Financial Accountant Jobs
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
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 20 employees and anticipate doubling in size within three years. 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 support and mentor the Finance and Office Manager, ensuring that financial administration 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 single 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.
Key responsibilities:
- Developing a comprehensive financial strategy that supports the delivery of the charity’s objectives and activities
- Reviewing suitability of our current systems: Quickbooks for accountancy, Beacon CRM, PLEO for expenses management, Survey Monkey for data collection etc.
- Where necessary, identifying and implementing new software to ensure all systems and processes are robust, user friendly, deliver useful data analysis, integrate and/or improve automation
- Working closely with the Director of Transformations to translate the annual activity plan into an accurate organisational-level budget
- Advising the Chief Executive, team and Trustees, ensuring that benefits and risks of decisions are fully considered and fit with the overall financial strategy
- Oversee sound financial management and governance across the organisation
- Provide leadership and guidance to all things finance related, providing mentoring and support to the team
- Accountability for monitoring that the organisation’s services are, and will, run to budget, supporting budget holders and reporting promptly on risks
- Have ultimate oversight of the external audit and production of the statutory accounts, supported in delivery of this by the Finance & Office Manager
- Oversee production of management accounts and bespoke financial reports, including accurate forecasting, incisive analysis and accessible narrative commentary
- Support the Development team with financial submissions and other compliance areas (eg advising on and supporting with due diligence processes)
- 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
- Oversight of finance, governance and basic HR administration, supporting the Finance & Office Manager with high profile or complex queries, seeking specialist advice on financial or compliance matters as required
- Ensure the organisation’s compliance with charity law, in accordance with the Charity Commission in England & Wales
Skills & experience:
- You have interest and belief in our mission, to improve kids’ health through improving food and food education in schools
- You have full or partial qualification through an accredited accountancy body
- You have some experience in a senior finance role (eg Director, Head of, Management Accountant) in any sector, and some experience within a finance function in the 3rd sector (in particular familiarity with the Charity SORP and experience of administering restricted funds)
- You have experience of audit
- You enjoy a mix of leadership and rolling up sleeves to get hands on when the need arises
- You take a pragmatic and dynamic approach to robust financial management
- You can turn complex and dry data, into clear and engaging narrative
- You have project managed the implementation of new systems (accountancy / CRM / data)
- You are organised, methodical, strong on detail, and able to map out deadlines and plan ahead
- You are skilled in building rapport with people and strike a balance between being supportive and challenging
Benefits
You would be joining a friendly, supportive team who works hard but believe in a healthy work/life balance. 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, a Cycle to Work scheme, hybrid working, free access to the CODE app for discounted restaurants & hospitality venues, enhanced parental leave. 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.
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.
Please note that shortlisted candidates will be invited to a 30-mins online interview to take place on Weds 19th June. Successful candidates will then be invited to a second interview that will be in person at our offices in Brixton, London, on Weds 26th June.
We’re on a mission to transform kids’ health through food – plate by plate, class by class, school by school.
Using Anonymous Recruitment
This organisation is using Anonymous Recruitment to reduce bias in the first stages of the hiring process. Our system keeps your personal information hidden until the recruiter contacts you.
Are you a skilled finance officer looking to work in a charity that makes a difference to women’s lives?
We are an award-winning national charity, the UK's only employment charity solely for women with convictions.
We’re led by our vision of a society in which no woman is held back by a conviction, and where she has the support, encouragement and opportunities she needs to reset her life and thrive.
We work to create better informed and more empathetic attitudes about women with convictions and to raise awareness about the issues that often underlie women’s offending.
In short, we believe no woman should be held back by her past.
We’re looking for a new Finance Officer to join our small finance team. You'll ensure that all transactions are input into our accounting software Xero, process invoices and expenses, perform bank reconciliations, and be the first point of contact for all financial queries. As part of the Support Team you will also ensure the smooth running of our office.
We’re looking for someone with strong numeracy skills and attention to detail. Your knowledge of Excel sets you apart and experience of financial software is a must.
You will join a friendly and supportive team and organisation who are passionate about what we do. In addition to a competitive salary we offer flexibility, generous holiday, time off for your birthday, and wellbeing days.
Closing date: 20th May 2024
Interview date: 29th and 30th May 2024
As an organisation passionate about supporting women with criminal convictions into employment, we welcome applicants with lived experience of the criminal justice system. We welcome a broad range of candidates, particularly those who identify as Black, people of colour, and a range of ages as they are underrepresented in the organisation and the sector.
If you believe you would add value to the organisation within this role but don’t meet all the criteria we have laid out in the advert and job description, we would still love to hear from you.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as the applications come in. Don’t miss your opportunity, apply now!
My client is the leading charity stopping the heartbreak and devastation of baby loss and making pregnancy and birth safe for everyone. Working across the whole pregnancy journey, the organisation funds ground-breaking research, campaigns for changes to maternity care and provides expert information and support.
At present they are looking to appoint an interim Chief Operating Officer to provide maternity cover for the permanent postholder and support the organisation with the implementation of a new and ambitious strategic plan.
Key responsibilities:
- Ensure the efficient, effective development and running of the organisation’s core operations including finance, HR, IT and facilities.
- As a key member of the SLT, support the charity in executing its strategic plan, driving changes needed for the growth and development of the organisation.
- Overall responsibility for the management of the organisation’s financial plans, budgets and financial performance providing executive insight into new initiatives and scenarios.
- Act as Company Secretary, working with the trustees to ensure compliance with statutory and regulatory requirements.
- Embed a true team culture within the finance and business operations unit, ensuring balanced workloads, personal development and colleague engagement are at the highest levels
The successful candidate will be a fully qualified accountant and have previous experience of working at board level within a charity. With substantive experience in financial planning and business partnering, you will possess excellent communication skills and be able to convey complex financial information to a diverse range of stakeholders. Comfortable with leading teams outside of your financial expertise, you will be an empowering leader with strong coaching skills, and the ability to develop and inspire others.
My client offers a flexible hybrid working policy, with 2 days a week in their London office.
CVs will be assessed on a rolling basis and as such we highly recommend interest parties apply early to avoid missing out to an earlier close.
Ivy Rock Partners are pleased to be working with an outstanding housing association to recruit a Head of Rent Setting and Compliance to join their team.
This role is reporting directly to the Finance Director of Operations and the responsibilities will involve leading the rent-setting process and conducting thorough financial reviews.
This is a hybrid working role 1-2 days in the office based in Central London.
Key responsibilities include:
- Providing technical advice to the organization and ensure that the organisation complies fully with the Rent Standard of the Regulator of Social Housing and individual rent agreements
- Ensuring the accuracy of financial information related to rent accounting
- Contacting customers related to the rent setting
- Being the lead responsible for the annual audit and Regulatory returns
- Leverage data analytics to identify inconsistencies and other issues and driving improvements in operational services and processes
- Being accountable for preparing rent budgets
You will:
- Be a CCAB qualified accountant with relevant sector experience
- Have a strong understanding of the housing regulatory framework for landlords with a particular focus on knowledge around the Rent Standard
- Have substantial hands-on technical expertise and the ability to cultivate strong working relationships with all relevant service providers, suppliers, and stakeholders
- Experienced in managing external and internal auditors
Benefits include:
- 30 days annual leave (not including bank holidays)
- Two additional paid volunteering days each year
- Flexible benefits scheme
- Competitive salaries that are benchmarked regularly against current market rates
- 4 x salary life assurance
- Up to 10% pension contribution
Please get in contact with Megan Hunter for a confidential conversation about this role.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as the applications come in. Don’t miss your opportunity, apply now!
Do you have charity finance experience? Would you like to join a rapidly growing charity at our Head Office in Peterborough?
We are looking for a Finance and Payroll Officer to join our team. Reporting to the Director of Finance and operations, this role will ensure that appropriate financial processes and systems are followed and developed to support our charity’s sustainable growth and safeguard our financial health. The Finance & Payroll Officer will ensure that financial tasks and transactions are undertaken in an efficient, effective and timely manner and, importantly, that relevant financial information is provided to keep the Senior Leadership Team informed to make the best decisions for the charity. The role will also cover responsibility for all payroll operations, ensuring that all payments are accurate and on time and that appropriate and accurate information is provided to the Director of Finance & Operations, HMRC, pension providers and other external bodies. We are looking for a confident and experienced individual to join our supportive team. Previous charity finance knowledge and Xero is helpful but not essential, above all we want an individual to be tenacious, curious, diligent and show strong initiative.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as the applications come in. Don’t miss your opportunity, apply now!
Our close partner is providing financial services guidance to a number of large development agencies & institutions around the world proving grants to NGOs. The International Development team works closely with these global clients – such as UNICEF, The World Bank and the Gates Foundation ensuring their funds are managed approrpiately maximising the effectiveness of crucial development projects.
The Project Coordinator has to assist in providing project coordination for the full life cycle of any assignment offered to our clients; from the proposal process, contract management with the client, assignment planning, through to assisting with the report writing, and ultimately billing the client.
Contract Responsibilities
·Assist with proposal and tender submission, including preparing project budgets and schedules, liaising with prospective staff and ensuring all proposals are submitted within the respective deadlines
·Ensure that contracts are as per the issued proposals, that all terms agreed are in the organisations’ best interests and support the Managers/Partners in any contract administration required
·Plan the fieldwork of the project, including agreeing dates with the beneficiary, liaising with internal and external staff to ensure they can perform the required service on the agreed dates and that all parties have the necessary information to ensure the project fieldwork runs smoothly
·Draw up contracts between our organisation and any subcontracted firm
·Monitor and track project progress and on our ‘Control Schedule’ to ensure all stakeholders are kept up to date with any project developments and that deadlines are met
·Act as the point of contact for all stakeholders (including the client, the beneficiary, internal/external teams and management)
·Assist the manager in finalising of reports & deliver final product to client
·Monitor internal staff working hours & expenses incurred, to ensure project budgets are adhered to
·Check and process external suppliers’ invoices, making sure all days worked and expenses incurred are within the agreed budget, liaising with finance as and when issues arise
·Assist in client billing, ensuring that all bills issued are as per the contractual terms between the firm and the client, that all costs are accounted for, and that bills are paid by the client in a timely manner
·Create and maintain comprehensive project documentation for future use, ensuring that all projects are properly logged and can be used in future proposals/tenders
·Carry out required client onboarding procedures and compliance checks
·General: translate documents, maintain filing system of documentation by client and by assignment, assist with training new project coordinators, archive files when necessar
The Project Coordinator takes responsibility for specific clients and works closely with the respective Project Managers, Manager and Partner.
This is an amazing career opportunity for someone that want to work for a successful internationally focussed and diverse organisation truly making a difference in the world!
About the organisation
The YMCA is a global movement which began in 1844 with Central YMCA. It is now a leading UK education, health and wellbeing charity that transforms lives by breaking down barriers to life-changing opportunities. Central YMCA’s work includes creating alternatives to traditional education such as apprenticeships and study programmes, training fitness professionals who inspire communities, developing qualifications through our awarding organisation and helping people improve their health and wellbeing through the largest gym in central London.
About the role
Reporting to the CFO, the Head of Finance is responsible for leading a team of 5 and overseeing the day-to-day financial management of the charity, supporting and developing its financial strategies. In collaboration with the Charity’s Executive Team, the role is responsible for safeguarding the short, medium and long-term financial health of the organisation. This includes all financial reporting requirements, treasury management (overseeing the organisation's cash and liquidity performance) and the management of the annual budget and financial planning processes. The Head of Finance is also responsible for designing, implementing and maintaining a Management Information (MI) reporting suite which supports the Charity’s operations, commercial development activities and long-term strategies. Lastly, the Head of Finance is tasked with managing the development of the Finance department.
Areas of responsibility will include:
Financial Strategy and Policy
- Support the Charity’s Executive Team with ensuring the short, medium and long term financial health of the organisation
- Collaborate with the Charity’s SMT to prepare business cases and financial models to support new business activities and investment proposals
- Review and update the charities financial policies
- Cultivate a support structure across the organisation where the finance department acts as a trusted business partner for operations and management
Reporting
- Oversee all financial reporting processes for the Charity, ensuring that accurate, timely and relevant information is disseminated across the organisation
- Work with the SMT to identify areas to improve the reporting processes
Statutory Reporting, Audit & Risk
- Manage the Charity’s financial statutory compliance for both audit and regulatory matters and oversee the finance risk register
- Lead the year-end audit process, including the preparation of audit schedules, reconciliations and acting as a key point of contact for the auditors
- Prepare the financial disclosures sections of the Charity ‘s annual reports and the accompanying narrative to explain the financial performance of the year
- Support the Charity’s regulatory compliance responsibilities, particularly with the financial elements of ESFA funding guidelines. Prepare financial returns, financial health assessments and other submissions to ensure that ESFA requirements are fulfilled.
Cash Flow Management
- Monitory the Charity’s cash flow, manage the working capital controls and produce cashflow reports and forecasts
- Oversee the Charity’s cash flow management processes and report on cash flow performance against budget and forecast targets.
- Prepare weekly cash flow forecasts which provide a consistently reliable understanding of the organisation’s cash flow position over the financial year.
Finance Department Development
- Design and implement learning and development frameworks for each member of the Finance department.
- Ensure that each member of the Finance department is sufficiently supported to fulfil their performance development goals.
About you
- Qualified Accountant (ACA/CIMA/ACCA or equivalent)
- Experience of audit and preparation of annual financial accounts under UK GAAP and understanding of Charity SORP
- Experience of leading and developing Finance teams
- Experience working within the Charity or Education sectors (experience working with ESFA funding is preferable)
- Experienced managing budget processes
- Experience of business partnering
What’s in for you?
- Salary of £60,000 - £65,000 per annum depending on experience
- Hybrid working arrangements – 2/3 days required in office per week
- Office located on Great Russel Steet (Nearest tube station is Tottenham Court Road)
The Confederation of School Trusts exists to represent academy trusts and to continually enhance our education system. They are now looking for a Chief Operating Officer to develop a financial strategy and operations as they enter a new phase of development.
· Location: Remote with regular travel to Nottingham/London
Applications close at 9 a.m. Tuesday 4th June.
Who we are.
The Confederation of School Trusts (CST) is the leading advocate and support network for school trusts in England, representing approximately 75% of the academy sector. With a membership-centric approach, we prioritise the needs of our member trusts, serving as their collective voice and championing their contributions to education.
Funded through various channels, including memberships, events, and partnerships, CST operates alongside CST Professional Development Ltd, offering tailored training and services focused on trust governance.
About the role.
We are seeking a Chief Operating Officer (COO) to drive strategic development amid political shifts. Reporting to our Chief Executive Officer, the COO will oversee financial management, operations, digital strategy, and corporate governance, playing a pivotal role in shaping CST's future.
Responsibilities include financial strategy development, budgeting, compliance, and team leadership across CST and its trading arm. The COO will ensure operational efficiency, manage contracts and procurement, and spearhead digital infrastructure and information governance enhancements.
This hybrid role requires regular travel to our offices in Nottingham and London. The ideal candidate will demonstrate autonomy, accountability, and a strategic mindset, with expertise in financial planning, operational management, and digital strategy implementation.
Who we are looking for.
Proficiency in people management, culture development, and regulatory compliance is essential. Experience in charity and corporate governance is desirable, as is a genuine commitment to improving the academy trust system in the UK.
If you're a qualified accountant with a passion for driving organisational excellence and supporting education leaders, we encourage you to apply and join us in making a difference in the lives of learners across the country.
Please click 'Apply via website’ to be redirected to the Peridot Partners website, where you can find full details of the job description and register your interest to apply.
Applications for this role close at 9 a.m. Tuesday 4th June.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as the applications come in. Don’t miss your opportunity, apply now!
Senior Finance Business Partner
Permanent, Full-time
£60,000 - £65,000
Hybrid working 3 days in office
Location: Central London
My client is a world-leading arts not-for-profit organisation that works to push the boundaries of the arts and work tirelessly to produce new shows. As part of the organisation’s ongoing growth plans, they are currently in the process of improving the commercial arm of their business and explore new avenues for revenue. This has led to a need to recruit a senior finance business partner in support of this ambitious plan. As the senior finance business partner you will work closely with the wider team as well as moulding the department and building relationships with senior stakeholders.
Key responsibilities:
- Develop strong working relationships with key stakeholders and work in partnership with other teams providing data and analysis relevant to the business strategy.
- Use data from various data sources to understand historic trends and use this information to create financial models and presentations to inform budget decisions.
- Create income and cost Key Performance Indicators and research other organisations to measure performance.
- Provide timely and accurate monthly management accounts including income and expenditure, balance sheet reconciliations and Key Performance Indicators.
- Prepare budgets according to timelines in discussion with the team and Chief Financial Officer.
- Prepare monthly rolling forecasts of income and expenditure, working closely with other members of the Team,
- Undertake monthly reviews with budget holders to review income and direct costs and feedback to key stakeholders where necessary.
- Take an active role in aiding senior managers and team members understanding of their financial responsibilities.
- Working with the Financial Accounts Team, ensure complete and accurate transaction processing.
The successful candidate will be a fully qualified accountant with a desire to drive change in an organisation, influencing senior stakeholders at multiple levels. Additional skills include highly developed interpersonal and communication skills with the ability to liaise and work across different teams.
My client is fully open to sector experience and committed to delivering a first-class training and induction programme. As such we welcome candidates from industry, charity or practice backgrounds
One of the UK’s largest and highest profile groups of schools is looking to recruit a new Head of Operational Finance - to work from their head office in East Croydon (3 days per week in office). This is a fantastic opportunity to have a real impact with an organisation whose purpose is to make life fairer for children in and around London. Focusing on the most challenging schools and turn them into exceptional places of learning where everyone – staff and students – thrive.
Job Purpose
To manage the internal financial operational processes and reporting for the Federation, ensuring timeliness, accuracy and completeness. To provide financial support and advice to Head Office departments and schools, including the Federation Senior Leadership Team. To provide support to the Financial Controller and Director of Finance as required.
The Federation is going through an exciting period of change and this role represents an excellent opportunity to be part of driving improvements within a large organisation, as part of a compact and high-performing central finance function.
Main Areas of Responsibility
- Oversee all income processing for the schools and federation.
- Oversee all payroll processing for the schools and federation,
- Manage the BACS and manual payment process
- Review central processing for best practice.
- Oversee Balance sheet reconciliation for the schools and federation monthly
- Maintain the finance handbook and other published guidance
- Work with FC and Systems team to implement month end timetable
- Develop and implement a training for Finance Officer’s, Management Accountant’s and Accounts Payable team
- Work with the Financial Controller on producing and reviewing consolidated monthly accounts
- Work with partnership team to incorporate proposed adjustments to Month end and Year end accounts in line with the timetable.
- Prepare all consolidated submissions to the Department for Education
- Prepare year end papers and supporting schedules for head office activities
- Liaise with the Internal Audit team and External auditors
- Assist with various ESFA submissions and audits
- Oversea Reconciliation and review of monthly inter-academy recharges
- Review of monthly journals (e.g. prepayments, deferred income, academy recharges)
- Identify and evaluate opportunities for improving value for money
- Work closely with other departments and Hubs within the central federation such as procurement to ensure that we have clear and smooth processes between departments
- Ad hoc tasks as required by the DF and FC
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as the applications come in. Don’t miss your opportunity, apply now!
E3G PROGRAMME FINANCE LEAD, OPERATIONS, LONDON
E3G funding comes from a wide variety of funders around the world. We are looking for a CCAB qualified finance person with a minimum of 3 years’ experience in a charity or not-for-profit programme finance context. The role will work with the Chief Financial Officer and Programme Leads to manage our financial relationships with these funders and the end-to-end finance activities across our funders and programmes.
Background
Founded in 2004, E3G is a not for profit organisation who are world leading strategists on the political economy of climate change, dedicated to achieving a safe climate for all. Our goal is to translate climate politics, economics and policies into action.
E3G currently has offices in London, Brussels, Berlin and Washington DC. Some European travel is required.
Key Responsibilities
- Managing monthly internal project reporting to project leads.
- Managing external funder reporting and project audits.
- Liasing with project leads and project management team to provide expert advice and ensure compliance with funder regulations across projects.
- Supporting with the development and review of funder budgets for grant proposals.
- Managing staff rate card process for charging out time to funders.
- Managing cash receipts process from funders.
- Delivering regular funder income and cashflow forecasting.
- Supporting statutory audit process for revenue recognition on projects.
- Supporting management and development of internal project management system.
- Ad hoc financial analysis as required to support strategic decision making.
- Management of one Assistant Finance Manager
- Deputising for CFO at senior management and board if necessary
Experience and Skills
The successful candidate will:
- Qualified accountant with a minimum of three years post qualification experience.
- A strong desire to work for a climate change, not for profit organisation is essential. Experience in not-for-profit or charity organisations is essential.
- Strong Excel skills are essential with the ability to work competently with minimum supervision.
- Solid organisational skills and good attention to detail.
- Strong communication skills, both written and verbal.
- Hybrid Working but ideally at least 2 days per week in the London office.
What we offer
- Permanent, full-time position.
- Flexible working arrangements and hybrid working approach.
- 25 vacation days + additional leave between Christmas and New Year.
- 7.5% Employers Pension contribution plan.
- E3G offers a reward and benefits package which compares well with other organisations within our sector. The indicative salary range in the UK for this position is up to ₤57,000- £65,000.
- Yearly process for remuneration review.
E3G is unable to provide any relocation assistance to candidates who would need to move in order to take up this position. Occasional international travel may be required from time to time.
E3G will require candidates to demonstrate that they have the right to live and work in the UK.
How to apply
Please submit your application in English
Please include:
- A CV of maximum two pages
- A cover letter of no more than one page outlining why you are applying for this role and when you would be able to start
The deadline for applications is 17 May 2024.
This is rolling recruitment with interviews being conducted until the position is recruited. We reserve the right to remove this advert, dependent on the level of response received. You are therefore advised to submit your application at the earliest convenience.
Whilst we very much appreciate the time you will have taken with your application, unfortunately due to the level of response we receive we will not be able to reply to every candidate. Therefore, if you have not heard from us with 2 weeks of the closing date please assume that on this occasion you have been unsuccessful.
E3G values diversity and welcomes applications from all suitably qualified candidates regardless of age, gender, race, disability, sexual orientation, religion or ethnic background. We aim to build an inclusive workforce that is reflective of the populations we support, and actively seek applications from those who are marginalized and underrepresented. We are committed to providing reasonable accommodations to applicants with disabilities.
We work on the frontier of the climate landscape tackling the barriers and advancing the solutions to a safe climate.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Finance Lead – Enabling & Strategic Investments
Are you passionate about making a difference in the lives of people with learning disabilities? We are looking for a talented and motivated Finance professional to fulfil a high profile Finance Lead role supporting the Enabling areas (support functions) and Strategic Investments portfolio.
This role will deliver high quality insight and financial management, helping to ensure spend is efficient and that our strategic investments are delivered against their business cases. The Strategic Investments are integral to delivering our organisational priorities and this role would work with various senior leaders.
As the Finance Lead for Enabling & Strategic Investments you will support efficient financial management, insightful financial reporting, and support effective strategic investment decision-making. This role is pivotal in optimizing financial resources to improve the lives of individuals with learning disabilities.
Key Responsibilities:
· Provide timely, accurate and insightful management reports for the directorate, helping to support good decision-making and financial management.
· Lead financial planning processes and collaborate with the Project Management Office (PMO).
· Assess risks, opportunities, and support on business cases for strategic investments.
· Provide line management and support to a Finance Business Partner.
· Ensure financial compliance with regulatory requirements.
What You Will Bring:
· Strong analytical abilities, attention to detail, and strategic thinking.
· Ability to communicate financial information effectively.
· Excellent prioritization, stakeholder management, and collaboration skills.
· Self-motivated with a commitment to making an impact.
Your Experience:
Essential:
· Fully qualified accountant (CIMA, ACA, or equivalent).
· Strong Excel skills
· Excellent stakeholder management and communication skills.
Highly Desirable:
· Relevant post-qualification experience in commercial or charity sectors.
· Experience Finance Business Partnering operational areas and/or projects/programmes
· Experience with investment/business cases and project accounting / portfolio management.
Benefits
Why join Mencap?
· 24 days annual leave plus bank holidays + a variety of benefits including pension and holiday buying options.
· Ongoing training and development opportunities to enhance your skills.
· A supportive and inclusive work environment where your contributions are valued.
Join us at Mencap and be part of a team that believes in equality, diversity, and inclusion. Together, we can create a brighter future for individuals with learning disabilities and empower them to break down any barriers they may face.
Mencap vision is for the UK to be the best place in the world for people with learning disabilities. If you're ready to embark on a rewarding career that truly makes a difference, apply now!
About Mencap
At Mencap we work in partnership with people with a learning disability. We do this by providing high quality, flexible services that support people, including young adults, to live as independently as possible in their own homes and in the community.
Everyone wants a purposeful job - to do something meaningful. At Mencap, we can give you that. You will have opportunities to develop as a person, colleague, leader and activist.
You’ll make new friends and feel inspired to reach your potential. We will ask a lot of you - but you’ll get back so much more. With us, it is never ‘just a job’.
In return for your hard work and passion, we can give you real meaning and purpose in your work.
The Role
This role will ensure the organisation is following robust financial systems and processes; carry out all day-to-day accounting tasks; and ensure timely production of financial information to inform management decisions. Most tasks can be done from home, however some tasks such as banking and petty cash reconciliation will require you to attend our offices. Once the initial training is complete you will be able to arrange your own hours, to be worked Monday to Friday.
This role is for a fixed period of 12 months, to cover maternity leave.
About You
A proven track record of relevant financial administration experience is essential and competence in the use of Xero accounting software, Excel and other MS packages such as word and Outlook is essential. You will have an organised approach to workload and ability to prioritise tasks and meet deadlines, be flexible and adapt to the requirements of the role. You must be able to clearly convey financial information to non-finance colleagues.
This role would suit someone looking to increase their experience of working within the charity sector as part of a busy and friendly finance team, perhaps whilst studying to complete AAT Level 4 or similar.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
About Somerset Community Foundation
We’re a grant-making charity that helps build strong communities where everyone can thrive. We do this by funding local charities and facilitating local giving.
We provide simple, rewarding and impactful ways for donors to give locally, guided by research and our unrivalled local knowledge.
For small, local charities, community groups and social enterprises, we provide vital funding and support to help their organisations flourish. We provide around £4 million of funding to local groups every year. Our turnover in 2024 was nearly £6 million, and we’re building an endowment for long-term investment into our communities, which is currently valued at about £8 million.
By inspiring local giving and funding social action, we support local communities to drive change and realise their dreams.
The role
You’ll bring energy and enthusiasm to the team, ensuring financial functions are carried out efficiently, effectively, accurately and in a timely way to enable us to focus on achieving our charitable mission.
The focus of the role will be on managing and improving financial processes, ensuring that the Senior Leadership Team have up-to-date and accurate records for reporting to the Board, supporting the programmes and philanthropy teams with accurate fund reports and preparing the accounts for audit each year. You will work closely with the whole team of staff and volunteers, but you will work most closely with the Operations Director and the Finance Manager.
You’ll be provided with training on our CRM and IT systems. The successful applicant will always be expected to observe our values and policies and to actively engage with continuous professional development.
Key Areas of Responsibility
1. Treasury and Investment Management
· Monitor endowment investments and provide calculations and support in relation to total return
· Prepare quarterly investment management report
· Treasury management to maximise our investment returns
2. Bookkeeping and Management Accounts
· Work with the Finance Manager to ensure donations are properly recorded on our CRM and in Sage
· Work with the Finance Manager to reconcile bank accounts monthly
· Preparing monthly management reports, noting significant variances with forecasts
· Monitor outstanding debtors, and with line manager approval, chase overdue debtors
· Prepare fund balances when required by the programmes team to support grant-making
· Presentation of management accounts to board and engagement with board members as required
3. Annual Accounts
· Prepare statutory accounts, working with the Operations Director and CEO to ensure income and costs are allocated accurately across SORP categories
· Participate in the Audit process, engaging with auditors and prepare information for audit and liaise with auditors in the conduct of the annual audit process
· Prepare annual fundholder statements
· Support the Senior Leadership Team in the preparation of the annual budget and cash flow forecast
4. Other Work Required
· Support the Finance Manager and provide cross cover when required
· Attend SCF events as requested, including very occasionally, evenings
· Any other reasonable duties as requested
Person Specification - Skills, Knowledge and Experience
Required
· Ideally at least five years’ experience in a similar role
· Minimum of AAT Level 4, preferably ACA/ACCA or equivalent
· Experience of accounting software, especially Sage Line 50
· Experience of working with databases and Microsoft Office, including Office 365
· Knowledge of charity finance
· Excellent interpersonal and communication skills
· Able to work under own initiative but also able to request support when necessary
· Confident managing a busy and varied workload and able to prioritise effectively
· Good problem-solving competencies
· Please note that our office is in a rural location and that access to a car and a clean UK driving licence are required.
Desirable
· Supervision or line management of other team members
· Understanding of the role of local charities, voluntary organisations and social enterprises, and the people they help
· Experience presenting at board level
More about working for us
Our values: We’re a values-driven team and organisation, and they underpin our culture, identity and everything we do.
Diversity, equity and inclusion: Together we’re creating a culture where everyone, from any background, can do their best work and bring their whole self to work. We’re also working to ensure the voices of those we support inform everything we do. We would especially welcome applications from minority ethnic people, people with disabilities, younger people, LGBTQ+ people and people with ‘lived experience’ relevant to our work.
Flexible working: Our work is really important to us, but so is the rest of your life. We offer flexible working that means you can choose hours that work for you and choose a blend of working in the office, at home, or out and about.
Pension: We’ll match your pension contributions up to 5% to help you save for your future.
Enhanced Family Leave policies: We offer an enhanced family leave policy for all employees, including Enhanced Maternity, Paternity, Shared Parental and Adoption Leave.
WE HELP PASSIONATE PEOPLE IN SOMERSET CHANGE THE WORLD ON THEIR DOORSTEP BY FUNDING LOCAL CAUSES AND INSPIRING LOCAL GIVING AND PHILANTHROPY.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as the applications come in. Don’t miss your opportunity, apply now!
We are working in partnership with a charity which offers free and confidential information, advice, counselling, support and advocacy for children and young people under 26 in Southampton, Hampshire, Isle of Wight and Portsmouth whose mission is to empower young people to reach their full potential.
The charity is now seeking to appoint a Head of Finance who will have oversight of the finance team and will lead on strategic and operational financial management of the charity and preparing and analysing information.
This is an exciting opportunity to build on the charity’s existing successes, developing strength and sustainability to underpin services that benefit thousands of children and young people each year.
The successful applicant will be a qualified Accountant (CIMA / CIPFA / ACCA / ACA or equivalent), consideration may be given to a part-qualified candidate with substantial relevant experience and possessing a desire to consider continuing towards full-qualification.
You will demonstrate:
- Experience and understanding of financial processes including budget management, forecasting, day-to-day income and expenditure processes, monthly reporting, and year end audit processes
- Up-to-date knowledge of Charity regulations and relevant legislation and legal requirements
- Successful track record in working with a Trustee Board or other executive boards
- Ability to prioritise and organise own work, and that of others, to meet deadlines
- Experience of costing services/projects and producing comprehensive budgets
The successful individual will be part of the Senior Leadership Team and will make an active contribution to the strategic direction, planning and leadership of the charity in collaboration with the wider team. You will have high level of IT competency to support this role, including the use of Microsoft Office, and excellent communication skills with a commitment to personal growth and development. You will be a role model for the values of the Charity and ensure the needs of children and young people are at the heart of everything you do.
There may be opportunity to provide leadership oversight to other organisational infrastructure functions including IT, Business Support, Fundraising and Communications, depending on the candidate.
We welcome and encourage applications from people of all backgrounds. We do not discriminate on the basis of disability, race, colour, ethnicity, gender, religion, sexual orientation, age, veteran status or other category protected by law.
If you feel you have relevant skills and experience, please submit your CV and supporting statement to Sandra Smith, via the Charisma Charity Recruitment website.
Closing date for applications: 10 June 2024
Client Interviews: w/c 1 July 2024 (likely Friday 5 July)