Financial / Management Accountant / Business Partner Jobs
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.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as the applications come in. Don’t miss your opportunity, apply now!
At Independent Age, we believe that no older person should face financial hardship. That’s why, by 2027, our goal is to have improved the lives of one million older people. Our impact across policy, campaigning, information and advice, grant-making and partnerships improves lives by increasing the financial well-being of older people in financial hardship, enabling greater choice and independence in wider areas of life. We want to find talented individuals from diverse backgrounds to join us on this journey.
As the Head of Partnerships and Philanthropy, you will be the cornerstone of our partnership and philanthropy activities, creatively engaging with corporations, high-net-worth individuals, trusts, and foundations to build partnerships with purpose, to increase our reach and secure the vital income to deliver our mission. Your role extends beyond fundraising; you will be forging meaningful corporate partnerships, shaping a landscape where businesses contribute to improving the lives of older people in poverty. With your expertise, we aim to connect those in need with supportive services, transforming lives with compassion and targeted action.
With a proven track record in securing and implementing impactful corporate partnerships and major donations, you'll bring a wealth of knowledge and a passion for change to our organisation. As a member of our leadership team, your work will make a vital contribution to extending our reach, helping us to provide practical help to an increasing number of older people struggling with their finances. At Independent Age, your work will echo the ethos of 'partnerships with a purpose', uniting us with high-profile brands to achieve our mission and financial objectives.
Step forward and lead with purpose; together, we can uplift the lives of the older people living in financial hardship and inspire a community of support.
With a proven track record in high-value fundraising, including securing donations from major trusts, foundations, high-net-worth individuals, and businesses, you will have experience developing partnerships with high-profile brands and an understanding of the importance of ‘partnerships with a purpose’.
For full details on the role and requirements, please review the job description and person specification. If your experience doesn’t align perfectly with all of the criteria in the person specification but you do meet most of them and are excited about the role, we encourage you to apply anyway.
This is a full-time role, 35 hours per week, which you can choose to work over five days or a 9 day fortnight.
What it’s like to work at Independent Age:
We celebrate diversity at Independent Age and champion the differences that make each of us unique. We actively support and encourage people from a variety of backgrounds, experiences and skill sets to join us and help shape what we do. We aim to attract and retain a wide range of talent and create an environment where everyone can feel safe, protected, welcome and included.
We offer great benefits including 28 days annual leave plus public holidays, a generous pension scheme with life assurance, and fantastic learning and development opportunities. We also offer a number of enhanced leave provisions and benefits.
We know that a good work life balance helps us perform at our best and supports wellbeing. Flexible working hours and hybrid working is standard for all (those contracted to work in the office usually attend 1 day per week). But if you need a different form of flexibility, we are always happy to talk flexible working.
You can find out more about what it’s like to work at Independent Age here.
Application Process:
To apply, please visit our website to submit a CV and a Supporting Statement, detailing how your skills and experience meet the criteria within the Job Description and Person Specification (please do not hesitate to contact us if you have specific requirements and need support to apply in an alternative format).
To support our commitment to equity, diversity and inclusion our hiring managers use anonymous shortlisting. Therefore, please do not include your name, photo, or information to indicate your gender or age in your CV and supporting statement. Please do not omit dates of employment. Please ensure the title of any uploads does not contain your name.
Independent Age is committed to safeguarding and follows Safer Recruitment practices to ensure we are safeguarding those we work with. We therefore ask that you supply your full work history with explanations for any gaps in the application documents you submit and, if offered the post, we will require two employment references including your current or most recent employer. A Basic DBS certificate will be required for this role.
Closing date: 3 June 2024.
Interview Dates:
First round interviews to be held on 14 June 2024.
Second round interviews to be held on 21st June 2024.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Director of Finance and Resources
Together for Mental Wellbeing
£87,550
Full-time, permanent
London and remote
Together for Mental Wellbeing is the UK’s oldest mental health charity. Since 1879, we have believed that people experiencing mental distress have the right to live the life they choose and determine their own future.
We offer a wide variety of support services and the people we work alongside are at the heart of everything we do. We currently work with around 5,000 adults every month via 70 projects throughout England, but we aspire to reach many more people through our five year strategy.
Having just launched our new strategy for 2024-2029, we are excited about our future, and through the fantastic commitment and dedication of everyone who works at Together, we will achieve our vision of continuing to be a recognized charity leader in its field delivering high quality mental health, wellbeing and support services.
As our Director of Finance and Resources, you will play a critical leadership role in the ongoing transformation and financial sustainability of Together, ensuring the conditions for our future success. You will be a key advisor to the Chief Executive, the treasurer Trustee and the Board of Trustees in delivering our ambitions for the future, developing and driving innovative, up-to-date and well-planned corporate solutions that shape our Finance, ICT and estates and property management.
An experienced and qualified senior finance professional with strategic and operational level expertise, you will be a collaborative and inclusive leader, who will work across your functions and beyond to leverage the overall performance of the organisation. You will have significant experience of driving change and building, motivating and inspiring teams. You will be a rigorous, clear thinker who acts with integrity, personally promotes equality, diversity and inclusion and who understands that people who use our services are at the heart of everything we do.
We have a firm commitment to empowering a culture of equity, diversity, inclusion and belonging at Together for the people we work alongside in our services and for our workforce of staff and volunteers. We particularly welcome applications from people who identify as having a disability and those from Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic backgrounds.
Closing date: Monday 10th June
First interviews: Week beginning 17th June
Final interviews Friday 28th June
We are currently working with a London based Council to recruit an interim accountant for an initial period of 6 months. You will be supporting year end and the closing of accounts as well as working on some of the transformation that will be taking place
The successful candidate will be fully qualified, with great technical experience in a local authority setting, especially around the closing of accounts and year end. Experience is transformation/ change management work in a local authority setting is also required.
This role offers hybrid working with time in office to be once a week.
A quick application is encouraged. If you would like to apply please contact Charlotte Daly
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.
Finance Lead - Fundraising and CAA
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 fulfill a key Finance Lead role supporting the Fundraising and Communications, Advocacy, and Activism (CAA) directorates at Mencap.
This role will deliver high quality insight and financial management which informs decision-making and helps to ensure maximum impact from our fundraising income. As the Finance Lead for Fundraising and CAA you will play a pivotal role in ensuring the efficient utilisation of financial resources to maximise fundraising returns and ensure efficient spend which is aligned to strategic objectives.
Key Responsibilities:
· Prepare timely, accurate, and insightful management reporting for the directorates, facilitating informed decision-making and effective financial management.
· Lead financial planning processes and provide analysis, guidance and challenge to ensure the development of robust and credible plans.
· Identify risks and opportunities related to fundraising financial performance, providing strategic guidance to mitigate risks and maximize opportunities effectively.
· Support business development with financial scrutiny of tenders, fundraising bids, and business cases.
· Conduct fundraising portfolio ROI analysis and investment appraisal to optimize fundraising returns.
· Manage restricted reserves to ensure spend alignment with intended purposes.
· Provide external reporting to funders as required and act as the primary contact for annual report and audit queries.
· Ensure financial compliance with technical and regulatory requirements, including gift aid and Charity Commission guidance.
· Support the implementation of a new Fundraising CRM system scheduled to go live in April 2025.
· Line management to a Finance Business Partner, offering coaching, support, and career development.
What You Will Bring:
· A commitment to improving the lives of people with learning disabilities.
· Strong analytical abilities, attention to detail, and ability to communicate financial information effectively.
· Strategic thinking and the ability to prioritise conflicting priorities while effectively managing stakeholder expectations.
· Self-motivation and a desire to make an impact.
· Excellent collaboration skills, with the ability to build relationships across Finance and non-Finance areas.
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, non-profit or charity sectors.
· Experience providing Finance Business Partnering support at all levels up and including Director level within a complex organisation - ideally in fundraising or income generating business units.
· Knowledge of charity finance regulations and fundraising practices.
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.
My client is a prestigious organisation that seeks to support an integral part of UK’s medical profession. With a diverse business model they provide a huge range of services to its members and seek to influence NHS policy and direction for the benefit of all. The organisation is recruiting a Technical Accountant to play a pivotal role in the implementation of Microsoft Dynamics Finance and Operations.
- You will be Technical Accounting Lead for the development and transition to Microsoft Dynamics Finance and Operations from the current on-premise system. Due for delivery in mid-2025, your role will be to ensure that the D365 F&O system set up and internal control framework are delivered to accommodate the reporting requirements for a Charity.
- The implementation of Microsoft Dynamics D365 with its scope and functionality will allow the Charty to deliver on its ambitions to reach an international audience, it will be your role to ensure that the system can deliver and account for international transactions. Other technical area’s we will be looking to use your expertise will be in Investments and Pensions.
- As the Technical Accountant you will ensure the system build complies with current group reporting standards and will adapt to the upcoming changes to FRS 102. You will also provide assurance that the internal control environment within the D365 F&O system are robust, fit for purpose and will meet the external and internal audit requirements.
This post is an excellent career opportunity for a qualified Accountant who wants to have an influential role in a large transformation programme from the discovery phase all the way through to implementation.
Summary
- Strive for Excellence
- Show Compassion
- Respect others
- Collaborate
- Act with Integrity
- Ensure effective communications planning, processes, and staging calendar implementation
- Maintain good relationships with key stakeholders (Church Commissioners, Pensions Board), with a particular focus on Responsible Investment
- Monitor press coverage and distribute to all relevant internal contacts
- Respond professionally to media enquiries from news organisations, including the rapid development of agreed responses to media enquiries
- Proactively support and help prepare messaging ahead of anticipated media interest
- Support internal stakeholders in development and communication of their core messaging
- Proactively identify PR opportunities for the Church of England's National Investing Bodies
- Manage the relationship with the Ethical Investment Advisory Group, the Social Impact Investment Fund, the Giving Team, Parish Buying, and other internal stakeholders
- Build positive relationships with key financial and specialist journalists who cover the work of the National Investing Bodies
- Field media requests for interviews, photo calls, events, and similar
- Provide support with media training and photo shoots for internal stakeholders
- Take initiative in identifying and organising relevant speaking, conference and award opportunities
- Produce the Church Commissioners' annual report - liaising with internal stakeholders, collating and editing content, working with the design agency, and managing budget
- Maintain excellent relationships with external suppliers and design agencies
- Produce website content for relevant Church of England entities
- Work with the digital communications team to support with social media content for Church Commissioners and Pensions Board
- Manage the Church Commissioners' LinkedIn accounts, creating content and working with stakeholders to ensure consistent and timely content
- Deputise for the Head of Financial Communications as necessary
- Understanding of financial communications
- Experience of working with mainstream media
- Track record of delivering text to specification to tight deadlines
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills
- Good time-management
- Strong interpersonal skills
- Good attention to detail
- Existing network among journalists
- Journalistic or communications experience within a high profile organisation
- Interest in sustainable investment
- A salary of £56,833 plus age-related pension contributions between 8-15% of salary. We will also match any pension contributions you make up to an additional 3% of salary.
- 25 days annual leave (increasing to 30 days within 5 years) plus three additional days
- Flexible working hours and location, with an expectation of just 3 days per week in our office in Westminster
- Structured induction programme and access to a range of development opportunities including apprenticeships
- Access to Occupational Health, and an Employee Assistance Programme
- Opportunity to the Civil Service Sports & Social Club, and get involved in a range of staff networks, groups and societies
About Cycling UK
Cycling UK promotes and encourages people to get into cycling; from cutting pollution, to making us healthier happier, Cycling UK are passionate about the benefits cycling offers to people and the planet. Following the launch of a brand new strategy in April 2024, they are seeking a Head of Strategic Financial Planning & Control to support in the continued growth of the charity.
Cycling UK works to campaign for cycling-friendly policies, advocating for cyclists’ voices on issues such as safety, active travel schemes and funding, the benefits of cycling on the environment, and much more. Cycling UK are also passionate about enabling cycling for all, running critical programmes to address the barriers to cycling people can face, to ensure cycling is inclusive and accessible to all.
During the last 5 years Cycling UK has experienced significant growth and development as cycling has assumed a greater role within the active travel sector and the post-pandemic recovery. As part of the next phase of implementing a new organisational strategy with a view to further growth, Cycling UK are looking for a finance leader to support in day to day running of our finances as well as driving longer-term transformation and strategic ambitions.
The Role
Reporting into the Chief Operating Officer, the Head of Strategic Financial Planning & Control is a pivotal position within the Cycling UK team. Working as part of the leadership team within Cycling UK, this is an important role in leading the finance team and working to enhance the organisation’s longer-term strategic vision.
- Line management of the finance team members (4 reports) including supporting the development of all direct reports;
- Leading the preparation and implementation of a multi-year plan and annual budget aligned with our business planning and programme management processes;
- Lead budget and forecast reviews at appropriate intervals in the financial year to ensure accurate and timely forecasts of income and expenditure;
- Collaborating with the Chief Operating Officer, Senior leadership team and Heads of department to develop and embed a robust finance strategy which supports the delivery of our organisational strategy and aligns with our growth aspirations;
- Develop and maintain an effective system of financial controls that ensure the safeguarding of charity assets and the reliability of the financial statements;
- Lead the preparation and production of the annual report and accounts;
- Oversight for all accounts payable and accounts receivable processes and ledgers;
What’s in it for you?
- Salary £51,000 - £57,000 per annum
- Hybrid working: 1-2 days per week in Guildford or London office
- Annual leave of 25 days + Additional Christmas leave + Bank holidays. There are also options to buy an additional week’s leave.
- Parental leave of 12 weeks of full pay followed by subsequent enhanced rate.
- Enhanced sick pay & sabbatical leave options.
- Access for all staff to an extensive Employee Assistance Programme
- Flexible working arrangements on offer including the possibility to work condensed or 0.8 hours (please enquire for further details)
Your Background:
You will be CCAB qualified or equivalent
You will have previous staff management experience
You will have natural strengths in finance business partnering, being able to communicate financial matters to non-finance stakeholders
You will be self-motivated and ambitious, passionate about supporting in Cycling UK’s growth
Prior experience in the not-for-profit sector is desirable though not essential.
Please note that Cycling UK are open to candidates who are looking for a ‘step up’ into a Head of Finance role, as such applications from candidates who do not have all the experience displayed in the role profile are very much encouraged to apply.
My client is a prestigious organisation that seeks to support an integral part of UK’s medical profession. With a diverse business model they provide a huge range of services to its members and seek to influence NHS policy and direction for the benefit of all. The organisation is recruiting for a Systems Accountant to lead a high-profile, end to end transformation programme.
- You will be the Finance Transformation Lead during the development of and transition to Microsoft Dynamics Finance and Operations from the current system. The project is due for delivery in mid-2025 and you will work closely with the third-party implementation team and the project team responsible for delivering the statement of work.
- As the Transformation Lead you will be involved in a number of projects associated with this programme, one project will be to support the Finance team and Implementation team in the development of the internal control framework, Chart of Account, Ledger set up, authorisation routings and other data structures for a D365 F&O environment. A second on-going project will be the development of a suite of Financial Reports and Dashboards across all Finance functional areas.
- A key deliverable for you as the Transformation Lead will be to bring together all the key stakeholders and design a system that delivers the end to end transactional processes and reporting structures and controls required for an organisation that has charitable status.
- The post provides a fantastic opportunity for a qualified Systems Account to deliver a large, organisation-wide Finance Transformation Programme from the discovery phase all the way through to implementation. This programme will add value to the organisation and it’s members for years to come and you can play a part key part in leaving this legacy.
If you are a qualified Systems Accountant with Microsoft Dynamics and Power BI experience and have delivered an end to end programme of a similar nature please apply.
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.
Job Description – Senior Corporate Fundraising Manager – Account Management
Reporting to: Director of Fundraising
Location: London
Contract: Permanent
Hours: 35 Hours
Salary: £50,823-£53,498 (We normally offer a starting salary at the start of the range)
We welcome applications from all backgrounds.We are a Disability Confident Employer that welcome disabled applicants and provide reasonable adjustments.
About FareShare
FareShare is the UK’s national network of charitable food redistributors, made up of 18 independent organisations. Together, we take good quality surplus food from right across the food industry and get it to nearly 8,500 frontline charities and community groups.
The food we redistribute is nutritious and good to eat. It reaches charities across the UK, including school breakfast clubs, older people’s lunch clubs, homeless shelters, and community cafes. Every week we provide enough food to create almost a million meals for vulnerable people.
Every year, more than three million tonnes of food go to waste in the UK, enough for 7 billion meals. Meanwhile, the cost of living crisis is driving millions into food insecurity.
We are fortunate to benefit from the support of major retailers, the media, ambassadors and a groundswell of public engagement. As a result, there has never been a more exciting time to join an organisation at the heart of public consciousness.
FareShare’s Strategy & Vision
Our vision is of a UK where ‘No good food goes to waste’.
Our mission is to use surplus, fit-for consumption food to feed those who are vulnerable in the UK by supporting frontline charitable organisations that tackle the cause and not just the symptoms of poverty.
Our values run through everything we do and set out a clear framework for us to approach our work: passion, ambition, respect, collaboration, and focus.
The role
Main areas of responsibility
This is a key senior role within the Fundraising Directorate, collaborating closely with the Senior Corporate Manager – New Business the Fundraising Leadership Team to grow income and awareness from corporate sources.
The key focus of the role will be:
- Successfully lead the Corporate Partnerships account team to develop and deliver on our ambitious growth strategy across existing partnerships.
- Working collaboratively with the Senior Corporate Manager – New Business to deliver a seamless strategy, focussing on the transition of partners through business planning and maximising lifetime value.
- Being accountable for excellent stewardship and account growth plans specifically deepening of engagement to maximise ROI and longer term strategic partnerships.
- Using data, insight and innovation techniques to implement diversify income streams from existing partners.
- An active member of the Fundraising Leadership Team, managing key cross organisational projects on behalf of the whole fundraising directorate.
Responsibilities
- Lead a team to maximise immediate potential with existing partners and generate a more diverse portfolio of strategic and sustained income over time.
- Maintain oversight of our partnerships portfolio and pipeline and work with the Senior Corporate Manager – New Business to ensure a cohesive and collaborative transition of new partners into account management.
- Manage forecasting and expenditure for the Corporate Partnerships team providing updates, mitigation plans and horizon scanning for income opportunities. .
- Lead the team to develop and deliver cultivation and stewardship programmes for partners with clear growth targets
- Lead Corporate Fundraising representation across the organisation, to deliver projects and build new opportunities to help the FareShare deliver on its strategy.
- Establish effective and impactful relationships with current partners to ensure appropriate relationships are in place and effectively managed at all levels.
- Oversee account allocation across the team to maximise account growth and optimise return on investment.
- In collaboration with FareShare’s Operations Team ensure accurate monitoring and project progress on restricted funding.
- Provide inspiring and motivating leadership and coaching of direct line reports
- Work with the Senior Managers across fundraising to maximise cross selling opportunities, from employees to Major Donor prospects.
- Develop, monitor and maintain systems and processes including Salesforce database, financial accounting, account management plans, contracts and due diligence
- Work within legal and charity guidelines
- Manage and work within FareShare’s IT systems and data guidelines
- Undertake training and skills development and keep up to date with the changing requirements of the role
- Undertake other duties as required
- Lead the development of new corporate engagement and income generating opportunities to enhance partnerships, deepen relationships and provide value to the organisation.
In addition, you will be expected to:
- Work within legal and charity guidelines
- Manage and work within FareShare’s IT systems and data guidelines
- Undertake training and skills development and keep up to date with the changing requirements of the role
- Undertake other duties as required
Person Specification
Essential Criteria
- Demonstrable experience of delivering six-figure partnerships at scale in either a charity or commercial environment
- Experience of providing excellent relationship management and stewardship resulting in increased levels of financial support from partners
- Experience of managing multi-faceted strategic partnerships that deliver both financial and non-financial impact to an organisation
- Experience of using data and insight to inform business planning and decision making
- Ability to develop strategy and translate into an operational delivery plan
- Experience of leading a team and people management
- Target driven, proactive and creative in meeting the needs of complex multi-faceted partners
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability influence and negotiate at all levels internally and externally
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills with the ability to convey complex and compelling funding proposals
- Exceptional project management skills, capable of leading the delivery of multiple complex projects on time and to budget
- Proven experience of financial forecasting and managing financial risks and opportunities
- Experience of working in a third sector environment
- Evidence of an up to date understanding of charity legislation, best practice and regulatory requirements, including large scale CRM campaigns
Competencies and behaviours
- A commitment to Equal Opportunities
- An understanding of, and sympathy with FareShare’s mission
- Flexibility of approach and ability to work in a team and across other internal teams.
Benefits
- Hybrid / Flexible working, with regular UK travel
- 28 days’ annual leave + 8 bank holidays
- Employers pension contribution
- Employee Assistance Program
- Interest free bicycle purchase loan scheme
- Season ticket loan
Systems Accountant (15-month Fixed Term Contract)
Hours: 35 hours per week (flexible working required, occasional travel within the UK with overnight stays).
Do you want to lead a major finance transformation project?
Are you a Systems Accountant looking to play a pivotal role in our exciting Finance Transformation project. In this 15-month fixed-term contract, you'll be the Group's Finance Transformation Lead, guiding us as they transition from their current on-premise systems to Microsoft Dynamics 365 Finance and Operations (D365 F&O).
Supportive Benefits as Systems Accountant you will receive will include:
- Generous Time Off: Up to 32 days annual leave, plus bank holidays and additional days for Christmas break (pro-rated for part-time).
- Supportive Leave Options: Maternity, adoption, paternity, and shared parental leave packages.
- Invest in Your Wellbeing: Award-winning health and wellness programs.
- Continuous Learning: Broad range of learning and development opportunities.
As Systems Accountant you will:
- Lead and collaborate with the Finance team, Project team and third-party implementer to design and implement a robust D365 F&O system.
- Develop the internal control framework, Chart of Accounts, and other data structures for the new system.
- Work closely with the implementation team to create a suite of financial reports and dashboards.
- Support data cleansing, conversion, and migration from our current systems to D365 F&O.
- Lead the development and standardisation of future-state end-to-end Finance processes for the Group.
- Train the Finance team on D365 functionalities and reporting.
- Utilise your expertise to support the wider Finance team throughout the project
Your experience and attributes will include:
- To be a qualified accountant with experience in a similar role.
- Proven experience with D365 F&O and Power BI.
- Excellent project management and communication skills.
- The ability to build strong relationships and collaborate effectively across teams.
- A meticulous eye for detail and a commitment to accuracy.
The closing date for applications is June 1st, please submit your CV to [email protected] if your qualifications, experience and attributes align with this role and I will be in touch for an initial conversation should your application be sucsesfull.
We want you to have every opportunity to demonstrate your skills, ability and potential; please contact us if you require any assistance or adjustment so that we can help with making the application process work for you.
The successful candidate will work with the Head of the Gambling Action Lab (GAL) and the Senior Research Officer to bring together a handful of representatives from financial services firms to explore ways to reduce gambling-related financial harms. They will build and maintain stakeholder relationships and play a key role in facilitating group discussions with financial services representatives. This exciting role will also involve driving and promoting the work and visibility of the GAL, and planning and delivering a programme of events to promote our work.
This is an exciting time to join the organisation. We are a growing team, and with momentum building to address gambling-related harms, our work has never been so vital. In this position, you will play an important role in helping us to further understand the links between money, mental health problems and gambling harms and work with firms and stakeholders to develop practical solutions that lead to real change.
The full-time equivalent salary is either £41,283 at the Senior Officer level or £32,915 at the Officer level.
This role can be offered as London-based or remote (with twice-monthly travel to the London office) and either full-time (37.5 hours over 5 days) or part-time (minimum 30 hours over 4 days a week).
The closing date is 9am Monday 20 May.
We welcome candidates who have lived experiences of mental health problems, gambling harms or financial difficulty.
We are working hard to create an organisation where Equity, Diversity, Inclusion and Belonging are baked into our culture. We welcome applications from everyone, regardless of age, gender, identity, race, class, sexuality, disability or any other characteristic. What’s important isn’t your level of education or the opportunities you have had – it’s about you and how you seize the opportunities ahead of you.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Would you like to be part of an organisation changing lives through work?
A royal College is seeking a passionate and detail-oriented Technical Accountant to join their team for a 15-month fixed-term contract.
In this role, you'll play a pivotal role in transforming the RCN's financial systems, ensuring a smooth transition from the current on-premise Open Accounts systems to Microsoft Dynamics Finance and Operations (D365 F&O).
Supportive Benefits as Technical Accountant you will receive will include:
- Generous Time Off: Up to 32 days annual leave, plus bank holidays and additional days for Christmas break (pro-rated for part-time).
- Supportive Leave Options: Maternity, adoption, paternity, and shared parental leave packages.
- Invest in Your Wellbeing: Award-winning health and wellness programs.
- Continuous Learning: Broad range of learning and development opportunities.
- As the Group's Technical Accounting Lead, you'll be responsible for:
As Technical Accountant your day-to-day tasks will include:
- Leading the development and implementation of D365 F&O, ensuring it meets the reporting needs of our unique structure - a Trade Union, Charity, and Trading Subsidiaries organisation.
- Configuring the system to accommodate our partial exemption VAT rules and support international transactions.
- Working collaboratively with the project team, Subject Matter Experts (SMEs), and external implementers to ensure a robust and compliant financial system.
- Designing and testing the system's functionality for accurate reporting, encompassing Group Statutory Accounts, Quarterly VAT Returns, Trade Union Returns, and Business-as-usual (BAU) requirements.
- Guaranteeing the system's internal control framework adheres to external and internal audit standards.
- Transferring your knowledge to the BAU team for a seamless transition.
As Technical Accountant you will be/ have:
- A qualified accountant (ACA, ACCA, CIMA, or equivalent).
- Extensive experience with technical accounting principles and a strong understanding of Group reporting standards (UK GAAP and upcoming FRS 102).
- Proven experience in implementing and configuring accounting systems (preferably D365 F&O)
- Meticulous attention to detail and a commitment to accuracy.
The closing date for applications ais 1ST June, please submit you CV to if your qualifications, skills and experience aligns with this role and you would like to be considered for submission.
We want you to have every opportunity to demonstrate your skills, ability and potential; please contact us if you require any assistance or adjustment so that we can help with making the application process work for you.