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Job Summary
We are seeking a dedicated and detail-oriented Business / Operations Manager to join our team. The ideal candidate will play a crucial role in ensuring the smooth operation of our office by providing comprehensive administrative support. This position requires strong organisational skills and the ability to manage multiple tasks efficiently while maintaining a high level of professionalism.

The Operations Manager is responsible for overseeing the business functions of the charity, ensuring efficient and compliant operations. This role covers finance, HR, IT, premises management, recruitment, health and safety, and GDPR/data protection. The successful candidate will work closely with the CEO, leadership team, and external specialists to support the charity’s mission and maintain operational excellence.

Responsibilities

Human Resources & Recruitment:

· Oversee HR processes, from recruitment to staff development, ensuring compliance with best practices.

· Manage employee relations and support performance management initiatives.

· Maintains training records and ensure all necessary training is booked for staff and volunteers.

IT & Data Management:

· Ensure the smooth running of IT services and systems.

· Oversee GDPR and data protection compliance, working with IT teams and external consultants if necessary, fulfilling the role of DPO for the charity.

Financial Oversight:

· Liaise with external accountants in relation to;

o Processing the monthly payroll

o Processing purchasing invoices ensuring all goods and services have been authorized

o Preparing and processing payments of invoices, expenses etc

· Monitor budgets, financial reporting, and ensure fiscal responsibility.

Premises Management:

· Manage the charity’s physical assets and premises, including vendor contracts and maintenance.

Health and Safety:

· Implement and monitor health and safety policies to provide a secure working environment.

Compliance & Risk Management:

· Maintain up-to-date knowledge of relevant regulations (e.g., data protection, health and safety) and ensure the charity adheres to them.

Strategic Project Management:

· Support the Head of Service in the oversight of operational projects, evaluate their success, and recommend improvements to processes.

· Any other duties from time to time as directed by the CEO or the Board of Trustees in the CEO’s absence

Management responsibilities

· Ensure that health and safety at work procedures are adhered to.

· Ensure all operating systems relating to service delivery are updated and reports generated for monitoring and evaluation, identifying and sharing any opportunities for learning.

· Prepare reports for Head of Service / CEO using DAVSS databases and co-ordinate information for funding/monitoring reports, liaise with the Fundraising team and outsourced finance team as needed in connection with external funding.

Person Specification

Essential:

· Proven experience in an operations or business management role.

· Strong financial acumen with experience in budget management.

· Excellent organisational and communication skills.

· Sound understanding of HR practices, IT management, and regulatory compliance.

Beneficial:

· A degree or at least 2 years’ operational experience in Business Management, Finance, or a related discipline.

· Relevant certifications such as CIPD (for HR), NEBOSH (for Health & Safety), AAT/CIMA (for financial management), ITIL (for IT services), or Prince2 (for project management).

· Experience or training in GDPR and data protection.

· An understanding of Domestic Abuse or the willingness to learn.

Key Competencies

· Strategic thinking and problem-solving

· Strong leadership and team management

· Ability to manage multiple priorities and work under pressure

· Effective stakeholder and vendor management

· A proactive approach to process improvement and risk mitigation

Personal Qualities

· Ability to motivate others and provide leadership

· Pro-active approach

· Excellent attention to detail as well as an ability to see the wider picture

· Commitment to excellent service provision and maintaining client confidentiality.

· Commitment to undertake training as needed

· Ability to work as part of a team and on own initiative

· A commitment to the practical application of equal opportunities and diversity.

· Integrity, honesty and reliability and a high level of respect towards others including clients, volunteers, staff, agencies, partners.

We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of adults, children, and young people, and expect all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. All roles are subject to safer recruitment practices, including an enhanced DBS check, references, and thorough vetting procedures.

We are an equal opportunities employer and welcome applications from all sections of the community, including those with lived experience of domestic abuse.

If you are looking for an opportunity to contribute to a dynamic team while developing your skills in a supportive environment, we encourage you to apply for the Operations manager role.

Bring your environmental passion for rivers to life!

Are you an enthusiastic finance professional who prides themselves on their attention to detail and excellence?  Would you like to work with the finance team for a charity who is invested in improving and making a real difference to our rivers here within the South East of England, which hosts some of the rarest Chalk streams on the planet?

About Us

The South East Rivers Trust (SERT), is the river restoration charity for the South East of England. Our vision is that rivers across the south east are clean, healthy and rich in biodiversity. Our mission is to restore and protect rivers and their catchments against multiple threats and a dramatically changing climate. We do this by:

• delivering evidence-based and nature-based solutions on land and in rivers;

• inspiring and empowering more people to protect rivers for the future.

Working at SERT is rewarding, fulfilling and busy. We work collaboratively and with passion, and this is reflected in our core values of: delivering high quality work, using expertise and scientific understanding, building good and effective relationships, and bringing positive energy to all we do. With rivers and catchments needing serious action to survive, our aims are growth and impact – so you’ll be comfortable with challenges and excited by change. If this sounds like an environment that you would thrive in, we would love to hear from you, please visit our website for more information.

About The Role

We have an exciting opportunity to join the South East Rivers Trust's Finance and Operations Team.  We are a small dynamic team, sitting at the heart of the organisation. The role reports directly to the Finance Manager and will provide support in administering all financial controls and processing for the organisation.  The successful applicant will come from a financial background with a strong understanding of financial principles, an accounting qualification and proficiency in Excel.  They will have experience in bookkeeping, reconciling accounts as well as dealing with banking, grant applications and expenses. 

The role would suit an individual, who is approachable and organised, with excellent attention to detail, able to work on their own or as part of a team.  The role involves liaising and following up with all teams to ensure the data provided is accurate and timely, to support grant applications, payments and audit requirements.

To be successful, they will need to be able to multitask, be proactive and have excellent communication skills, following up and advising staff across all teams.  They will need to have a positive attitude, and willingness to assist the whole team with other administrative tasks as and when required.  This role is predominantly working from home, with at least one day per week, (on a Thursday), working in the office in Leatherhead.

This is a part time position, to include Monday and Thursday (this being our in office day).  There may be a requirement to pick up additional hours to support with busy periods.

To apply for this position please complete an application form and send this together with your CV to us; further details can be found on our website.

Job Summary:  This role provides operational and strategic leadership for the Finance function of Feed The Hungry UK. As part of the Management team, this role reports to the CEO and the Trustee Board.

Work Pattern  Full time (37.5 hours per week)

Location:    Based at The Halo Centre, Coventry, with limited flexibility to work from home (by agreement).  

JOB DESCRIPTION  Main responsibilities.

Ensure the accuracy and completeness of all internal and external financial processing and reporting, ensuring full compliance with all laws and regulations, including the Charity Commission, HMRC and Companies House regulations.

1. Lead, motivate, develop and train the finance team, promoting an equal, diverse and inclusive team with a positive culture reflecting the values of Feed The Hungry. 

2. Ensure Feed The Hungry operates sound financial, risk management, internal control systems and maintains up-to-date Financial Regulations to safeguard stakeholders' interests and assets and to ensure the integrity of the organisation’s financial performance and statements. 

3. Provide effective day-to-day oversight of the organisation’s financial controls and financial performance, including keeping financial policies up to date and in line with our processes.

4. As Company Secretary, support governance activities, including administration for board meetings, trustee enquiries and administrative duties for the board. 

5. Be alert to all organisational activities that have a financial impact and speedily assess the impact of such activities. 

6. In partnership with the CEO and Directors, develop and support the delivery of the organisation's strategic plan and the related budgets and forecasts.

7. Ensure the preparation and presentation of accurate and timely financial data, including strategic plans, budgets, management accounts, live forecasts, and financial data and monitoring requested by funders.

8. Provide financial and management support to the CEO, Directors and trustees on the financial position and risks and opportunities of Feed the Hungry. 

9. Financial oversight of contract negotiations (utilities, insurance). 

10. Proactively develop strong working relationships with FTH managers, providing constructive challenge and commercial insight in support of the strategy. Be proactive in challenging the status quo and be prepared to bring new ideas that will enhance the organisation’s activities and returns. 

11. Regular monitoring and tracking of grants made to the organisation. Ensuring external reporting deadlines are met and internal updates on remaining spend is conveyed to project management grant holders. 

12. Administrative responsibility for oversight of the externally appointed auditors and the successful completion of annual audited financial statements and the annual report, and the timely submission to the Trustees.

13. Maintain an ongoing dialogue with the CEO and Directors, and the external auditors. Responsible for the Company's Finance, Tax, Pensions, Audit, and Payroll.

14. Fulfil the role and duties of Company Secretary and attend Trustee meetings with the CEO and Directors 

15. General Duties: 

    • Adhere to all company policies and procedures and recommend changes as appropriate. 

    • Attend all mandatory training required to complete and maintain your role, ensuring you keep up to date with changes to specific laws and legislation that are relevant to your role 

Are you an experienced finance professional looking to make a real difference in your community? Do you want to use your skills to support a fast-growing, purpose-driven charity making a positive impact across Northamptonshire?
We’re looking for a proactive and values-driven Finance Manager to join our expanding team at an exciting time of growth. This role offers a fantastic opportunity to shape and lead the finance function of our award-winning charity. As part of the senior leadership team, you’ll work closely with the CEO and Chair of the Finance Committee to ensure we continue delivering life-changing work.

Why Join Us?
Purpose-Driven Work – Be part of a team transforming lives across Northamptonshire through innovative, community-focused programmes. Flexibility – Enjoy a part-time role with hours that work around you, including hybrid working options. Autonomy & Impact – Take ownership of the charity’s financial strategy and systems, with direct input into decision-making. Supportive Environment – Join a passionate and collaborative team that values integrity, inclusion, and continuous improvement.
Ongoing training and CPD – Join a passionate and collaborative team that values integrity, inclusion, and continuous improvement.

What You’ll Do
•Lead financial planning, reporting, and budgeting processes.
• Manage day-to-day finance operations and oversee internal controls.
•Support funding, grant management, and compliance with charity finance regulations.
• Work closely with the CEO and Board to guide sustainable growth.
•Play a key role in driving the charity’s impact and future success.

What We’re Looking For
• Qualified or part-qualified accountant (e.g. ACCA, CIMA, AAT) or equivalent experience.
• Strong financial management skills – ideally with charity sector knowledge.
• A confident communicator who can explain finance clearly to non-financial stakeholders.

Someone who’s hands-on, detail-oriented, and passionate about making a difference.

Benefits
• Access to bespoke CPD and training from our partners including the Premier League, EFL, Northampton Town FC & the FA.
• Ongoing support and development via monthly one to ones and an annual training plan to support your personal and professional growth.
• Free tickets to NTFC men’s and women’s matches
• Work laptop provided.
• Flexible working patterns and remote working available.
• Free NTFC Community Trust kit worth £150
• Access to Employee Assistance Programme (EAP) with wellbeing perks and counselling

Are you methodical, highly organised, great at juggling ten plates and glasses at the same time whilst still solving a problem that hasn’t even arisen yet? Then come and join us at the Mary Ward Settlement as our Access to Services Manager!

You are a proactive, people-focused manager with a passion for delivering exceptional service.  You will lead a high-performing team that ensures a welcoming, inclusive, helpful and efficient experience for all students, staff, and visitors.

In this pivotal role, you will oversee a dynamic advice and guidance team, ensuring that every interaction is informed, supportive and aligned with our commitment to excellence. You will be a ‘go-to’ person who ensures that activity runs smoothly with the right resources and support in place all whilst demonstrating a calm and professional approach.  

You will be joining an organisation who is genuinely warm and welcoming, who thrives on nurturing people and their growth.  You will work closely with staff who are skilled and passionate people who are a pleasure to work with.

We are a multi service charity who offer adult learning, access to free legal advice and community services that work with the most vulnerable and disadvantaged groups to build stronger communities.  Based over three sites in Stratford, Southwark and Holborn.

This is a wonderful opportunity for an individual who wants to immerse themselves in a successful, interesting and inspiring organisation. 

We very actively encourage applications that are representative of the diverse communities that we serve. 

About the RSPCA

Founded in 1824, we have been saving animals for almost 200 years and are proud to be the oldest welfare charity. It has always been our vision to live in a world where all animals are respected and treated with compassion, so our volunteers and employees work tirelessly to ensure that all animals can live free from pain and suffering.

We seek to raise standards of care through our numerous campaigns and awareness of issues affecting animals today. We rely heavily on our volunteers, who play a significant role in enabling us to carry out this important animal welfare work every day!

The RSPCA Buckinghamshire South Branch

The RSPCA Buckinghamshire South Branch is one of the branches of RSPCA, but we are also a separately registered charity looking after animals in our local area. Much of the animal welfare work of RSPCA is carried out through local branches, which is run by volunteers who have the support of the National Society of RSPCA.

The main activity of our branch is specialised in the rehoming of small animals including cats, rabbits, birds, guinea pigs and hamsters. The animals come into our care from various sources such as those which are rescued, abandoned, neglected or given up by their owners. Each animal is medically and characteristically assessed to ensure it is fit and well before being available for rehoming. This all costs money, and could not be achieved without your support. 

Job Summary

This role is responsible for the development, implementation and operation of appropriate financial and business management tools to support the day-to-day business and financial administration of the Branch.

Reporting to and working closely with the Chief Executive Office (CEO), you will be expected to make use of the full capability of the Branch’s existing software systems (Google Workspace, and Quick Books) to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of service delivery and develop management information to aid the Trustees & CEO in decision making.

You will be responsible for all financial management across the charity. This includes bookkeeping; financial statements; financial planning; financial policies, processes and controls and budgeting. 

You must ensure that all activities are carried out in compliance with current legislation, Branch and Society policy, relevant Health & Safety regulations and any associated statutory or legislative requirements.

Note: Branch targets and budgets are agreed on an annual basis and these will inform the personal targets agreed at the annual performance review. Progress towards personal targets will be reviewed at regular one-to-one meetings with your line manager.

This role is home based, with occasional travel across South Bucks.

Principal Accountabilities

Financial Management & Operations

• Support the CEO as a key strategic and operational partner, acting as second-in-command and deputising in their absence where appropriate.

• Maintain all financial records and accounting systems (the Branch currently uses Quick Books accounting software), registers and statistics as required by the CEO & Branch Trustees.

• Work with the CEO and Branch Trustees to develop financial plans and an annual financial budget.

• Maintain close oversight of the branch’s budget in collaboration with the CEO, proactively identifying and addressing any discrepancies, overspend, or unplanned financial activity to ensure effective financial control and informed decision-making.

• Process, monitor, record and manage all receipts & payments to/from the Branch in accordance with the agreed procedures and in liaison with the appropriate staff and volunteers including weekly banking, cash handling, invoice creation and processing, Branch payments (including those made via credit cards and petty cash) and account reconciliation.

• Monitor, review and reconcile monthly receipts & payments on the Quick Books accounting system.

• Produce monthly management accounts which include bank reconciliations, balance sheets, Branch/departmental profit & loss statements, departmental comparisons and performance against budget and such other financial reports/management information as may be required including monthly reporting to the board of trustees.

• Coordinate bank accounts across the charity, including set-up and balance management.

• Prepare and submit quarterly VAT returns.

• Prepare annual financial statements and coordination of annual audit review.

• Support the staff and volunteers with day-to-day financial operations and ensuring departmental financial records are maintained and that monies received or expended are accounted for correctly.

• Work with the RSPCA Society National team regarding legacies, submission of care contribution funds, renewals of insurances etc.

• Ensure that strict protocols are followed for cash handling and that unbanked cash remains within the insured limit for cash held at each premises.

• Liaise with the Branch’s payroll provider to ensure staff hours are submitted and salary payments processed on a monthly basis and within the appropriate timescale.

• Process all staff and volunteer expenses in a timely manner.

• Manage all bookkeeping processes and functions, including the asset register, ensuring annual accounts are produced no later than the end of March each year.

• Develop, implement and maintain appropriate financial administrative procedures and processes.

Business Administration

• Responsible for day-to-day financial administrative support for the CEO and Trustees.

• Ensure that all administrative paperwork, including external correspondence is processed in accordance with Branch and Society procedures, including completion of all appropriate records for insurance and risk management purposes.

• Ensure financial data processing, retention and destruction conforms to the relevant policies such as GDPR.

• Ensure regulatory and legislative compliance of financial charity policies.

• Work closely with relevant operational staff to ensure appropriate responses are issued to all enquiries whether from members, supporters & volunteers, RSPCA colleagues or the general public.

• Liaise with staff and volunteers to facilitate the ordering of materials, supplies and equipment for the effective operation of the Branch, ensuring budgetary controls are maintained at all times.

• Work with the CEO and other staff to manage relevant licences, vendor relationships, service agreements and invoicing.

• Work with staff and volunteers across the whole charity on financial processes and controls.

Fundraising & Donations

• Identify, assess, and apply for appropriate grants and funding streams to maximise income for the branch, ensuring applications are timely, well-prepared, and aligned with funder criteria to support the branch’s strategic and operational objectives.

• Ensure that all donations (financial or otherwise) are acknowledged in a timely manner, receipts are issued for financial donations and the banking of all funds raised.

• Responsible for the accurate recording and banking of the funds raised.

• Develop, and manage relationships across relevant stakeholder groups, both within and outside the charity.

Gift Aid

• Ownership of the Gift Aid process.

General

• Attend meetings and training courses as required.

• Undertake such other duties as directed from time-to-time by your line manager.

Essential skills, qualifications and experience:

• A finance qualification or working towards level 3 AAT or ACCA with proven experience in charity financial operations.

• Good general level of education.

• Strong experience in financial reporting, budgeting and compliance.

• Demonstrable experience of managing small to medium size budgets (circa £400,000) & accounting systems (ideally with experience of Quick Books software).

• Proven experience of cash handling and financial management procedures. 

• Excellent communication and presentation skills.

• Proven ability to work to tight deadlines, be proactive and work autonomously.

• Proven IT literacy including use of business software and accounting packages (including Quickbooks), and Google Workspace.

• Strong numeracy and analytical skills.

• Experience supporting audits and implementing robust financial controls.

• Knowledge of Charity and Company Law.

• Proven ability to work under direction from superiors but equally able to use their own initiative.

• Proven ability to prioritise workload and meet tight deadlines.

• Proven ability to complete essential management paperwork and analyse data.

• Personable and with an open, positive approach to new ideas coupled with drive and enthusiasm.

• A flexible and collaborative approach to colleagues both staff and volunteers.

• Honest, trustworthy and reliable.

• A calm and friendly approach particularly when working under pressure.

• Sympathy for animal welfare and the work of the RSPCA.

• Full valid UK driving licence.

• Willing and able to travel around the Branch area on occasions.

Desirable skills, qualifications and experience:

• Experience of management & leadership.

• Training, coaching & mentoring skills.

• Experience of working with the general public and/or in a customer care environment.

• Experience of managing change in the workplace.

• Experience of managing small projects.

• Good basic knowledge of employment law.

• Knowledge of data protection requirements.

• Willingness to learn and acquire new skills through training.

We promote an inclusive working environment in which diversity is recognised, valued, and encouraged. We acknowledge the multi-cultural and diverse nature of the UK workforce and society in general. We are committed to principles of fairness and mutual respect where everyone accepts the concept of individual responsibility. 

Interim Head of Finance & Operations

Career Ready is a social mobility charity that believes that every young person deserves the opportunity to enjoy a rewarding future.

We were founded in 2002 by leading business figures with a mission: to boost social mobility by empowering young people and giving their talents a platform from which to flourish. Since then, we’ve grown in England and Scotland to support young people in areas of need.

We have an exciting opportunity for an experienced, qualified Finance professional to lead our Finance & Operations function.

About the Role

Reporting to the Chief Executive Officer the Interim Head of Finance & Operations leads on and assumes day to day responsibility for providing high quality, strategic financial management for Career Ready.

You will lead on business operations to ensure the ongoing effective functioning of the charity and drive sustainable growth.

The Interim Head of Finance and Operations plays a key role in leading greater organisational efficiency and simplifying processes and will continue the delivery of a project plan reflecting the 2025-30 strategy.

You will play a critical role in driving the increased quality of Career Ready’s offer to our stakeholders in line with our strategy, vision and values.

Member of our SMT, comprising of the CEO, Director for Scotland, Director of Programme and Partnerships and Heads of functions.

This is an interim role to cover a period of maternity leave.

Main responsibilities and accountabilities

· Lead, direct and manage the finance and operations functions, overseeing two direct reports, ensuring they deliver a high-quality service to all internal and external stakeholders and are seen as adding value, in enabling Career Ready to achieve its vision and strategic objectives through its people. 

· Continue the delivery of a project plan reflecting the 2025-30 strategy, ensuring that activities happen at pace, are deadline-driven and achieve a high level of impact.

· Assume overall responsibility for the financial management of Career Ready, working with the SMT to ensure high quality and effective use of charitable funds.

· Input into and review the financial elements of funding applications and ensure that fund accounting processes align with funders’ requirements for project reporting.

· Produce financial reports for various stakeholders, as well as leading on financial modelling.

· Have oversight of all financial and accountancy matters including month end reports, management accounts, cash flow management, compliance, tax liability, presentation of management information and KPIs. Ensure that the CEO and Trustees are provided with accurate, timely information and analysis. 

· Oversee and coordinate the fully managed payroll services with the external bureau for all Career Ready employees and for some internship students (Jun to Aug during the Summer)

· Administration of the Staff Opt-In Pension Scheme, including onboarding new staff (Royal London)

· Act as a role model in our ‘one team’ culture. Lead in the development of efficient working practices across the charity, creating momentum and supporting motivation within the charity. 

· Lead risk management strategies and internal control procedures to minimise the risk of loss, or damage to, Career Ready’s assets. 

· Prepare and submit annual operational budgets and annual accounts to the CEO for review and approval.

· Draft and deliver papers for Trustees and Finance and Fundraising Committee (F&FC) meetings. 

· Attend Board and F&FC meetings to present papers and answer questions related to areas of expertise. 

· Provide day to day line management of the Senior Finance Officers and support their ongoing growth and development.

· Management of organisational governance and compliance activities, including policy management.

· Oversee and manage the organisation’s risk management register and process, with input from SMT.

· Oversee reviews and renewals of all insurance policies that affect the organisation.

· Lead on the compliance of statutory and charity regulatory reporting, giving guidance to colleagues where required.

· Ensure any changes to processes and procedures across the function are clearly documented.

Person Specification

Essential skills and experience

•  Belief and commitment to Career Ready’s mission and values
• Qualified (ACA/ACCA/CIMA/AAT) accountant with at least 5 years’ experience in financial management including budgeting, preferably in the charity sector.
• Significant experience in producing management and financial accounts
• Skilled in financial reporting and producing VAT returns
• Preparing for and ensuring a successful year-end audit, and demonstrable knowledge of UK Charities SORP and other reporting standards
• Experience in budgeting to support strategic decision making.
• Financial dexterity and strong analytical skills.
• Strong IT skills, including advanced MS Excel skills and extensive of using an accounting software, preferably Xero
• Excellent organisational and prioritising skills and ability to work independently and with autonomy
• Strong starter finisher with ability to lead and drive projects
• Knowledge of charity governance and compliance requirements
• Ability to build excellent relationships and have effective engagement with stakeholders
• Good communication skills and ability to communicate financial concepts to non-finance staff
• Attention to detail
• Ability to present financial information to various audiences
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and sensitivity of financial information
• Ability to work in a fast-paced environment
• Ability to cope with competing demands to deadlines
• Honest and dependable

Desirable skills and experience

• Experience of leading a team, strong team building skills
• Line management experience
• Experience of using MS Planner or other project management tools
• Genuine interest in the work done by the Charity
• Experience of using a CRM (Salesforce)
• Degree in financial management or accounting

Full details are provided in the candidate pack

Salary and Benefits

Salary: £52,000 to £54,000 FTE (salary will be pro-rata for part time hours)

28-35 hours per week.  Career Ready is committed to supporting condensed/flexible working patterns.

Permanent and remote.  Travel to London required on an occasional basis

You will be rewarded with the following benefits:

· 6% contribution to personal pension plan, subject to 3% employee contribution.

· Annual leave: 27 days per annum plus bank/public holidays (pro rata for part time). The charity is also closed between Christmas and New Year. Career Ready also allows flexible use of some Bank & Public Holidays

· Cycle to Work Scheme

· Access to both our Reward Gateway Portal and an Employee Assistance Programme.

· Flexible working

· Work from home allowance and paid travel expenses.

We regret that Career Ready is unable to offer visa sponsorship and candidates must be able to demonstrate their right to work in the UK. In accordance with our commitment to safeguarding, offers of employment are subject to completion of a DBS check. 

Timetable

Applications close at 9am on Monday 21 July 2025 

Please note that the closing date may be brought forward if we receive strong applications.

This is an interim role to cover a period of maternity leave, with a provisional start date of late September for a handover period.