Accountant Jobs
Are you an experienced finance leader who is passionate about animal welfare?
We’re looking for a Head of Finance to lead and support our finance function for six months, ensuring that the organisation receives an excellent finance service.
About this role:
As Head of Finance, you will:
- take day-to-day responsibility for the finance and accounting functions, ensuring systems are working effectively, suppliers are paid, payroll is completed, and ensure the new finance system meets the needs of the organisation,
- line manage and develop a team of finance professionals, ensuring an effective financial service is provided to the organisation through their expertise, championing continuous improvement,
- be accountable for the effectiveness of the charity’s annual budgeting and forecasting, and contribute to the updating of our five-year strategic plan.
About you:
To be successful in this role, you will need to be an experienced, qualified accountant who is comfortable working in large, complex organisations. You’ll need the ability to lead a dynamic team of finance professionals, from day-to-day support to professional development. Stakeholder engagement is a big part of this role, so you should feel comfortable working across the organisation with different teams and ‘breaking down barriers’ to develop key relationships. A commitment to the aims and objectives of Dogs Trust is essential.
About Dogs Trust:
We love dogs. That’s why we do whatever we can to make sure every four-legged friend gets the love they deserve. We’ll never put a healthy dog down, so our work is focused on helping dogs in need, supporting owners every step of the walk, and creating a better world for dogs in the future. It’s what we’ve been doing since 1891 and how we’ve grown to become the UK’s leading dog charity, helping 12,000 loyal friends find their forever homes every year.
About this team:
The purpose of the Finance Department is to support the rest of Dogs Trust in achieving the strategic aims of the charity. They work to ensure financial (and non-financial) systems and controls function effectively and limit the exposure of the charity to related risks, providing accurate, timely financial information and of course, paying suppliers in a timely fashion.
Please note, this role is being offered as a six-month contract. A basic Disclosure and Barring Service Check (DBS) and credit check will be required for this role.
To apply for this position please click the APPLY NOW button. Our application process requires you complete an application form and a covering letter explaining your interest and suitability for the role. Please note that we may close this vacancy early if we receive enough suitable interest, so to avoid disappointment early application is encouraged.
Dogs are incredibly diverse, much like the humans that love them! At Dogs Trust we value diversity and we're committed to fostering an inclusive culture. We actively encourage applications from people of all backgrounds, abilities, and cultures and believe that a diverse workforce helps us to achieve our mission. Our colleague networks give our people a voice acting as vehicles for real and meaningful change within Dogs Trust. We truly want to see every candidate shine throughout the entire job application process, interview stages, and during their time with us. If there's anything on your mind or any adjustments you may need, don't hesitate to reach out to us. We're here to support you every step of the way.
Job Purpose and Summary
- To provide strategic financial leadership through strategic planning and robust reporting to ensure financial sustainability and facilitate growth of the organisation in order to maximise impact, in line with charitable objectives.
- To act as company secretary and provide oversight of IT.
Responsible to CEO
Direct Reports 2-4 x Finance admin and 1 x IT
Location Remote, with minimum one day per week in office with team (location flexible)
Hours Flexible (as required to do job effectively).
% FTE 0.8 to 1.0 FTE
FTE salary range Senior Leadership Team Scale (£55-65k per annum)
Scope Across Bild Group (Bild, Bild Association of Certified Training and Restraint Reduction Network)
Key Responsibilities and Accountabilities
Responsible for:
- Financial oversight and leadership.
- Providing robust financial information to inform and improve operational management and decision making to further the charities’ objectives.
- Ensuring financial sustainability of the charity and facilitate growth and development to further charitable aims.
- Ensuring appropriate financial probity and controls in place.
- Financial planning including budgeting and forecasting.
- Financial reporting including monthly management accounts so that Directors and Trustees understand the financial health of the organisation.
- Financial compliance including with HMRC and Charity Commission.
- Facilitating Finance Sub Committee of the board, in coordination with Treasurer.
- Support Chair of Finance Sub Committee in providing assurance to the Trustees in relation to financial strategy, performance and financial sustainability.
- Effectively management of financial risks as part of organisational approach to risk management.
- Appraising the financial viability of plans, proposals, and feasibility studies.
- Monitoring and reporting on the financial health of the organisation.
- Oversight of and being responsible for the preparation and submission of all statutory financial accounts and returns.
- Ensuring effective Payroll function and Pension scheme.
- Effective procurement procedures to ensure services are best value for money.
- Ensuring effective financial audit.
- Maintaining positive and healthy cash position.
- Leading, with support from CEO, on commercial decisions including pricing.
- Identifying efficiencies to ensure the lean operation of the organisation.
- Timely completion of all Statutory returns.
Business:
- Act as Company Secretary supporting trustees to ensure all legal and statutory compliance with Charitable Articles and Charity Commission requirements.
- Oversight and continuous improvement of IT (and data) systems (with support from out-sourced IT support) to ensure efficient and effective workflow across the organisation.
- As business manager, lead on risk management and KPI dashboard reporting to trustees and Finance Sub Committee.
Person Specification
Qualifications
- Qualified accountant (CCAB/CIMA/ACCA) (essential)
Experience
- At least 5 years’ experience as an accountant (essential)
- At least 3 years’ senior leadership experience (essential)
- At least 3 years’ experience managing a staff team (essential)
- At least 3 years’ experience in registered charity OR health and social care (essential)
- At least 2 years’ experience of working at Board level (desirable)
- Significant experience of both accounting and financial management environment.
Competencies
- Proven ability to present financial information in accessible format.
- Proven ability to think and plan strategically and commercially.
- Proven ability to interpret financial reports and advise on any appropriate action required.
- Ability to communicate financial information clearly and accurately.
- Proven track record of facilitating growth and development.
- Proven track record of facilitating continuous improvement.
- Proven track record of successfully implementing new IT systems.
- Good understanding of IT systems including AccountsIQ (or equivalent finance systems) and Salesforce (or equivalent CRM system).
- Positive and solution focused thinking.
- High integrity and openness combined with commitment to good governance.
- Proven ability to develop positive relationships across the organisation and with external partners.
- Proven track record of effective collaborative and partnership working with CEO / Treasurer.
- Track record of effective leadership skills including as acting as a role model within an organisation, promoting positive culture and living the organisational values.
- A commitment to human rights and inclusion of people with disabilities.
- Demonstrate values congruent to Bild values.
Further information
- All staff at Bild are required to treat sensitive material confidentially and comply with data protection legislation.
- All staff working at Bild are required to read and comply with required policies, including health and safety policy.
- Job descriptions may be reviewed after 6-month probation and at annual performance review.
Application and Closing Date
Applications are invited by CV and covering letter.
Closing date is 5pm on Monday 27 May 2024
Equal Opportunities
Bild strives to be an equal opportunities employer. In working towards this aim no employee, or job applicant will receive less favourable treatment on the grounds of their role, gender, age, disability, race, nationality, ethnic or national origin, colour, sexual orientation, domestic circumstances, social and employment status, gender reassignment, privately held political opinion, trade union membership, religious or similar philosophical belief, or disadvantaged by conditions or requirements which cannot be shown to be justifiable.
Bild is committed to ensuring all employees have fair and non-discriminatory systems for recruiting or accessing training to enhance the development or promotion of staff.
As our Finance Manager you will be at the heart of the charity’s operations and play a vital role in helping us embark on a new 3-year strategy. Working closely with the Director of Operations and CEO your role and expertise will be pivotal in driving excellence and integrity in financial management and strategic financial decisions.
Your responsibilities will span the entire financial lifecycle, from budgeting and forecasting to meticulous reporting and process optimisation, you will also lead on management reporting, cashflow planning and the delivery of WellChild’s audit, Annual Report & Accounts.
You will have a detailed knowledge of accounting principles (ideally from within the charity sector), strong analytical skills; be able to demonstrate both operational and strategic thinking and have a proficiency in accounting alongside a relevant finance qualification; (ACA, ACCA, ACMA).
You will also need to have advanced excel skills, experience of charity accounts, SORP and charity VAT and be able to plan, prioritise and organise your work with impeccable attention to detail.
For full details of the role and contact details for a furhter discussion please see the Job description/ person specification and job advert documents.
We look forward to recieveing your application by the 20th May 24.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Ambitious about Autism is looking for an experienced and qualified Financial Controller to join the team. Candidates who trained at a top 15 private accountancy firm or equivalent public body, with charity sector experience, are especially encouraged to apply.
The Financial Controller at Ambitious about Autism (AaA) and Ambitious about Autism Schools Trust (AaAST) plays a crucial role in ensuring the accuracy, integrity, and completeness of the organisations' financial data. They are responsible for adhering to the Charities SORP and the Academies Financial Handbook for AaAST.
The primary responsibilities of the Financial Controller include:
- Financial Data Management: Ensuring that all financial data is accurately recorded, maintained, and reported in accordance with relevant accounting standards and guidelines.
- Compliance: Ensuring compliance with statutory and legal obligations related to financial matters. This includes managing tax affairs, including VAT, and ensuring timely and accurate payments.
- Control Environment: Establishing and maintaining a robust control environment to safeguard assets, prevent fraud, and ensure accurate financial reporting. This involves implementing internal controls, conducting regular audits, and addressing any control weaknesses or risks.
- External Scrutiny: Preparing financial reports and statements for external scrutiny, such as audits, regulatory inspections, or funder assessments. The Financial Controller ensures that all financial records and processes can withstand external scrutiny and meet the required standards.
- Finance System Development: Taking responsibility for the development and effective operation of the finance system, IRIS Financials. This includes optimising system functionality, ensuring data accuracy, providing user support and training, and exploring opportunities for process improvements and automation.
- Team management: lead the financial accounting team and ensuring an excellent service is delivered.
In summary, the Financial Controller at AaA and AaAST are responsible for maintaining the accuracy, integrity, and completeness of financial data, ensuring compliance with relevant accounting standards and legal obligations, managing tax affairs, and developing and operating an effective finance system.
In return, we offer great benefits including a generous holiday allowance and commitment to continued professional development (CPD), flexible, hybrid working and more!
This is a fantastic opportunity for an ambitious individual who would like to work for a forward-thinking, open and honest organisation and make a real impact to the young people we work with. Please find our full recruitment pack on the link below.
If you have any questions about the role or would like to have a confidential chat, please contact James Axford, Recruitment Officer.
Ambitious about Autism is fully committed to equality of opportunity and diversity and we warmly welcome applications from all suitably-qualified candidates. We welcome applications regardless of race, colour, nationality, ethnic or national origins, religion or belief, sex, sexual orientation, gender reassignment, marital or civil partner status, pregnancy or maternity, disability, or age. All applications will be considered solely on merit.
Ambitious about Autism is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and successful candidates will be subject to an Enhanced DBS check. As part of our Safer Recruitment checks, an online search maybe carried out in line with Keeping Children Safe in Education.
The Safeguarding responsibilities of the post as per the job description and personal specification.
Whether the post is exempt from the rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 and the amendment to the Exceptions Order 1975, 2013 and 2021. This means that when applying for certain jobs and activities certain spent convictions and cautions are ‘protected', so they do not need to be disclosed to employers, and if they are disclosed, employers cannot take them into account. Further information about filtering offences can be found in the DBS Filter Guidance.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
At Ambitious about Autism, we're currently looking for a Finance Business Partner to join our team.
You'll be responsible for the Business Partnering of some strategically important areas across the Group, supporting them to deliver their financial targets by developing trusted relationships and working alongside ELT members and budget holders to produce their finance model, annual budget and termly forecasts.
You'll influence and negotiate with senior colleagues and provide technical and strategic insight to ensure AaA reaches its financial targets. You'll lead on the monthly management accounts and reporting process, providing financial advice and support to projects within key departments and ensure that budgetary implications of projects are understood and dealt with appropriately.
The role would suit either a qualified accountant (can be recently qualified) who trained at a top 15 private accountancy firm/equivalent public body (e.g. NAO) or an experienced finance business partner.
We are looking for someone who:
- Has an accountancy qualification (ICAEW/ACCA/CIMA/CIPF);
- Can rapidly build understanding in a complex new environment and who can work independently, exercising judgement while not under close supervision;
- Has knowledge and experience of strategic finance and business planning;
- Has either knowledge of the Charities Statement of Recommended Practice (SORP) (FRS 102) 2019, or knowledge of IFRS or FRS102 and the ability to quickly learn the differences under the SORP (with support from colleagues); and
- Has proven experience of working closely with stakeholders at varying level of seniority.
In return, we offer great benefits including a generous holiday allowance and commitment to continued professional development (CPD), flexible, hybrid working and more!
This is a fantastic opportunity for an ambitious individual who would like to work for a forward-thinking, open and honest organisation and make a real impact to the young people we work with. Please find our full recruitment pack on the link below.
If you have any questions about the role or would like to have a confidential chat, please contact James Axford, Recruitment Officer.
Ambitious about Autism is fully committed to equality of opportunity and diversity and we warmly welcome applications from all suitably-qualified candidates. We welcome applications regardless of race, colour, nationality, ethnic or national origins, religion or belief, sex, sexual orientation, gender reassignment, marital or civil partner status, pregnancy or maternity, disability, or age. All applications will be considered solely on merit.
Ambitious about Autism is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and successful candidates will be subject to an Enhanced DBS check. As part of our Safer Recruitment checks, an online search maybe carried out in line with Keeping Children Safe in Education.
The Safeguarding responsibilities of the post as per the job description and personal specification.
Whether the post is exempt from the rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 and the amendment to the Exceptions Order 1975, 2013 and 2021. This means that when applying for certain jobs and activities certain spent convictions and cautions are ‘protected', so they do not need to be disclosed to employers, and if they are disclosed, employers cannot take them into account. Further information about filtering offences can be found in the DBS Filter Guidance.
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!
Delphside Limited is entering an exciting phase of change, but is mindful of the challenges the mental health care and charity sector as a whole is facing.
To help mitigate this this, we are looking to enhance our Governance and control systems in terms of our financial and administration management.
The role is a temporary role (6-12 months) to help direct and support changes of financial systems, data control processes and to help ensure the current team, including our current Finance Manager, are supported with the implementation of a more up to date and effective way of working.
Ideally you will be a fully qualified accountant, but equally we would welcome applications from individuals who are qualified by experience or accredited qualification (e.g. AAT Level 4, ACCA/ACA qualified etc.) It is essential you have proven experience of delivering strategic leadership in finance, preferably (but not essentially) in the charitable sector and that you can deliver changes of processes and systems.
Knowledge of Sage and also XERO systems would be beneficial.
Main Responsibilities :
· Provide full review of current financial controls, identify and implement a new financial I.T./software system suited to service needs.
· Oversee the procurement, implementation and transition to the new financial I.T./software system once it is identified.
· The post holder will assist with the strategic planning and budget preparation for the organisation as well as maintaining the charity's financial accounting systems.
· To provide support to the Finance Manager by overseeing the preparation of the organisation’s accounts for audit in accordance with current accounting good practice and Charity Commission’s Standards of Recommended Practice (SORP)
· Lead, develop and support a small dedicated finance and administration team
· Long term financial planning and assisting the CEO with succession planning in the finance area of the service, including creation of a financial risk register.
· Assist in setting the annual budget and report on performance.
· Oversee timely production by the Finance manager of monthly management accounts and the annual statutory accounts.
· Ensure a robust financial control environment and ensure all treasury and Financial Governance management are in place, suitable and effective.
· The post holder will have responsibility to ensure the organisation is compliant with legal and financial duties associated with those of a Charitable Company reporting directly to the CEO and Board of Trustees.
· Provide proactive assessment of opportunities to deliver efficiencies in collaboration with department heads where necessary.
· Undertake internal audit of systems and processes in place to ensure good financial Governance.
Start date-a.s.a.p.
Are you a ‘creative accountant’? We are looking for a top-notch accountant who enjoys theatre and the wider arts scene. Working in a vibrant creative atmosphere, you will be the person keeping TRP on track financially, and making sure we fulfil the promise of our new business plan.
You will be a qualified accountant with experience of multi-million-pound organisations. As part of our Leadership Team you will be a strategic thinker and leader. You will be an excellent communicator, willing to share knowledge and support colleagues with clarity and honesty. You will have experience of running a finance team and be confident in the IT aspects of finance systems as well as having a more general understanding of IT infrastructures and cybersecurity.
If you share our values and believe that theatre can change lives, then we want to hear from you.
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!
Phoenix Futures have an exciting Remote opportunity for someone to join the Business Development team and help shape the future of specialist treatment for people recovering from addiction.
We encourage and welcome applications from people of all backgrounds and believe it is important to include people with lived experience to ensure the needs of the people we support are represented. We are committed to creating an inclusive working environment where everyone is free to be themselves and we ensure equity of opportunity
The Role
This is a work from home post and can be based remotely anywhere within the UK. There will be the need to travel to meetings in London occasionally and travel to our services across England and Scotland on an ad hoc basis.
As the newly appointed Business Development Finance Partner, you will work closely with the Head of Business Development and Director in identifying and evaluating new opportunities as well as working across the Organisation to support ongoing contract management and financial business management activities.
You will support our operational leadership across the UK to evaluate, monitor and review the financial aspects of new business opportunities, leading on financial elements of tenders and grants as well as contract management and risk appraisal processes.
The position provides an ideal opportunity for individuals with a strong finance background (qualified or part-qualified accountants) to develop and enhance their careers through transitioning into a business management role.
You will be part of a passionate and skilled Business Development team, supporting the vital work delivered by Phoenix Futures across the UK.
About You
To join us as Business Development Finance Partner, you will need:
- Proficiency in the use of Microsoft Excel
- Excellent literacy and report writing skills
- Experience of budgeting for tendering / contracting for services
- Excellent communication skills and ability to interpret and explain budgets and pricing to operational staff
- Qualified in or working towards a professional accounting qualification
- Empathy with the mission and values of Phoenix Futures
Please note, we will be assessing applications as they are submitted and may close this role should we find sufficient applicants with which to make our shortlist. As such, we would advise applying as soon as possible to avoid disappointment.
So, if you’re seeking your next challenge as a Business Development Finance Partner, please get in touch or apply today.
Your Rewards
- Salary of £34,400 pro-rata (FTE £43,500) working 30hrs across the week with flexibility that allows you to balance home and work
- Up to 8½% performance related pay annually
- 25 days’ annual leave pro-rata, plus Bank Holidays (increasing each year to a maximum of 30 days)
- Benefits including season ticket loan, pension scheme and life assurance
- Support through occupational sick pay, eye-care vouchers and regular wellbeing talks and activities
- Continuous training and career development via PXL our dedicated learning management system
- Access to a 24/7 Employee Assistance programme including telephone and online access
- A rewarding role with the opportunity to help us support people on their journey to recovery and change their lives for the better.
- We’ll ensure you get all the support you need to thrive and succeed in your role and find your place amongst our incredible and collaborative team.
The Team
The Business Development team are responsible for leading on new and emerging opportunities to support people with substance misuse issues – securing opportunities to deliver residential rehabilitation, community, housing and prisons services.
About Phoenix Futures
Phoenix Futures Group is a charity with over 50 years’ experience and a leading provider of drug and alcohol treatment. Our values are what define us and ensure we work to the highest standards. We believe in being the best, we are passionate about recovery, we value our history and use it to inform our future. Find out more on our website.
Interview Process
We want you to feel comfortable to be your best during the interview process, so that you can get to know Phoenix and we can get to know you. If shortlisted, you will be contacted for a short digital interview via Microsoft Teams in June.
Successful candidates will be selected for a face-to-face interview, for which there will be a psychometric assessment and aptitude test to complete, in the form of a systems task. All details will be provided in advance so that you can feel adequately prepared and we can support you with reasonable adjustments as required.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
London’s Air Ambulance
Finance Business Partner
Salary: £45,000 - £55,000 dependent on experience and qualifications
Permanent, flexible working
Hybrid working, 2/3 days a week in office
Office based Mansell Street
Closest Stations Tower Hill and Aldgate
London's Air Ambulance treats patients who experience critical injury in the capital and support them and their families on a road to recovery. This is only possible through close collaboration between London's Air Ambulance Charity, the London Ambulance Service (LAS), Barts Health NHS Trust (Barts), London's Major Trauma Centres and the wider Major Trauma Networks, to deliver groundbreaking care and save lives.
To deliver this service the Charity is split across two locations, with offices in Mansell St and in the Royal London Hospital.
The Charity has grown significantly in size and complexity over the last few years and we are now seeking a Finance Business Partner to support the Deputy Director of Finance to provide the charity's Financial Performance and Analysis function.
Reporting to the Deputy Director of Finance this post supports the provision of high quality financial reporting to assist budget holders, managers, directors and trustees. Acting as a finance business partner you will provide financial insights, analysis, and guidance to support decision-making and drive the financial performance of the charity.
Key areas of responsibilities;
- Stakeholder collaboration: Work closely with internal and external stakeholders, including finance and non-finance colleagues, to support strategic planning and decision-making.
- Financial reporting: Prepare monthly, quarterly, and annual financial reports for the charity, ensuring accuracy, timeliness, and compliance with regulatory requirements. Own the full life cycle of reports from build to delivery.
- Budgeting and forecasting: Assist the Head of Financial Performance & Analysis in the development of annual budgets and forecasts, collaborating with department heads to gather necessary information and oversee the consolidation and review of departmental budgets into a cohesive organisational budget.
- Financial analysis: Monitor actual performance against projections and conduct analysis to identify trends, variances, and opportunities.
- Systems accounting: Maintain and improve the charity's accounting systems and processes, ensuring data integrity and implementing new features or upgrades as required.
- CRM management: Work closely with the Head of Financial Accounting and Head of Data to ensure financial reporting requirements are adequately considered when managing the CRM.
- Advanced data analysis: Utilise tools such as PowerBl, Power Query, and advanced Excel functions to build reports, conduct in-depth financial analysis and provide actionable insights to support decision-making.
Who are we looking for?
- A formally qualified or part qualified Accountant
- Relevant experience in a finance business partnering, financial planning, budgeting and analysis.
- An excellent communicator who is able to influence at all levels within the organisation
- Ability to work on own initiative, assess priorities and be proactive.
Benefits for working at London’s Air Ambulance:
- Generous pension scheme with employer contribution rate up to 10%
- Generous annual leave allowance starting at 27 days plus bank holidays
- Health Insurance
- Eye care scheme and many more!
London’s Air Ambulance is fully open to sector experience. As such we welcome candidates from industry, charity or practice backgrounds.
Timetable:
Closing deadline: Tuesday 28th May
Interview w/c 3rd Jun
The Task Ahead: Finance Manager
As The Difference moves from its early start-up phase into the delivery of our 2025-30 strategy, our programmes and sector-influencing work are expanding to reach more schools and to deepen our impact. Alongside this growth, our team - and the operational function which supports them - is also growing.
As Finance Manager, you will be a key member of the Finance & Operations team. You will hold end-to-end responsibility for the finance function, from reconciliations to budgeting. You will decide where and how our existing processes could be improved, as well as developing new systems that will underpin our work as a larger and more established charity. You will be supported by the Director of People, Finance & Operations, as well as our external auditors.
The Difference is still a small and growing charity. This means that our work is fast-paced, our roles are broad, and there is a culture of being reactive and flexible, as the needs of the organisation evolve. If this sounds exciting rather than daunting, then this could be the role and team for you!
Areas of Responsibility
The Difference is looking for a Finance Manager to lead our finance function in the following ways:
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Oversee our internal bookkeeping, payment, and accounting processes, and improve these systems ongoingly.
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Lead on budgeting and forecasting across the organisation, supporting teams to predict income and expenditure and make sound financial decisions.
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Lead on the production of management accounting information, including internal monthly management accounts, quarterly reports for Trustees, and financial reports for investors.
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Lead on The Difference’s audit process, with external auditors.
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Work with the Development & Impact Manager to update fundraising pipelines, and ensure the availability of high quality income projections for Trustees.
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Support accurate budgeting and reporting for grant funding, including tracking spend of restricted funds.
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Support business planning by working with teams to model potential future work - e.g. costs of expansion of an existing programme; modelling potential new programmes.
Person Specification
Essential – We are looking for the following skills, aptitude and experience; though you may be stronger in some areas than others:
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Values – Your experience evidences shared values with The Difference (see below) and a personal commitment to our mission to improve life outcomes for vulnerable people.
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Finance experience, operational and strategic – Experience across all areas of finance, from accurate invoicing, payments and record-keeping, through to setting and managing budgets, financial modelling and forecasting, and working with external accountants or auditors.
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Finance process development – Experience of developing finance systems; the ability to recognise how processes could be continuously improved, and enact this improvement.
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Leadership of self and others – Confident in identifying skills or information gaps within your team, and drawing on the expertise of others to address these gaps. Able to show how you've continually grown your own skills and those of your team members so that together you can efficiently cover workload and plan ahead.
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Proactive problem-solving – Ability to thrive in a fast-paced start-up environment and to problem-solve: from rolling sleeves up and diving into detail to working collaboratively to build capacity.
Desired – You are more likely to be successful in your application if you have one or more of the following additional experiences:
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Accounting qualification and experience - Some form of accounting qualification and post-qualification experience.
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Early-stage charity/social enterprise experience – You may have specific experience growing charities or businesses for social good at the early or start-up phase.
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Experience of charity finances – You may have worked for or supported other charities, and have experience of working with philanthropic grants, charity accounting, and governance.
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Insight into schools – You may have experience working in the education sector, whether that’s through working for a business or charities that partnered with schools, or through working in a school yourself.
Why Work for The Difference?
Schooling isn’t working for the children who need it most. Every week in England 109 children – equivalent to three full classrooms – are permanently excluded. This is just the tip of the iceberg. Since the pandemic, school suspensions have risen significantly, as has persistent absenteeism. 1 in 5 children are missing more than 10% of their time in school. Children who are excluded or persistently absent are much more likely to already be experiencing vulnerability or disadvantage. They are more likely to live in poverty, have additional learning needs, suffer mental health challenges, or experience a lack of safety outside school. Certain ethnicities are also disproportionately affected, notably Gypsy Roma Traveller and black Caribbean children.
Exclusion and high rates of absence can have a dramatic effect on life chances. These young people are more likely to drop out of education or employment, become vulnerable to long-term mental ill health, or be at risk of criminal exploitation. The Difference believes that children and young people deserve better and that the education system has to change.
Our Organisation
The Difference is a young education charity, founded to change the story on lost learning. By 2030, we want rates of exclusion and absence to be falling nationally and for schools to be better equipped to support all children, including those who may be vulnerable. The Difference was born out of a year of research into school exclusions with think-tank IPPR. This research identified a lack of inclusion expertise in schools and proposed a new leadership development programme to fill this gap. In 2018, Difference founder Kiran hired the team who took this idea from concept to reality, beginning work with our first schools.
The Difference is now a 22-strong team delivering multiple school leadership programmes, alongside a growing research and policy arm. The team is supported by our Youth Advisory Board, made up of young people who have experienced exclusion and who provide their expertise and insights on how school inclusion work should be done. This work is needed more than ever. Effects of COVID-19, coupled with the spiralling cost of living, have substantially increased levels of vulnerability. Schools serving excluded pupils face under-funding. The Difference has had excellent early impact but there is work ahead to capture this, share learning with schools and policy-makers, and grow our capacity to lower exclusions across England.
Our Values
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High Expectations - We are ambitious for excellence from young people, colleagues and ourselves. We don’t believe in writing off someone’s potential because of their identity or experience of crisis.
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Strong Relationships - We prioritise genuine relationships over transactional interactions, and know that this requires deliberate relational practice. We see colleagues and partners as people first and their roles second; and know this greater trust allows us to take more risks, gain more feedback and have greater impact.
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Internalised Locus of Control - We work hard to reframe difficult situations to discover what we have within our power in terms of solutions. We take it upon ourselves to walk towards challenges and can take a high level of ownership and agency in our work/
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Pragmatism - We believe leadership means recognising current limitations and striving for improvements within and beyond them. We develop consensus and chart new ways forward, challenging false and extreme positions like “zero exclusions” or “no excuses”.
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Scientific approach - We take a diagnostic approach to unpicking causes of problems. We are loud and proud of our failures, recognising failing fast and often is key to finding the best solutions. We test solutions and are willing to use data and feedback to make adjustments and choose new directions.
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Not Squeamish about Structural Inequality - We believe patterns of inequality can and should be disrupted. We strive to be clear-eyed about these inequalities, and both the individual practice and system-changes required to address them. We push ourselves to overcome awkwardness in talking about this; and begin by acknowledging our own biases and blind spots.
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Asset-based - We work hard to avoid deficit thinking and aim to start with what’s strong, not what’s wrong. We are careful not to frame our colleagues and stakeholders - particularly young people and families – as victims but instead to recognise their agency.
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Wise selves - To both enjoy work and do their best, we want to make decisions and work with others in our “wise” - or regulated - selves. We also want to bring our compassionate self to those we work with, externally and internally, to support one another through challenging times.
How To Apply
To apply, please complete all sections of the application form by midnight on Sunday 19th May.
First round interviews will be held during the week beginning 27th May, over video call. Please indicate if you would not be available to attend an interview during this week.
If successful in this stage, second round interviews (including a task to be completed the same day) will take place on the week beginning 3rd June, at our office in Bethnal Green.
We are committed to building a diverse team and strongly encourage applications from under-represented groups in the charity sector such as people from black, Asian and minority ethnic backgrounds, LGBTQ+ people, people with disabilities, people with experience in the care system, non-graduates and first-in-family graduates.
As part of our commitment to fairer recruitment, all applications will be assessed with names and any protected characteristics redacted.
Recommended Reading
If you’d like to understand more about The Difference and what we are trying to achieve, we would recommend the following:
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The research which underpins our organisation.
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Our latest Impact Report, sharing our work in 2023
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
We are currently in an exciting period of growth as we upscale our delivery to enable more people to enjoy the benefits of cycling.
The Finance Officer is responsible for working within the core Wheels for All team to provide finance team support to the wider programme delivery and national staff team. By working with colleagues to maintain financial systems, accurate record keeping and undertake financial administration they will provide the support required to implement and improve the processes needed to maintain the accurate financial management systems which are crucial to supporting the charity’s mission. This role would suit someone with at least 2 years’ experience in a charity finance role, who has experience or knowledge of all the core accounts department processes and some understanding of different charity income streams. You might be studying for an accounting qualification (e.g. AAT or ACCA) or be qualified by experience. A training package may be available for an applicable accounting qualification.
Salary £25,000- £28,000 FTE, dependent on experience
Hours Full-time, 35 hours per week (1 FTE, will consider PT for the right candidate)
Contract Permanent
Location Warrington Head Office
Annual leave entitlement of 25 days
Application Process
Please apply by sending your CV and a covering letter explaining how you meet the requirements of the role , including ‘Finance Officer’ in the title. Alternative formats are also welcomed e.g. video or audio.
You don’t need to be a cyclist to apply for this role, but you do need to share our passion to deliver our services and enjoy making a difference to people’s lives.
Closing date for applications: Wednesday 15th May 2024 (midnight). If you have any questions or would like to have an informal discussion about the role, please email call 01 9 2 5 5 7 5 6 2 8 or visit our website
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Job Description
Summary of Job Purpose
The Business and Operations Lead plays a vital role in managing and developing the operational business functions of the organisation and supporting its charitable aims; working closely with the CEO to deliver and improve the organisation’s strategic planning, operational delivery, and budgeting/ finance processes. The postholder plays a vital role in ensuring that the day-to-day operations of the iHV run smoothly, with key functions:
- Leading iHV business and financial management, including accounting, budgeting, reporting, strategic planning and risk management.
o Work closely with the CEO, senior leadership team and our accountants to align financial and operational strategies.
o Manage financial controls, procedures, and systems.
o Collaborate with various departments, including external stakeholders, for effective budgeting and operational management.
- Leading iHV operations:
o Senior responsibility for administrative, legal, and compliance functions, ensuring smooth operations. This will include management of our Emsworth Office, IT and risks, supporting business planning and change management.
o Lead the operational change for a new Customer Relationship Management (CRM) system and website. iHV Project Lead working with the supplier, the Project Manager and a small team at the iHV to ensure that the project is delivered within the specified time, cost and quality parameters of the specification.
o Working closely with our part-time Head of HR, supporting the senior management team and line managers with HR matters, including recruitment.
o Line management responsibilities of designated staff in the corporate team, supporting business administration.
o Working with the CEO to ensure good governance of Board-related matters, collating Board papers and attending quarterly Board meetings.
Key areas of responsibility:
Business and financial management:
- Maintain and develop robust quality assurance processes for income and expenditure, working with our CEO and accountants, to ensure all financial and reputational risks are effectively managed.
- Ensure effective financial processes across the iHV, with systems in place for invoicing, managing iHV payments and standing orders, and chasing outstanding payments and debtors.
- Build departmental budgets, supporting leads with forecasting, budget tracking, monthly monitoring (management accounts are produced by our independent accountants) to inform workforce planning.
- Work with department leads to prepare budgets for tenders and project/ research grant applications, including determining when VAT is applicable.
- Process invoices, iHV card payments, direct debits, standing orders, expense claims forms and ordering of office supplies, with support from the Corporate Team Administrator.
- Support leads to manage contracting, invoicing and reporting to external funders in accordance with funder requirements. Ensure all new funding streams and other costs are accurately recorded by the accountants.
- Ensure management of the corporate member joiners to the organisation, including invoicing and setting up a process for re-invoicing.
- Work closely with the external accountants to provide information on monthly suspense, debtors, mis-postings and general queries in relation to iHV finance. Ensure the iHV’s reconciliation and remittance records are updated weekly.
- Ensure all financial documentation is available for scrutiny as required, including support for annual financial audit by independent auditors.
- Make recommendations, provide advice, and prepare strategic reports and briefings as required.
Operational Management and Governance:
- Support the CEO and department leads in managing human resources, risk management, quality assurance, operational change, and board functions.
- Support iHV business planning and the development of key objectives and priorities for the corporate Team (in partnership with the CEO and other leads within the corporate team).
- Oversee the operational needs of the Institute – supporting leads within the organisation with workflow mapping, business continuity and planning to support matrix working across the organisation.
- Recording and monitoring of business risks across the organisation to enable risk management, reporting to the Board and providing support in association with the CEO.
- Support the board, providing secretariat functions to board meetings, including ensuring all papers are provided on time, managing sensitive information, and taking board minutes.
- Work with the CEO to develop, coordinate and implement organisational policies throughout the Institute.
- Support the CEO with reporting to the Charity Commission/ Companies House and ensuring that the organisation’s charitable obligations are met. Work with external auditors to deliver the annual audits; and ensure that the relevant documentation is held in line with requirements, is available for external auditing, and the delivery of audit recommendations are tracked.
- Support Health & Safety risk management, ensuring risk assessments are in place, processes and policies are up to date, and staff are trained and informed with any changes.
Information Technology
- Management of robust administration and business support systems, including negotiation and management of IT agreements, subscriptions, licences and contracts as required, providing recommendations for improvements and efficiencies to the CEO.
- Facilities management of required IT and infrastructure to include details of equipment held and provision of Microsoft/ other required licences.
- Liaise and schedule work to be undertaken under external IT support contract.
- Lead operational change for new Customer Relationship Management (CRM) system and website – working with a dedicated project manager who has scoped our organisational requirements (almost completed), to finalise the invitation to tender (ITT), manage the procurement process, evaluate submissions with a small in-house change team at the iHV, and make recommendations to the board. The postholder will lead the project for the iHV, working with the supplier, the Project Manager and a small team at the iHV to ensure that the project is delivered within the specified time, cost and quality parameters of the specification and is robustly tested before launching.
- Information management and analysis to highlight issues/ risks and support decision making – work with Head of HR to ensure iHV compliance with GDPR.
Human Resources
- Management of our Emsworth office with line management responsibility for a small number of designated staff in the corporate team who support business management (currently the Corporate Team Administrator), supporting the delivery of team objectives within the iHV Business Plan.
- Support, motivate and develop staff, managing direct reports’ annual performance development review (PDR) and performance management, if required.
- Work closely with the Head of HR to make sure that good employment practices are universally embedded operationally within the iHV.
- Support staff recruitment and the induction of new staff; provide advice to staff on corporate policies and procedures and communicate changes.
- Support the Performance Development review process for the iHV, collating 360 feedback for iHV employees where requested, and maintaining records for annual PDR outcomes.
- Maintain oversight of the recording of annual leave with the Corporate Team Administrator, Head of HR, and department leads.
- Provide operational leadership and management for team awayday (leading a small team to plan this each year), to support team building and staff development.
Other:
- Have an excellent professional working relationship with colleagues to deliver corporate goals and objectives in line with iHV Vision and Values.
- Help at iHV conference and events, working with our Events Manager and overseeing the work of the Corporate Administrator to ensure that venues, travel, accommodation and materials are booked and delivered on time.
- To participate in all mandatory and individual training as required. To highlight their learning and development needs to the CEO on induction, at the annual PDR, and as needed, to ensure capability to deliver key role functions.
NB
▪ The above is only an outline of the tasks and responsibilities required of the role. You will carry out any other duties as may reasonably be required by your line manager.
▪ The iHV is an expanding and evolving organisation, as such the job description and person specification will be reviewed on an ongoing basis in accordance with the evolving needs of the wider team.
Person Specification
Qualifications (Essential)
- High level of numeracy, literacy, and IT skills.
- Degree in business administration or related field, or equivalent qualification/ postgrad evidence of additional training/courses undertaken.
- Programme Management qualification (PRINCE2, AGILE or equivalent).
Experience (Essential)
- Proven work experience as Operations/Finance Manager or similar role. Prior experience of strengthening organisational effectiveness.
- Significant experience of budgeting, financial management, contract management and forecasting.
- Experience of operational and staff management.
Experience (Desirable)
- Experience in the IT industry and/ or healthcare.
- Previous experience working for a membership organisation.
- Previous experience working for a charity.
- Experience of Charity Accounting
Skills, Ability, Knowledge (Essential)
- A self-starter with the ability to work on their own initiative, work within deadlines, managing multiple and competing tasks.
- Working knowledge and skills in the use of business and financial principles and systems.
- Excellent IT skills – experience of workingwith a range of IT systems and project software. Familiar with Xero, Stripe, PayPal, GoCardless, Asperato or related financial software systems including purchasing, invoicing, reconciliation, debt rectification and financial reporting.
- Outstanding organisational, strategic thinking and problemsolving skills – ability to anticipate and resolve problems before they arise and respond to sudden unexpected demands. The ability to analyse complex facts and situations and develop a range of options.
- The ability to communicate effectively, including excellent oral and written skills and the ability to negotiate on difficult and controversial issues including performance and change.
Skills, Ability, Knowledge (Desirable)
- Familiar with SalesForce, Customer Relationship Management (CRM) systems and their capabilities.
Personal Attributes (Essential)
- Commitment to teamworking, and respect and consideration for the skills of others. Personal drive, energy, and enthusiasm for new challenges.
Behaviours and Values (Essential)
- Commitment to and focused on quality, promoting high standards in all they do.
- Values diversity and difference, operates with integrity and openness.
Behaviours and Values (Desirable)
- Actively develops themselves and supports others to do the same.
Other (Essential)
- Ability to work flexibly to meet the needs of the role.
- Able to attend meetings and events around the UK as required.
- Flexibility in supporting other iHV administration requirements on occasions.
Other (Desirable)
- Interest in working in the charitable sector to improve children’s lives.
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!
Finance Business Partner
Salary: £42,000 - £49,000
Permanent, flexible working
Hybrid working, 3 days a week in office
Office based in Sutton
My client is a specialist education provider supporting schools across London and South England. As a Finance Business Partner, you will play a crucial role in supporting budget holders in their financial and strategic decision making. Working with a team of Assistant Finance Business Partners you will be responsible for the month end reporting cycle, periodic forecasting and yearly budget setting. Supporting a Regional Finance Business Partner, you will help translate financial information into insightful commentaries, and provide input into benchmarking, dashboarding and financial modelling as required.
Key areas of responsibilities;
- Lead and manage a team of Assistant Finance Business Partners and Finance Officers, including performance management, development, succession planning, sickness monitoring, etc.
- Lead the preparation of monthly management accounts pack (including income & expenditure, and balance sheet) to regular deadlines; specific duties will include: approve monthly journals, reconciliation of balance sheet accounts, income analysis and inter-company recharges.
- To actively collaboration with the wider finance team to maintain and champion the integrity of financial information, specifically purchase ledger for supplier invoices, commitments, expenses and petty cash; procurement for contracts; and assets accountant for capital expenditure and maintaining fixed assets.
- To support and enable budget holders with budget management, exercising considerable judgement, in particular with Principals, School Business Managers HR and staffing resources, to problem solve where
Who are we looking for?
- A formally qualified, part qualified or qualified by experience accountant with relevant experience of financial accounting gained in a large, complex organisation (this could be commercial, Not-for-Profit or practice)
- Good communication and interpersonal skills both written and oral, able to communicate effectively with finance professionals, senior management and trustees, and non-accountants to achieve cooperation and results
- Ability to manipulate data, analyse information, identify anomalies and extract pertinent information. Excellent attention to detail
My client offers hybrid working with established training and team practices to ensure full support and engagement at all times.
If you are looking to develop your career in not-for-profit finance or change sectors, then this is the position for you.
Are you a Systems Accountant looking for an exciting new hands-on opportunity? Have you got experience project managing systems implementations? Are you available immediately or on a short notice period? If so, read on…
My client, a leading charity is seeking an interim Systems Implementation Manager to select and implement a new finance system on a 10-month temporary basis with the possibility of extension.
This is a hybrid and part time role.
The main responsibilities of the interim Systems Implementation Manager are:
- Assisting in the selection of a new finance system
- Manage the implementation of the new system
- Training staff on the new system
- Liaising with internal and external stakeholders
My client is looking for:
- Qualified accountant or qualified by experience
- Experience of charity accounts is desirable but not essential
- Experience managing similar projects with strong project management skills
- Understanding of financial processes
Applications are under constant review and the post can close early if the right candidate is found. Please apply immediately if this role is of interest.
In our company values we aim for equity at all stages of the recruitment process, please let us know if we can do anything to make the process more accessible to you.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as the applications come in. Don’t miss your opportunity, apply now!
Head of Finance Business Partnering
Salary: £58,000 - £65,000
Permanent, flexible working
Hybrid working, 1/2 days a week in office
Office based in Central London
My client is a nation leading, medical, charitable organisation that provide support to individuals and their families suffering from this disorder, while also funding vital research. The Finance department is a valued part of the organisation and you will become part of a diverse and dedicated team, working in an environment where you can collaborate, be respected and thrive. You will be responsible for effective strategic financial management and planning, providing services of the highest standard and ensuring long-term financial viability. Working with the Head of Finance and the business partnering team to develop stakeholder engagement processes.
Key areas of responsibilities;
- Develop an in-depth understanding of the charity, its activities and how the finance business partnering team can support the achievement of our strategic objectives
- Alongside the Head of Finance, manage the budget and forecasts process for the charity
- Provide strategic business partnering directly to the research department and other teams
- To support the Head of Finance in the development of the financial plan in line with the Group’s operational plan and targets.
- Build financial capability and confidence across the charity helping to identify risks and opportunities
Who are we looking for?
- A formally qualified Accountant with relevant experience of financial accounting gained in a large, complex organisation (this could be commercial, Not-for-Profit or practice)
- Good communication and interpersonal skills both written and oral, able to communicate effectively with finance professionals, senior management and trustees, and non-accountants to achieve cooperation and results
- Ability to manipulate data, analyse information, identify anomalies and extract pertinent information. Excellent attention to detail
My client offers hybrid working with established training and team practices to ensure full support and engagement at all times.
If you are looking to develop your career in charity finance or change sectors, then this is the position for you.