ACCOUNTANT

Role Overview

We are seeking an experienced and highly organised Accountant to oversee the charity’s day-to-day financial management and reporting.

Reporting directly to the CEO, the Accountant will play a key role in maintaining accurate accounts, preparing management reports, and supporting the annual audit and budget processes. This is a hands-on role suited to someone who enjoys working across all aspects of charity finance, from daily transactions to strategic financial planning.

About The Child Beale Trust

The Child Beale Trust operates Beale Wildlife Park, a 350-acre charitable wildlife park and estate near Pangbourne. The charity’s objectives are the advancement of recreation, conservation, education and biodiversity. The Park welcomes thousands of visitors each year and is home to a wide range of animals, gardens and visitor attractions.

Key Responsibilities

• Maintain accurate financial records using QBOL.
• Prepare monthly management accounts and capex/cashflow forecasts.
• Administer and submit VAT returns, liaising with our external VAT advisor where required.
• Oversee budget tracking and forecasting for all departments, working closely with budget holders.
• Prepare year-end accounts and liaise with external auditors.
• Support the CEO and trustees with financial reporting and board papers.
• Manage payroll and pension administration (payroll itself is outsourced).
• Oversee the purchase order and approval process (using ApprovalMax).
• Ensure compliance with all charity and statutory financial regulations.
• Support the development of financial systems and processes to ensure on-going overall efficiency.

Person Specification

Essential:

• Qualified or part-qualified accountant (ACCA, ACA, CIMA or equivalent) or qualified by experience.
• Strong experience in management accounting and financial reporting.
• Good working knowledge of QBOL (or similar accounting software).
• Experience preparing year-end accounts and working with auditors.
• Excellent Excel skills and attention to detail.
• Ability to work independently and manage competing priorities.
• Strong communication skills and ability to explain financial information clearly.
• Ability and desire to contribute to positive work environment.

Desirable:

• Experience in the charity or not-for-profit sector.
• Knowledge of charity VAT and restricted/unrestricted fund accounting.
• Experience in fund raising and Gift Aid management/optimisation.

Working Arrangements

• Option of a hybrid role with flexibility to work from home, but a minimum of 50% of hours must be worked on site at Beale Wildlife Park.
• Immediate start available, with a handover from the current Accountant to ensure a smooth transition.

Start Date: Immediate – full handover provided

Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis, and early applications are encouraged.