtual GP service
• Enhanced maternity, paternity, adoption, and shared parental leave and pay
• Life assurance scheme
• Rental deposit scheme and season ticket loans
• Flu vaccination scheme
• Cycle to work scheme
• Enhanced employer pension contributions after 12 months service.

To apply:

For more information, please download the job description from our main jobs page linked below.
To apply, please complete the online application form on our main jobs page by Midday, 10 September 2026.

First round interviews will take place week commencing 5 October 2026.

If you have any queries on the application process or online form, please email our Recruitment Team - contact email on our main jobs page linked below.

We are currently seeking a Head of Finance Business Partnering to join our developing and newly repositioned Finance team on a permanent basis.

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

The role:
This role is specifically responsible for delivery of appropriate budget reporting that have been the result of future-focussed, strategic and inclusive business partnering relationships across Shakespeare’s Globe between budget holders and the Finance Business Partner team.

This team needs to be led by someone who understands where the budget holders are, understand their fears and concerns, understand the reasons behind their previous decisions, and hold them to account whilst inspiring them to work differently to achieve the financial budgeting. This role will be working specifically within and joining up the interdependencies of how the work impacts other work, other teams and other expenditure. You will need to be able to identify where budget decisions have been made driven by emotions rather than by the business and strategy. The ability to get buy-in is important whilst ensuring objectivity is essential. We do not need an enabler, we need a gentle and collaborative disruptor.

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

Benefits:

• Discount in the Globe shop and onsite restaurants/cafes
• Staff discounts via My Globe perks and better Bankside Buzzcard
• Free entry to selected shows, events and activities
• Access to our free employee assistance programme and 24/7 virtual GP service
• Enhanced maternity, paternity, adoption, and shared parental leave and pay
• Life assurance scheme
• Rental deposit scheme and season ticket loans
• Flu vaccination scheme
• Cycle to work scheme
• Enhanced employer pension contributions after 12 months service.

To apply:

For more information, please download the job description from this page. To apply, please complete the online application form on our website by 12:00pm (midday) on 10 September 2026.

First round interviews will take place week commencing 5 October 2026.

Help us achieve our vision that fewer people die by suicide.

We're looking for an experienced and commercially minded finance leader to join Samaritans as our Head of Financial Planning & Analysis. This is a unique opportunity to play a key role in supporting strategic decision-making across the organisation, leading financial planning, forecasting and reporting, while helping ensure we can continue delivering our life-saving work.

Reporting to the Executive Director of Corporate Services and working closely with senior leaders across the charity, you'll provide expert financial insight, lead a high-performing team, and drive innovation and continuous improvement across our finance function.

Contract terms:

• £75,000 (FTE) per annum, plus benefits
• Fixed Term Contract (12 months)
• 35 hours per week (full time)
• We are passionate about flexible working, talk to us about your preferences
• Hybrid, linked to our Ewell (Surrey) office
• We value meeting in person and working collaboratively. Finance team members are encouraged work from the office one day per week.
• 28 days annual leave, plus bank holidays (pro-rata)

What you'll be doing:

As Head of Financial Planning & Analysis, you'll lead our FP&A team and oversee the organisation's financial planning cycle, management reporting, forecasting and financial modelling activities. You'll be a trusted adviser to senior stakeholders, providing commercial insight and helping leaders make informed decisions that support our strategic objectives.

You'll also be a member of the Senior Leadership Group, contributing to organisational planning and helping shape the future direction of the finance function. Alongside your strategic responsibilities, you'll oversee both the Management Accounts and Accounts Payable & Receivable functions, ensuring robust financial reporting, controls and processes are in place.

Key responsibilities

• Leading the organisation's budgeting, forecasting and financial planning processes.
• Providing strategic financial insight and partnering with senior leaders to support decision-making.
• Delivering financial modelling, scenario analysis and business case support for key projects and initiatives.
• Overseeing management reporting and ensuring accurate, timely financial information across the organisation.
• Leading and developing a high-performing finance team, fostering collaboration and continuous improvement.
• Driving financial capability, commercial awareness and strong financial management across the business.
• Supporting Board, Finance Committee and senior leadership reporting through clear, insightful analysis.
• Ensuring robust financial controls, processes and systems that support organisational effectiveness.

What you’ll bring:

Essential

• A professional accounting qualification (ACA, ACCA, CIMA, CIPFA or equivalent) with significant post-qualification experience.
• Extensive experience across financial planning and analysis, including budgeting, forecasting, management reporting and financial modelling.
• Proven experience leading organisation-wide budget-setting and financial planning processes.
• Strong leadership skills with experience developing and motivating high-performing teams.
• The ability to engage, influence and challenge senior stakeholders through clear, evidence-based financial insight.
• Excellent analytical and commercial awareness, with confidence interpreting complex financial data and translating it into meaningful recommendations.
• Advanced Excel skills and experience using financial planning and reporting systems.
• Outstanding communication and relationship-building skills, with the ability to work effectively across a diverse range of stakeholders.
• Strong organisational skills and the ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.

Desirable

• Experience within the charity or not-for-profit sector
• Knowledge of VAT, Corporation Tax, procurement or project management

For full details, please see the Job Description and Person Specification

Why Samaritans?

At Samaritans, you’ll join a values-led organisation with a powerful mission. You’ll be part of a collaborative and supportive team where your voice matters, your expertise makes a difference, and your work helps save lives.

We offer flexible hybrid working, great benefits, and the chance to make a tangible difference in suicide prevention across the UK and Ireland. To find out more about Samaritans, please read our recruitment brochure.

We are committed to building a diverse and inclusive organisation that reflects the people we support and who support us. We welcome applications from people of all backgrounds and walks of life. We are committed to creating an inclusive culture where everyone feels seen, heard and supported, at all levels of the organisation.

Apply now

If this sounds like the opportunity for you, we’d love for you to apply. You will be asked to answer some short application questions and to upload your CV and cover letter addressing key points in the job description. 

If you require adjustments at any stage of the recruitment process, please let us know.

Applications close: midnight on 1st September 2026

1st stage interviews (online): w/c 14th September

2nd stage interviews (in person): tbc

At Samaritans, human connection is at the heart of everything we do. 

We do not use AI at any stage during the selection process. Your application will always be carefully reviewed by the recruiting manager or a member of the Talent Attraction Team. 

We kindly ask that you avoid using AI tools to generate your application or interview answers. We want to hear your own ideas, insights, and writing style so your unique strengths can shine through. We recognise that some candidates may use assistive technology or tools to help with accessibility, structure or grammar.   

Head of Finance and Operations 

Salary: £45,000–£50,000 per annum, plus performance-related bonus of up to £5,000 per annum
Location: South London
Contract: Permanent, full-time
Hybrid working: Up to one day per week from home, with additional flexibility possible

We are working with an established arts and education charity to recruit a new Head of Finance and Operations.

This is a fantastic opportunity to join a small, ambitious organisation delivering a range of artistic, educational and community programmes. The charity receives income from a diverse mix of public funding, trusts and foundations, individual giving, sponsorship and commercial activity.

Sitting within the Leadership Team and working closely with the Director, this is a genuinely broad role encompassing finance, operations, governance, HR and organisational management.

A key part of the role will be leading the charity’s financial management and planning. You’ll manage the annual budget, produce quarterly management accounts and cash-flow forecasts, oversee VAT returns and work closely with external accountants and auditors on the year-end accounts and audit. You’ll also work with budget holders, senior colleagues, trustees and the Finance, Audit & Risk Committee to ensure strong financial management across the organisation.

We are particularly interested in candidates who have previous experience working within a small charity or similarly sized not-for-profit organisation. This isn’t a role where finance sits in isolation – you’ll need to be comfortable getting into the detail, working across different areas of the organisation and balancing strategic responsibilities with the practical realities of working in a smaller charity.

Strong charity finance experience will therefore be important. You’ll need to understand the complexities of restricted and unrestricted funding, be confident managing and reporting against different funding streams and have a good working knowledge of Charity SORP.

Experience of dealing with funders and their different reporting and monitoring requirements will also be particularly useful.

Alongside finance, you’ll oversee a varied operational remit including building and office management, HR processes, organisational policies and governance. You’ll also support the Board and committees, take responsibility for company secretarial duties and maintain relationships with key funders and stakeholders.

This role would suit someone who enjoys the variety that comes with working in a small charity – practical, organised and collaborative, with the confidence to operate at leadership and trustee level while still being happy to roll their sleeves up when required.

You don’t necessarily need to tick every box. We’re keen to hear from candidates with strong charity finance experience who can demonstrate the ability to manage a broad and varied remit.

The role sits on the Senior Leadership Team, reporting to the Charity Director. You will manage a General Manager and Freelance Bookkeeper.

Fully-qualified and part-qualified ACCA, CIMA or ACA candidates will be considered.

Please send your CV for further consideration.

Closing date: 10am, Monday 21 September 2026.

An organisation providing specialist support to the not-for-profit sector is seeking an experienced Head of Finance to join its team.

The Head of Finance will take responsibility for a broad range of financial management activities, working closely with senior stakeholders to provide high-quality financial information, analysis and advice. The role combines strategic financial planning with oversight of core financial reporting and control processes.

Key responsibilities include:
• Lead budgeting and forecasting processes across a complex, multi-entity international environment
• Develop financial models and scenario analysis to support organisational planning
• Oversee monthly management reporting, including analysis of performance against budget
• Manage year-end financial processes and coordinate with external auditors
• Provide financial insight and advice to senior stakeholders to support effective decision-making
• Oversee financial management and reporting requirements associated with externally funded activities
• Support the continued development of financial processes, controls and reporting

About You
• Fully qualified accountant (CCAB or equivalent)
• Experience within the charity, not-for-profit or a similarly complex environment would be advantageous
• Strong budgeting, forecasting, and financial modelling experience
• Experience overseeing management accounts and year-end processes

The role is mostly remote with occasional travel required for on-site meetings.
Given the international nature of the role, some flexibility around working hours may occasionally be required

Head of Finance

Salary£80,000.00 per annum

LocationLondon/Hybrid (with 1 to 2 days a week in the office)

Weekly Hours35

The Vacancy

Job Title: Head of Finance

Location: London/Hybrid (with 1 to 2 days a week in the office)

Salary: £80,000.00 per annum

Weekly Hours: 35

Reference: YMC1228366

About Us

Founded in 1844, YMCA is a global movement and the world's largest youth-focused charity.  In England and Wales, YMCAs are based in over 700 communities across 168 local authorities supporting young people and communities to reach their potential. The turnover of YMCA in 2025-26 was £386m. YMCA England & Wales is a £23 million organisation of more than 400 colleagues, supporting a Federation of 80 local YMCAs to deliver vital services which positively impact young lives across the country. As we grow our income and impact, we are seeking an established and inspirational Head of Finance to take on one of the most pivotal roles in our organisation.

The Opportunity

This is a senior leadership appointment, reporting to the Director of Resources and leading a Finance team of around nine, including the payroll function. You will act as our lead on all matters of finance, liaising with our Federation members where necessary, providing expert support to our Income Generation Directorate (Fundraising and Retail) and other internal Directorates, embedding financial insight into revenue-generation strategy and working in close collaborative partnership with senior colleagues both within those teams but also across the Federation. Beyond this, you will oversee statutory reporting, investments, VAT and taxation compliance, and provide expert counsel to our Board of Trustees and Finance and Audit Committee.

Why You

Perhaps you have already established an excellent track record within a charity with significant fundraising and retail operations and are ready for the scale and influence this role commands. Or perhaps this is your first move into a charity; you are a seasoned accountant whose clients have included charitable organisations, and you now plan to apply that expertise where it matters most. Either way, this is a genuine opportunity to shape the financial future of a movement with over 180 years of heritage as we continue to embed strong financial practices whilst delivering our strategic ambition

What We're Looking For

You will be a fully qualified accountant (ICAEW, ACCA, CIMA or CIPFA) with senior management experience leading finance in an organisation of comparable scale, ideally with charity reporting and SORP knowledge. Strong business partnering skills, gravitas with trustees and committees, and genuine collaborative leadership are essential to succeed in this crucial role.

Our recruitment process is anonymised and candidates' names are hidden. We welcome and encourage job applications from people of all backgrounds. Safer recruitment is important to us and the successful applicant will be asked to provide two references. They will also be required to complete a safeguarding self-declaration, safeguarding training and undertake a DBS check

Job role: Head of Finance
Salary: circa £60,000 per annum
Location: Central London / Hybrid (two days per weekonsite)
Contract: Permanent
Hours: 35 hours per week

Lead a finance function ready for its next chapter

This is an exciting opportunity for an experienced finance leader to join a well-established charity at a pivotal stage in its development. Reporting to the Finance Director and sitting on the Senior Leadership Group, you will lead the finance function, providing the financial leadership, insight and accountability needed to support organisational performance and future growth. The organisation has identified the need for stronger financial leadership, improved communication, more consistent reporting and greater accountability across finance, creating an opportunity for someone to make a lasting impact.


As the Head of Finance, you will:

• Lead the day-to-day finance function, ensuring efficient and effective financial operations.
• Manage month-end processes and produce accurate, insightful management accounts.
• Partner with budget holders and senior stakeholders to support informed decision-making.
• Monitor cash flow, financial performance and organisational resources.
• Oversee grant reporting and ensure compliance with funder requirements.
• Support budgeting, financial planning, governance and audit activities.
• Lead, support and develop the Finance Manager and wider finance team.
• Improve communication, accountability and service delivery across the finance function.

To succeed in this role, you will bring:

• Significant experience of line management working within charity finance.
• Professional accountancy qualification e.g. CIMA or ACCA
• Experience producing management accounts and leading month-end close processes.
• Experience of grant management and other statutory funding agreements
• Strong financial management and finance operations expertise.
• Experience partnering with stakeholders across an organisation.
• Excellent communication skills and the ability to explain financial information clearly to non-financial colleagues.

This role offers the opportunity to:

• Lead and improve a broad and varied finance function.
• Influence organisational performance and future direction.
• Manage and develop an established finance team.
• Join a charity with a positive, values-led culture.

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

About Hope for the Young

Hope for the Young removes the obstacles to young refugees and sanctuary-seekers’ education and wellbeing through mentoring, advocacy, and financial support.

The Mentoring Programme supports young refugees and sanctuary-seekers aged 16-25 by matching them with trained volunteer mentors who provide weekly one-to-one support tailored to the young people's needs. Mentors help with teaching English, enrolment advice, study skills, confidence and trust building, and provide emotional and practical support that helps young people access new services, adapt and settle into their communities.

The Grants and Advocacy Programme supports young people who, due to their immigration status, have no access to student finance or other financial support to enable them to go to college or university. We provide small grants to pay for tuition fees, living allowances and travel expenses, alongside tailored advocacy support to enable young refugees and sanctuary-seekers to access education in the UK.

About this role

Hope for the Young is looking for an experienced and proactive Head of Finance and Operations to lead the smooth running of our finance, systems, HR and office functions. This is a hands-on role at the heart of a small, ambitious charity, giving you the opportunity to shape how we operate as we grow our support for young refugees and sanctuary-seekers across London.

You will oversee financial management and reporting, ensuring accurate records, robust controls and clear budgeting and forecasting to support the charity's long-term sustainability. You will also lead on our Salesforce system and wider data practices, manage day-to-day office and operational matters, and take responsibility for HR across the organisation. You will also line-manage our Finance and Administration Officer.

This is a varied and rewarding role for someone who enjoys working across multiple areas of responsibility and thrives in a small team environment. Working closely with the CEO and Head of Programmes, you will play a central role in ensuring Hope for the Young has the systems, processes and people in place to deliver our mission effectively, efficiently and sustainably, helping us support more young people seeking safety to build safe, hopeful futures.

We offer a flexible and hybrid working environment, however you will be expected to come to our office in Brixton for a minimum of 1 day per week (on a Wednesday, which is our office team day).

Key responsibilities

Financial Management & Reporting

· Lead and oversee the charity's financial management, ensuring robust controls, effective processes and compliance with financial policies and procedures.

· Lead budgeting, forecasting, cash flow management and financial planning in collaboration with the CEO and Head of Programmes to support organisational sustainability.

· Oversee the delivery of day-to-day finance operations, including bookkeeping, payroll, accounts payable and receivable, and financial record-keeping, delivered by the Finance and Administration Officer, providing guidance, training, and support as necessary.

· Monitor income, expenditure, reserves and restricted and unrestricted funds, ensuring accurate financial reporting and effective resource management.

· Prepare and present monthly management accounts, financial reports and analysis to support decision-making by the CEO and Board.

· Maintain and strengthen financial controls, delegated authority arrangements and audit processes to ensure strong financial governance.

Leadership, Governance and Organisational Management

· Lead organisational operational planning and risk management, ensuring systems, processes and resources align with and support delivery of the strategic plan

· Sit as a member of the Senior Leadership Team (SLT), contributing to organisational strategy, cross-team planning and key decision-making alongside the CEO and Head of Programmes.

· Maintain the organisational risk register, working with the CEO and Board to identify and mitigate strategic and operational risks.

· Own the organisation’s policy framework, maintaining the policy register and ensuring the timely revision, review and compliance of all policies.

IT and Office Management

· Lead the development, administration and optimisation of Salesforce, other fundraising platforms and related system integrations to support fundraising, donor engagement and programme delivery, liaising closely with the Salesforce consultant to implement system enhancements and resolve issues.

· Drive the continuous improvement of Salesforce systems, processes and data management practices, ensuring high standards of data quality, security and operational efficiency.

· Oversee the IT infrastructure, managing the procurement and ongoing maintenance of IT hardware, systems and software with support from the external IT provider.

· Provide training, guidance and user support on Salesforce, Sharepoint, and all related platforms to maximise staff capability and system adoption.

· Ensure a fully functioning office base which enables Hope for the Young to deliver its operational activities in the most efficient and effective manner.

Human Resource Management

· Lead and oversee HR operations, including the recruitment, onboarding and retention of staff and volunteers

· Oversee employee lifecycle processes, including inductions, appraisals, performance reviews and professional development planning

· Ensure compliance with employment legislation and organisational policies through effective management and administration of contracts, HR records, employee benefits and people processes

· Lead on team wellbeing, fostering a supportive, inclusive, and resilient working culture across the team

The job description as described will be reviewed on a regular basis to respond to any changing needs of the post.

Benefits

• 25 days' annual leave (pro rata), excluding bank holidays, plus additional time off over the Christmas period

• Flexible/hybrid working arrangements

• Access to an Employee Assistance Programme (EAP) – a confidential counselling/support helpline

• Regular development opportunities to support professional development

• Quarterly wellbeing afternoons – group outings or activities to relax and unwind

Further Information

• You must have the right to work in the UK to apply for this job.

• You must adhere to Hope for the Young’s Equal Opportunities Policy at all times.

• Your employment at Hope for the Young is subject to two satisfactory references and an Enhanced DBS check.

• There is a 3-month probation period for this role.

To Apply

We welcome and encourage applications from people of all backgrounds, particularly those with lived experience of forced migration. If you think you have the skills and experience to be our new Head of Finance and Operations, we would love to hear from you.

We understand that AI can be a helpful tool when writing job applications. However, our advice is to not over-rely on AI and ensure your application is a true reflection of you and your voice. We can often tell when AI has been over-relied on and, in many cases, this is not giving applicants the best chance of success.

To submit your application you will need to send your CV and supporting letter, outlining how you meet the person specification for this post and explaining why you would like to work for Hope for the Young.The deadline to apply is 9am Thursday 3rd September. Interviews will take place on 10th and 11th September. If successful, you will be invited to a second interview the following week.  

Head of Finance

Reports to: Director of Finance, Data and Innovation

Line reports: 2

Location: London, hybrid working, with minimum 40% of working time in the office

Salary: London £54,000 (salary band £54,000 - £58000; Outside London £51,500 (salary band £51,500 to £55,500)

Hours: 37.5 hours per week

Contract: Permanent

The Head of Finance will lead the day-to-day finance function, ensuring our financial information is accurate, timely and useful. The role will oversee financial reporting, controls, compliance, payroll, budgeting and forecasting, while managing and developing the finance team. The postholder will work closely with budget holders and senior leaders to support good financial decision-making across the organisation. The role will also provide oversight of key operational areas, including premises, health and safety, equipment and outsourced technology support.

In the first 6–12 months, the postholder will be expected to strengthen monthly reporting, improve budget holder support, maintain clear financial controls, support the annual audit and help embed effective finance processes across the organisation.

Financial responsibilities

· Ensure that all financial data is accurately recorded, maintained and reported in accordance with relevant accounting standards and guidelines

· Ensure compliance with relevant financial, tax and statutory obligations, including VAT, PAYE and other reporting requirements

· Lead financial business partnering across the organisation, ensuring budget holders have the knowledge, skills and tools to manage their budgets effectively. This will include:

• • Running effective budgeting and forecasting processes to ensure the organisation has a robust plan
  • Producing monthly management accounts with useful variance analysis to ensure proper financial management

· Alongside the Director of Finance, develop and maintain financial controls to safeguard the charity’s assets, ensuring clear processes are in place and control checks are documented

· Take full management responsibility for the finance team, lead, motivate and develop them to ensure that they are focused, competent and working effectively and efficiently

· Maintain clear review and approval processes so that financial work is properly checked, authorised and documented

· Oversee finance processes for the trading subsidiary, including reviewing postings, accounts and consolidation entries

· Produce or review monthly payroll amounts and postings

· Lead preparation for the annual audit and statutory accounts, ensuring working papers, reconciliations and supporting evidence are complete and accurate

· Ensure restricted funds, grants and project income are recorded, monitored and reported accurately

Operations

· Ensure premises and properties are managed appropriately on a day-to-day basis

· Ensure we comply with H&S standards in our multiple offices

· Ensure the organisation has the resources it needs to do their job through the procurement/ provision of laptops and other equipment

· Work with colleagues to ensure we comply with GDPR

Person specification: Skill / experience 

Essential

A demonstrable interest and commitment to working with, and supporting people from, a refugee background

Financial and Operational Responsibilities

Strong management accounting experience, including business partnering with budget holders to support good decision-making

Good understanding of UK charity accounting, including charity SORP, audit and year-end reporting

Professional accounting qualification or substantial relevant accounting experience

Management experience and ability to support and develop line reports in a welcoming and inclusive environment 

Understanding of key compliance areas relevant to charity finance and operations, including VAT, Gift Aid, PAYE, P11D and GDPR

Good understanding of charity controls and risk management

Advanced Microsoft Excel skills, strong experience using finance systems (we currently use Xledger) and an interest in AI

Experience of charity fund accounting, including restricted funds and grant reporting

Experience of managing/supporting in the management of outsourced technology providers 

Personal Traits

Able to improve processes and deliver practical changes that make finance easier to use across the organisation

Able to manage competing priorities and maintain high standards during busy periods

Self-motivated, organised and able to deliver agreed outcomes on time

Analytical thinker with good problem-solving skills

Practical, flexible and willing to support both strategic and day-to-day finance work

Excellent verbal and written communication skills with the ability to articulate complex information to different audiences

Strong interpersonal and collaboration skills, with the ability to form effective working relationships with other teams

Desirable

Committed to continuous improvement and the use of agile tools to support business change

Considerations 

· As part of our safeguarding commitment to our clients, we carry out pre-employment checks to ensure that successful applicants are suitable to work with adults at risk. These include basic DBS checks for some roles, obtaining references and verifying a candidate’s identity and right to work in the UK.

· We are an equal opportunities employer and welcome applications from all suitably qualified persons regardless of age, disability, gender reassignment, sex, sexual orientation, marriage and civil partnership status, pregnancy and maternity status, race, religion or belief.

Breaking Barriers is committed to protecting an adult’s right to live in safety, free from abuse and neglect and for their views, wishes and beliefs to be fully considered when deciding action.