Development officer jobs

About the role

Sitting within the Finance and Operations team and reporting to the Head of Finance & Operations, the Senior Finance Manager plays a pivotal role in ensuring the organisation’s financial integrity and health. An exciting mix of management accounting, business partnering, financial analysis and process improvement, this hands-on role oversees the full financial cycle of the Design Council — from managing day-to-day processes and payments to delivering accurate financial reporting, insightful analysis and supporting programme delivery and strategic decision-making.

Working closely with internal budget holders and programme managers, external accountants and other service partners, the Senior Finance Manager ensures sound financial planning, robust controls and clear, timely reporting that drives transparency and accountability across the organisation.

They will be proactive in identifying opportunities for continuous improvement of financial processes and systems, utilising technology and data in supporting efficiency and transparency in everything we do.

The Senior Finance Manager is a confident, detail-focused finance professional who thrives in a dynamic environment and enjoys both the technical and collaborative aspects of financial management. They will bring strong analytical skills, excellent communication, and a proactive and creative approach to problem-solving and managing data and systems.

Key responsibilities

The role includes the following responsibilities:

Providing high quality finance business partnering 

• Meeting with programme managers and other colleagues on a regular basis to track latest estimates of project budgets and resourcing

• Generating meaningful insights to support data-driven decision making

• Supporting colleagues with general finance queries including expense management and invoicing

Delivering process excellence through service partners 

• Managing the day-to-day delivery of external service partners for accounting and book-keeping processes, including weekly bank reconciliations, credit card reconciliations and monthly journal management

• Managing monthly payroll processes including the external payroll provider, payroll journalling and pension management

 Procure to pay process 

• Liaising with third-party vendors for confirmation of banking details and/or any invoice queries/disputes

• Reviewing approved supplier invoices and manage supplier invoice postings

• Managing weekly payment runs, including payment journals and related controls

• Reviewing and posting employee expense claims including credit card transactions
• Posting client sales invoices

 HMRC processes 

• Ensuring accurate coding of VAT transactions including Domestic/EU/International classifications

• Quarterly processing of VAT Return, calculating irrecoverability in accordance with resource allocation rules to business and non-business activity

• Management of all payments, submissions and liabilities to HMRC on a monthly, quarterly and annual basis

• Ensuring compliance with HMRC regulations including liaising with external advisors where required

Financial reporting and analysis 

• Timely and accurate production of monthly management accounts

• Production of monthly financial forecast (P&L and cash flow)

• Regular analysis of margin and resource allocation, utilising data to generate actionable insights

• Provide first-level analysis across financial reporting (P&L, cashflow) to support Head of Finance & Operations provide clear information and narratives for Senior Management, board and committee reporting

• Work closely with Head of Finance & Operations on the annual budgeting process

Process & systems ownership and improvement 

• Process owner for the Microsoft Business Central system and connected applications

• Leading on the identification of opportunities to improve finance-related processes, systems and controls with a focus on achieving “right first time” outcomes and “one source of truth” for data

• Support Head of Finance & Operations with ensuring finance systems and connected applications keep pace with technological change and remain fit for purpose

Financial controls and compliance 

• Ensuring compliance with all financial controls set out in the organisation's Financial Framework, Financial Procedures and Schedule of Authority

• Ensuring robust and complete records are kept across all financial processes to ensure all regulatory obligations are met

• Ensuring audit process is fast, efficient and maintains the confidence of auditor, colleagues and the Board of Trustees

About you

The role requires a hands-on, flexible financial professional, used to working in a fast-paced dynamic environment and willing to learn and grow in the role.

You are confident managing the broad range of finance-related activities within a small charity and understand the power of data to support business decision-making and organisational outcomes.

You are tech-savvy, and confident working with systems and manipulating datasets to generate insights and drive action.

You understand the importance of maintaining robust financial controls as well as timely and accurate management information.

You are an experienced business partner with the ability to drive financial engagement across the organisation. You are also organised and confident delivering process improvement and service quality both individually and through external partners.

Skills & Experience 

• Qualified or part-qualified finance professional eg AAT/CIMA/ACCA/ACA/CIPFA.

• Experienced finance business partner, with proven track record of providing quality finance support and advice to colleagues, particularly non-finance colleagues.

• Excellent financial accounting and reporting knowledge including UK charity SORP, accounting for grants, charity VAT rules and unrestricted vs restricted funds.

• Confident user of accounting software packages and working digitally, preferably with working experience of Microsoft Business Central.

• Confident and effective at delivering quality outcomes through external service partners.

• Experience of improving and developing systems and processes.

• Experience of maintaining a robust financial control environment.

• Experience of working with auditors and other external advisors such as tax and legal.

• Broad understanding current audit, tax, treasury and other regulatory requirements.

• Confident user of MS Excel and preferably also PowerBI.

You will also be 

• Able to work at pace and sometimes to tight timelines.

• Confident and skilled communicator across a range of stakeholders, verbally and in writing.

• Empathetic, pragmatic and adaptable, with a solutions-mindset.

• Hands on in your attitude and ability to find flexible solutions.

• Proactive and take ownership of issues through to resolution.

• Curious and open to new ideas and ways of working.

• A team player but also confident working on your own.

• Resilient and comfortable with navigating through change.

• Aware of the rewards and challenges of working in the not-for-profit sect

Are you looking for a dynamic and rewarding role working for an organisation with the feminist agenda at the core of its ethos? Then Advance Charity could be the career choice for you!

We are looking for a Loss & Bereavement Specialist Worker

Salary: £27,000- £32,000 pro rata

Location: Advance Headoffice Hammersmith & Women’s centres across London, with co- location at HMP Bronzefield

Hours: 21 hours per week

Contract: Fixed Term – March 2027

This post is open to female applicants only as being female is deemed to be a genuine occupational requirement under Schedule 9, Paragraph 1 of the Equality Act 2010.

Please note: Any offer of employment will be made subject to references, confirmation of the right to work in the UK, and satisfactory enhanced DBS check. This role is also subject to Police Vetting.

About us

Advance is an award-winning and innovative women-only organisation, established in 1998, providing emotional and practical support to women and girls survivors of domestic abuse and supporting women with short-term sentences to reduce offending. We believe in empowering women and girls to lead safe, non-violent, equal lives so that they can flourish and contribute to the community.

We are a community-based organisation who lead in best practice approaches to supporting women in their local community. We achieve this by being available to meet and support women in local settings and at our women’s centres, and by working in close partnership with other agencies.

Our values are to listen and support, to empower and respect, collaboration, innovation, and accountability.

About the role:

This is an ideal post for someone with experience and interest in bereavement work, looking to join a forward thinking, new service. This is also a great chance to be working alongside the Healthcare & Education Department within HMP Bronzefield and be part of a prison services team in Advance.

Using a trauma informed approached, the Loss & Bereavement Specialist will conduct a person-centred assessment to understand the extent of the client’s emotional needs and the impact of loss due to imprisonment or contact with the criminal justice system whilst also identifying practical and specialist needs. They will work with women to develop a support plan, ensuring they are equipped with information and knowledge about how to navigate possible changes in circumstances related to her children’s care and offer crisis intervention and support during acute phases of loss/bereavement.

The Loss & Bereavement Specialist Worker will liaise with the Prison Healthcare team, OMU, visits team and the Family Support Officer to facilitate interactions between women and their children/family members, particularly considering support is in place after visits and that the women’s emotional needs are met in custody and community via our Women’s centres.

The Specialist Worker will create a link between prison and the community, helping women to navigate support services and to positively re-integrate into their community upon release. The role will combine a casework- based approach, along with a signposting and advice service for the women. They will be based in the community and will provide a drop-in service in HMP Bronzefield to support women who are close to release.

A car may be desirable for this role, though not essential.

About You:

To be successful as the Loss & Bereavement Specialist Worker you will need the below experience and skills:

Experience of working with bereaved individuals and providing grief counselling including knowledge of various therapeutic modalities relevant to grief counselling

Comprehensive understanding of the grieving process and experience of working with bereaved and loss as well as knowledge of traumatic and complex grief/loss.

An understanding of violence against women and girls and its links to women in the criminal justice system.

Proven ability and experience as a caseworker delivering trauma responsive interventions which support resettlement and rehabilitation of vulnerable people in the criminal justice system whether in the community or in prisons

Knowledge and understanding of the requirements of managing a caseload including maintaining and updating records, remaining focused on action plan goals, and keeping to deadlines

How to apply:

Please submit your up-to-date CV with a supporting statement. Please note that only applications made via the job advert on the Advance careers page, and those that include a cover letter will be considered.

Closing date for applications: 3rd May 2026
Interviews are taking place w/c 4th May 2026

*Advance reserves the right to close the advert early, or on the appointment of a candidate.

What we can offer you - Employee Benefits:

• An exceptional 30 days of paid holiday per year (pro rata for part time), PLUS public holidays on top (that's nearly 40 days paid holiday per year!)

• Additional days off to celebrate International Women’s Day, and for religious observance and moving home

• Perkbox - an employee discount platform where you can receive free rewards as well as take advantage of savings on clothes, groceries, travel, leisure and more

• Pension scheme

• Enhanced maternity/adoption provision

• Access to our Employee Assistance Programme

• Employee eye-care scheme

• Clinical supervision for front line staff and first line management roles

• Refer a Friend Scheme - £250 for each referral who passes probation

• Organisation wide away days

• Thorough induction and training

• Career development pathways

**************************************************************

Under the Equality Act 2010, we are required to make any reasonable adjustments. If you have a disability as defined under this act and/or have special needs, please email the Talent Acquisition Team via the Advance website and will aim to make the necessary arrangements to accommodate your needs.

Diversity, Inclusion and Equal Opportunities

We are committed to providing equality of opportunity and actively seek to recruit people from groups underrepresented in our current team. We have policies and processes in place to ensure that all employees are offered an equal opportunity in recruitment and selection, promotion, training, pay and benefits.

Safeguarding

Advance is committed to safeguarding and creating a culture of zero-tolerance of harm and expects all staff, including volunteers to share this commitment. We believe all individuals have the right to live their life free from violence and abuse and the right to feel and be safe. We have a suite of safeguarding policies, procedures and practice guidance, accessible to all staff, which promotes safeguarding and safer working practices across all our services and activities. When we recruit staff, we follow rigorous safer recruitment practices, this involves carrying out pre-employment checks including references, Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) checks, and identity checks. We ensure all staff undertake mandatory safeguarding training relevant to their role and responsibilities, to empower them to be competent and feel confident in recognising and responding appropriately to safeguarding issues and promote wellbeing.

• Would you like to be part of a retail team that are community based, offer amazing choice and genuine sustainability?

  Look no further – join us as a Sales Assistant in Devizes

  This is a part time role working 14 hours a week in one of our busy clothing stores. Our stores are fast-paced and trade 7 days a week. This role requires flexibility to work weekends and bank holidays on a rota basis. This contract is for 9.15 to 17.15 over 2 days per week, additional shifts may be available to cover annual leave.

  What does this role involve?

  As a Sales Assistant you’ll be at the very heart of our retail operation. This is not just a standing behind the till or filling shelves type of role, we’re looking for someone who will deliver a first class customer service experience. It’s a fun, fast-paced environment where no two days are the same and everyone works as a team.

  Every day is different in charity retail, as well as working on the till or sorting donations, you can expect to:

  • Engage with customers, providing exceptional service and promoting our charity’s mission
  • Organise and merchandise donated stock creatively to maximise sales potential
  • Collaborate with our E-Commerce team to maximise online sales
  • As a Keyholder, you’ll be the go-to person when there isn’t a manager on duty, keeping the store running and ensuring our customers have a great experience. You’ll need to be 18+ years old to apply for this role.

  Please note, this role can be physically demanding and will involve moving a high volume of donation bags.

  You will be given lots of autonomy in your role and will strive to continually build your knowledge of BHF.

  What are we looking for?

  • Previous retail experience isn’t essential. What truly counts is your passion, energy, and ability to deliver the very best customer service.
  • You’ll be confident within a team environment and comfortable guiding the activity of volunteers on the shop floor
  • Able to work well under pressure and on your own initiative in a dynamic and fast-paced environment
  • Attention to detail in everything you do
  • Positive, creative, confident, customer service focussed and passionate about sustainability
  • You’ll be comfortable with tech, able to use a Till, PC, Smartphone and e-mail with ease.

  What’s important to us?

  At the British Heart Foundation (BHF) we offer a huge range of new and used quality furniture, clothing, jewellery and more, available in store and online.

  Since 1961, British Heart Foundation has been at the forefront of research that has helped to halve annual deaths from cardiovascular disease in the UK. But our work is needed more than ever.

  In addition to raising funds for the BHF, we connect with our local communities and help reduce clothing and furniture waste across the UK. With over 700 stores we make a huge environmental impact by preventing around 70,000 tonnes of unwanted items going to landfill every year. We receive 1.6 million items donated to our home stores and 9.8 million bags of donated items and will continue to build upon our reuse agenda in the years to come.

  Belonging at BHF

  BHF values the diversity of our communities and is committed to creating an inclusive environment where everyone feels respected and valued. By fostering a culture of inclusion, we believe we are better equipped to achieve our mission of helping people have a healthier heart for longer. 

  Why join the BHF?

  We have a strong culture of internal progression and will actively support you to develop your career.

  Our generous staff benefits include:

  • 38 days annual leave (plus the option sell leave)
  • Holistic support leave of up to 10 additional days off each year
  • Enhanced family policies (maternity, paternity and adoption leave)
  • Wagestream - early access to your wages
  • 25% staff discount
  • Health cash plan (Dental, Optical, Therapies, etc)
  • Access to a 24/7 Virtual GP and Employee Assistance Programme (EAP)
  • Pension with employer contribution of up to 10%
  • Cycle to work scheme
  • Discounts on gym memberships
  • Discounts with a wide range of retailers

  Ready to apply?

  To apply, please follow these simple steps:

  1. Click the “Apply” button below.
  2. You’ll be seamlessly redirected to the BHF Careers page.
  3. Complete the application form, submit your CV and upload your employment history.

  What do I need to know? 

  Inclusivity Matters: We’re committed to fairness and consistency. As part of this commitment, we use anonymous CV software during the application process

  Act Swiftly: Early applications are encouraged. We’ll be reviewing submissions throughout the advertising period and may close the advert early

  Sponsorship: Please note that we are unlikely to be able to sponsor applicants in respect of this role due to the role not meeting the minimum salary criteria to be eligible for sponsorship.

  Should you need any adjustments to the recruitment process, at either application or interview, please contact a member of the Recruitment team.

• Would you like to be part of a retail team that are community based, offer amazing choice and genuine sustainability?

  Look no further – join us as a Sales Assistant in Bowness

  This is a part time role working 20 hours a week in one of our busy clothing stores. Our stores are fast-paced and trade 7 days a week. This role requires flexibility to work weekends and bank holidays on a rota basis.

  What does this role involve?

  As a Sales Assistant you’ll be at the very heart of our retail operation. This is not just a standing behind the till or filling shelves type of role, we’re looking for someone who will deliver a first class customer service experience. It’s a fun, fast-paced environment where no two days are the same and everyone works as a team.

  Every day is different in charity retail, as well as working on the till or sorting donations, you can expect to:

  • Engage with customers, providing exceptional service and promoting our charity’s mission
  • Organise and merchandise donated stock creatively to maximise sales potential
  • Collaborate with our E-Commerce team to maximise online sales

  Please note, this role can be physically demanding and will involve moving a high volume of donation bags.

  You will be given lots of autonomy in your role and will strive to continually build your knowledge of BHF.

  What are we looking for?

  • Previous retail experience isn’t essential. What truly counts is your passion, energy, and ability to deliver the very best customer service.
  • You’ll be confident within a team environment and comfortable guiding the activity of volunteers on the shop floor
  • Able to work well under pressure and on your own initiative in a dynamic and fast-paced environment
  • Attention to detail in everything you do
  • Positive, creative, confident, customer service focussed and passionate about sustainability
  • You’ll be comfortable with tech, able to use a Till, PC, Smartphone and e-mail with ease.

  What’s important to us?

  At the British Heart Foundation (BHF) we offer a huge range of new and used quality furniture, clothing, jewellery and more, available in store and online.

  Since 1961, British Heart Foundation has been at the forefront of research that has helped to halve annual deaths from cardiovascular disease in the UK. But our work is needed more than ever.

  In addition to raising funds for the BHF, we connect with our local communities and help reduce clothing and furniture waste across the UK. With over 700 stores we make a huge environmental impact by preventing around 70,000 tonnes of unwanted items going to landfill every year. We receive 1.6 million items donated to our home stores and 9.8 million bags of donated items and will continue to build upon our reuse agenda in the years to come.

  Belonging at BHF

  BHF values the diversity of our communities and is committed to creating an inclusive environment where everyone feels respected and valued. By fostering a culture of inclusion, we believe we are better equipped to achieve our mission of helping people have a healthier heart for longer. 

  Why join the BHF?

  We have a strong culture of internal progression and will actively support you to develop your career.

  Our generous staff benefits include:

  • 38 days annual leave (plus the option sell leave)
  • Holistic support leave of up to 10 additional days off each year
  • Enhanced family policies (maternity, paternity and adoption leave)
  • Wagestream - early access to your wages
  • 25% staff discount
  • Health cash plan (Dental, Optical, Therapies, etc)
  • Access to a 24/7 Virtual GP and Employee Assistance Programme (EAP)
  • Pension with employer contribution of up to 10%
  • Cycle to work scheme
  • Discounts on gym memberships
  • Discounts with a wide range of retailers

  Ready to apply?

  To apply, please follow these simple steps:

  1. Click the “Apply” button below.
  2. You’ll be seamlessly redirected to the BHF Careers page.
  3. Complete the application form, submit your CV and upload your employment history.

  What do I need to know? 

  Inclusivity Matters: We’re committed to fairness and consistency. As part of this commitment, we use anonymous CV software during the application process

  Act Swiftly: Early applications are encouraged. We’ll be reviewing submissions throughout the advertising period and may close the advert early

  Sponsorship: Please note that we are unlikely to be able to sponsor applicants in respect of this role due to the role not meeting the minimum salary criteria to be eligible for sponsorship.

  Should you need any adjustments to the recruitment process, at either application or interview, please contact a member of the Recruitment team.