Financial accountant jobs in London

Finance Manager

Salary: £40,000-£45,000 per annum (depending on experience)

Contract: Permanent, full-time, 35 hours per week (part-time hours considered)

About the role

Use your finance skills to help keep the UK’s churches open and in use. Come and join a small team at the National Churches Trust and work alongside the Head of Finance and the Finance and Governance Officer by managing the charity’s day-to-day financial operations, ensuring accuracy, compliance, and timely reporting.

We’re looking for someone who can work collaboratively and who is detail orientated. This pivotal role in the charity provides the financial backbone that supports decision‑making and organisational stability. If you enjoy bringing order, clarity, and momentum to finance operations – and want your work to support the conservation of some of the nation’s most important buildings – we would love to hear from you.

Benefits

As a member of staff, you will have access to our employee benefits programme, managed by HSF, which offers a health plan, access to counselling and legal support, and a discount programme for benefits such as gym membership and personal accident cover. You will also have access to free communications events, resources and mentors through our Charity Comms membership. A ten per cent pension contribution, as well as additional time off between Christmas and New Year.

About the National Churches Trust

We want to keep the UK’s wonderful collection of church buildings well maintained, valued and in use. Working on the ground in all four nations, we support churches of all denominations. Our vision is to see open churches thriving at the heart of communities.

Our mission

• We Speak Up: churches are valued and supported
• We Build Up: churches are well maintained, adaptable and in good repair
• We Open Up: churches are sustainable, open and welcoming support

Our values

• Being straightforward in responding to others’ needs
• Providing support that makes a difference
• Joining forces to achieve greater impact
• Driving change that brings our vision closer

To find out more about this role and to apply, please visit our website via the Apply button.

Closing date: Sunday 15 March 2026.

Interviews: Tuesday 31 March 2026 | Westminster, London.

Head of FP&A | 6 - month FTC | £70,000 - £75,000 | London | Hybrid

For a charity in London, we're recruiting an interim Head of FP&A for a 6-month contract. Reporting to the Director of Finance, the Head of FP&A will manage a small team and will have leadership of the internal reporting processes, providing strategic advice to the SMT, and lead a continuous improvement programme. The Head of FP&A will design, implement, and stabilise finance processes across planning and forecasting, performance reporting, KPI management, capital and cash management, cost analysis, and process improvement.

Main Duties:

• Lead the annual budgeting and forecasting cycles
• Own the monthly performance management process and lead presentations of financial results with the Executive Board
• Define and report on performance and Finance team KPIs
• Lead the financial reporting requirements for external Grant and Donor Funders
• Oversee capital management and maintain robust rolling cash flow planning and reporting
• Manage the cost and income allocation processes and finance risk management processes
• Drive finance system engagements and automation initiatives
• Maintain the Chart of Accounts and all finance policies
• Provide ad-hoc support to the Finance Director on statutory accounting and compliance and implement and own the risk management and audit programme
• Lead, motivate, and manage a new Finance team and act as the SMT business partner, building finance capacity across the organisation

Person Specification:

• Proven FP&A leadership including managing and coaching a small team
• Experience of continuous improvement across FP&A processes
• Experience of designing, implementing, and stabilising finance processes
• Ideally experience from the Not for Profit or Charity / Grant Funded sector
• building financial models and tools with advanced Excel knowledge
• Experience of identifying improvement and optimisation opportunities
• Proactive, confident, and able to partner different stakeholder groups

________

As an employer, we are committed to ensuring the representation of people from all backgrounds regardless of their gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, race, religion, ethnicity, age, neurodiversity, disability status, or any other aspect which makes them unique. We welcome applicants from all backgrounds to apply and would encourage you to let us know if there are steps, we can take to ensure that your recruitment process enables you to present yourself in a way that makes you comfortable.

Your new company
A medium-sized, London-based charity.
Your new role
Reporting to the Finance Director, you will lead the organisation's FP&A function. This is a crucial role within the organisation as it is responsible for providing strategic advice and insight to the SMT, and leading on the continuous improvement programme. The anticipated duration of the role is 6 months+. To start ASAP. Hybrid working: 1-2 days per week.
What you'll need to succeed
You will be a qualified Accountant with strong experience as a Head of financial planning and analysis. A mixture of commercial and charity background would be preferred.
What you need to do now
If you're interested in this role, click 'apply now' to forward an up-to-date copy of your CV, or call us now.
If this job isn't quite right for you, but you are looking for a new position, please contact us for a confidential discussion about your career.

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Strategic Projects Accountant | 6 - month FTC | 60,000 - 63,800 | London | Hybrid

For a charity in London, we're recruiting an interim Strategics Project Accountant to focus on delivering a portfolio of key finance projects over a 6-month period to strengthen financial management and support strategic decision-making. This role focuses on high-profile strategic finance projects to ensure strong financial governance, improved systems and processes, and robust financial analysis across fund accounting, investment appraisals, and the implementation of improved finance tools and methodologies.

Main Duties:

• Delivery of Strategic Finance Projects: lead and deliver a programme of high-priority finance projects, ensuring delivery and engagement to a range of stakeholders
• Strengthening Finance Systems and Processes: reviewing existing financial processes, controls and systems usage to identify gaps and inefficiencies
• Work with Finance team to embed best practice and ensure system integrity and support improvements across Dynamics 365 Business Central
• Financial Analysis, Modelling and Reporting: produce financial modelling, costings and analysis to support bids, business cases and strategic projects
• Prepare high-quality financial information for senior leadership and Board-level reporting
• Provide fund accounting expertise, ensuring correct reporting of restricted and unrestricted funds
• Partner with project leads and senior stakeholders to provide robust financial advice

Person Specification:

• Fully qualified (ACA, ACCA, or CIMA)
• Experience in restricted and unrestricted funds
• Ability to deliver finance projects and process-improvement projects
• Experience in financial systems audit, process review and strengthening financial controls
• Experience providing financial support for bids, business cases and projects
• Experience in charity, not for profit or public sector organisations

________

As an employer, we are committed to ensuring the representation of people from all backgrounds regardless of their gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, race, religion, ethnicity, age, neurodiversity, disability status, or any other aspect which makes them unique. We welcome applicants from all backgrounds to apply and would encourage you to let us know if there are steps, we can take to ensure that your recruitment process enables you to present yourself in a way that makes you comfortable.

The Finance Manager will support the delivery of Theatres Trust’s strategy, working with the CEO and Head of People, Operations and Finance to create accurate and accessible financial reporting, and provide clear figures to inform budgetary updates. They will work across the staff and shape best practice of financial governance across the organisation.

Reporting to the Head of People, Operations and Finance, and working closely with the CEO, the Finance Manager has overall responsibility for the consistent delivery of the financial accounting and administration systems of The Theatres Trust and The Theatres Trust Charitable Fund (two separate entities). This includes maintaining robust, transparent and efficient financial administration and monitoring systems that ensure compliance with the relevant regulations and operational parameters for the work of both entities.

This post offers the successful candidate the opportunity to develop their career, and to join the organisation during an exciting time of internal transformation where they will play an integral role in supporting the team with a new finance system while shaping relationships with financial management across the organisation.

The role is being offered on a part-time basis of 21 hours per week, spread across at least 3 days per week.

Deadline for applications: 10am on Monday 9 March 2026

Our partner, a respected international development organisation, is seeking a qualified Finance Manager to lead the financial management and oversight of a large, multi-country donor-funded project. The postholder will ensure timely, accurate and compliant financial accounting, reporting, and donor compliance, while supporting strong financial management across the wider programme portfolio.

Responsibilities

• Lead on the financial management, planning and reporting of a multi-country project, ensuring transactions are accurate and compliant with donor and organisational requirements.
• Oversee budgeting, forecasting, cost recovery and co-financing, and maintain up-to-date financial data in grant management and tracking systems.
• Prepare and deliver timely internal and donor financial reports, ensuring consistency between internal records and external submissions.
• Monitor project and portfolio expenditure, analysing variances and providing actionable insights to senior management and programme teams.
• Strengthen financial controls and compliance frameworks, including development of tools, manuals and checklists to ensure adherence to donor and internal policies.
• Support audits (donor and statutory), maintaining trackers for audit actions and disallowances, and ensuring audit readiness.
• Review and approve partner budgets, sub-grant agreements and financial reports, ensuring compliance with donor terms and promoting financial capacity building.
• Provide technical support and training to field teams and partners on donor regulations, financial management, procurement and reporting standards.
• Collaborate with programme teams to align financial management with programme delivery and results.
• Contribute to the continuous improvement of financial systems and processes across the organisation.
• Occasional international travel may be required (approx. 1–2 trips per year).

Requirements

• Qualified accountant (CCAB or equivalent) with experience managing finances for complex, large-scale donor-funded projects; experience working with UN Agencies and the World Bank is highly desirable.
• Strong experience in budgeting, forecasting, grant management and donor reporting; familiarity with institutional donor requirements highly desirable.
• Proven experience in financial controls, audit preparation, and compliance for multi-grant, multi-country programmes.
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to communicate complex financial information clearly to non-financial colleagues.
• Strong interpersonal and stakeholder management skills; able to build effective relationships across diverse teams and cultures.
• Proficient in Excel and financial systems, with strong numeracy and attention to detail.
• Fluent written and spoken English.
• Ability to work under pressure and manage competing priorities effectively.

This is a London-based role with hybrid working (minimum two days per week in the office). Applicants must have the right to work in the UK.

Senior FP&A Business Partner: £65,000 - £72,944 | Permanent | London | Hybrid | Full Time or 0.8 FTE

We're recruiting a Senior FP&A Business Partner (full-time or o.8 FTE) for a London University. Reporting to the Head of FP&A, the Senior FP&A Business Partner a data-driven, technical role providing expert financial analysis, complex financial modelling, and finance business partnering to the Leadership Team and is a key role in providing insightful analysis enable informed decision-making. Using the new Oracle EPM system, this role will also lead month-end, budgeting, forecasting and annual planning along with continuous improvement of finance systems and processes.

Main Duties:

• Support the Head of FP&A with financial analysis continuous improvement, financial modelling, and enhancements to reporting platforms
• Deputise and support the Head of FP&A with technical leadership of the Oracle EPM system, identifying improvements to the system to enhance output quality
• Own and train up-to-date documentation, reference information and finance processes across forecast and budget cycles
• Maintenance and improvement of the Tuition Fee Model, leading monthly forecasting providing income reporting
• Leading continuous improvements to Student Number Planning within Oracle EPM and contributing to its forecasting
• Financial planning and commercial insights to support business plan, highlighting risks to improve financial performance and sustainability
• Leading on the analysis of financial information to improve decision-making
• Set and manage expectations for month-end, budget cycles, forecast cycles and year-end
• Stakeholder Engagement - identify approaches to enhance stakeholder experience and continually challenge traditional ways of working.
• Supporting statutory data returns and the budgeting and forecasting cycles

Person Specification:

• CCAB qualified accountant (ACA, ACCA, CIMA) with extensive experience building and maintaining financial models
• Extensive experience with financial reporting tools and building and maintaining complex reporting outputs
• Expert in making sense of complex data for decision-making
• Experience of developing and implementing financial systems (i.e., Oracle)
• Ideally experience working within Higher Education and with multi-stream income modelling

________

As an employer, we are committed to ensuring the representation of people from all backgrounds regardless of their gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, race, religion, ethnicity, age, neurodiversity, disability status, or any other aspect which makes them unique. We welcome applicants from all backgrounds to apply and would encourage you to let us know if there are steps, we can take to ensure that your recruitment process enables you to present yourself in a way that makes you comfortable.

We are seeking a Finance Officer with excellent numerical skills and attention to detail, and good inter-personal skills to join our friendly Finance Team at Yeldall Manor. This is a fantastic opportunity for someone with a passion for helping others to join a Christian organisation dedicated to supporting men in their journey of recovery from addiction to drugs or alcohol.

As Finance Officer, you will support and deputise for the Finance Manager in all aspects of the finance role including Accounts Payable and Accounts Receivable, bank and cash reconciliation and the processing of donations (please see the Job Description for more details). You will also support our residents in the management of their money and benefits and accompany them to relevant appointments. A driver’s licence is essential for this role.

You will have relevant accounting/bookkeeping qualifications e.g. AAT Technician Level and have experience of financial management, ideally in the not-for-profit sector. You will be a quick learner, able to manage multiple priorities and enjoy working as part of a small team that has a real impact upon people’s lives.

Yeldall Manor is a Christian organisation, and this role requires a committed Christian faith to meet the occupational requirements (in accordance with Schedule 9 of the Equality Act 2010). We ask all staff to engage with and support our residents in their recovery journey, offering encouragement in both practical and spiritual matters.

This is a full-time, permanent position (40 hours per week) although 32 hours would be considered for the right person. You will work as part of a small, friendly team within the Finance & Fund-Raising office, located in a beautiful rural setting outside Reading. Free lunch is provided daily with staff and residents. Remote working is not applicable for this post.

If you're excited about this opportunity and feel you have the skills to help support the work we do, we’d love to hear from you. Please submit your CV along with a cover letter explaining your suitability for the role as outlined in the job description. For an informal discussion regarding the role, please contact Noelene Bradley at Yeldall Manor.

We look forward to hearing from you!

Finance Manager at Reading Students’ Union 

Location: University of Reading, Whiteknights Campus, Reading, Berkshire 

Salary: £ 36,596 - £45,653 depending on experience

Contract: Permanent - Full time, 35 hours a week which can be condensed into 4 days

A role where you can innovate and make a real impact!  

About Reading Students’ Union 

We are a dynamic, student-focused organisation dedicated to empowering students and enhancing their university experience. Our vision is to be a place for everyone; we inspire and empower students to change the world. Check out our exciting new strategy.

The Role: Finance Manager 

As Finance Manager, you will be at the heart of Reading Students’ Union’s Finance team, providing senior operational leadership and expert financial support to ensure the Union operates efficiently, transparently, and in line with its charitable purpose, values, and legal obligations. 

You will be the trusted expert on the Union’s finances. You will be overseeing management accounts, statutory accounts, payroll, and financial systems and will be a key business partner to senior leaders, budget holders, and elected student officers. Working closely with the Director of Finance, you will help build a strong culture of effective financial management across both charitable and commercial activities, ensuring financial decisions always reflect our mission, vision, values, and ethics. 

You will be the line-manager of the Finance team, drive continuous improvement, support strategic delivery, and confidently deputise for the Director of Finance when required. 

What you’ll do:  

Financial Reporting & Data-Driven Insight 

• Ensure the accuracy and timeliness of all key financial reports to support informed decision-making. 
• Prepare monthly management accounts and annual final accounts. 
• Design, maintain, and analyse KPI reports to monitor financial health and operational efficiency. 
• Respond promptly and accurately to requests for financial data and insights, including Board reports. 

Financial Planning & Business Partnering 

• Collaborate with the Director of Finance to develop and implement long-term financial planning aligned with strategic objectives. 
• Act as a trusted partner for commercial strategy, providing insights on income generation and subsidiary operations. 
• Support annual budgeting and reforecasting processes, ensuring robust financial oversight. 

Operational Finance Management 

• Oversee day-to-day financial operations, including invoice processing, payment runs, journal preparation, and reconciliations. 
• Manage cash flow and reserves to ensure financial stability. 
• Maintain aged debtor and creditor records and reconcile balance sheet accounts (prepayments, accruals, PAYE, NIC, payroll control). 

Systems, Controls & Compliance 

• Control the operation of the SU’s accounting system and ensure completion of month-end and year-end procedures. 
• Oversee payroll processing, ensuring accuracy and timeliness. 
• Develop and maintain accessible financial procedures aligned with best practice and audit recommendations. 
• Ensure compliance with financial legislation, governance frameworks, and statutory reporting requirements (VAT returns, Charity Commission, Companies House, HMRC). 

Risk, Governance & Assurance

• Maintain an accurate and live risk register in collaboration with the Director of Finance. 
• Implement robust internal financial controls across the organisation. 
• Support the Finance & Risk Committee and ensure adequate insurance coverage and asset management. 
• Work confidently within governance frameworks, providing assurance to senior leaders and Trustees. 

Leadership & Collaboration 

• Line-manage the Finance team, fostering a culture of accountability and high performance. 
• Provide training and guidance on financial processes and best practices. 
• Build strong relationships with internal stakeholders and external partners, including auditors and insurers. 

About You  

Essential 

• AAT qualified or part‑qualified accountant (or willing to work towards). 
• Significant experience as a Finance Manager or in a senior finance role.
• Advanced Excel skills (creating data, analysing data, manipulating data)
• Strong numerical, analytical, and problem‑solving skills. 
• Organised, adaptable, and able to manage competing priorities in a busy and fast-paced environment. 
• Excellent communicator, confident in explaining financial information to non‑finance colleagues. 
• Confident people manager with the ability to coach, mentor, and develop others. 
• Passionate about using financial insight to support effective decision‑making. 
• Evidence of ongoing CPD or professional development. 
• Proven experience in: 
  • Producing monthly management accounts, budgets, forecasts, and cash flow reports. 
  • Managing day‑to‑day finance operations, including invoicing, payments, reconciliations, and payroll. 
  • Business partnering with budget holders and senior leaders. 
  • Leading the development of financial processes and controls to strengthen governance, efficiency, and effectiveness. 
  • Working within governance frameworks and applying good financial controls. 
  • Building strong relationships with internal stakeholders and external partners. 

Desirable: 

• Experience working in a charity, education, or student-focused environment. 
• Knowledge of charity VAT requirements and governance frameworks. 
• Experience supporting Boards, Trustees, or Finance & Risk Committees. 
• Knowledge of EPOS, stock control, or electronic payment systems. 

Why Join Us? 

• Inclusive and supportive team culture 
• Flexible working options 
• 35 days annual leave including Christmas and Easter closure days 
• Professional development opportunities 
• Unique working environment in the heart of a vibrant Student’s Union, set on a stunning, green campus. 

Ready to make bold change happen? Ready to lead the way?  

Join us and help shape the future of student life at Reading Students’ Union. 

Committed to equality, celebrating diversity, and embedding sustainability—building an inclusive workplace and a brighter future for all. 

SANE is seeking an experienced Finance Manager to support the effective day-to-day financial management of the charity and help ensure our mental health services are financially well supported.

This is a hands-on, operational role working closely with the Chief Operations Officer and Senior Management Team. The Finance Manager will be responsible for maintaining accurate financial records, producing clear financial information and ensuring strong financial controls are in place.

This role would suit someone who enjoys practical finance work, values accuracy and organisation, and wants to use their skills in a purpose-driven charity.

Key responsibilities:

Manage day-to-day finance operations, including income, expenditure and bank reconciliations

Prepare monthly management accounts and support budget monitoring

Maintain accurate financial records in line with charity accounting requirements

Support payroll processes and liaise with external providers

Prepare information for audits and work with external auditors

Support finance-related reporting for trustees, funders and senior managers

Ensure clear financial procedures and strong internal controls are followed

About you:

You will have proven experience in a finance or accounts role, ideally within the charity or not-for-profit sector. You will be confident working independently, while also supporting colleagues across the organisation with finance-related queries.

You will be highly organised, detail-focused and comfortable managing competing priorities. Strong Excel skills and experience using accounting software are essential, along with a practical and solutions-focused approach.

A commitment to SANE’s values and an interest in supporting mental health work are essential.

We are now looking for a Finance Officer to join us on a full-time basis, working 35 hours per week for a 12 month fixed-term contract to cover a period of maternity leave.

The Benefits

- Salary of £31,960 - £38,675 per annum
- 25 days' annual leave per year, plus bank holidays and additional leave over Christmas
- 7.5% employer pension contributions
- Enhanced maternity, paternity, and adoption pay
- Cycle-to-work scheme
- Employee protection scheme (life, critical illness, income protection)

This is a rewarding opportunity for an AAT qualified finance professional with strong accounts receivable experience to join our globally respected organisation.

You’ll play a vital role behind the scenes, ensuring the financial foundations are strong enough for our teams to undertake critical work on climate change, biodiversity loss and global inequality.

What’s more, you’ll gain valuable exposure to international financial operations, enjoy flexible hybrid working and contribute to a mission that goes far beyond the numbers.

So, if you’re ready to develop your expertise within a purpose-driven organisation, we’d love to hear from you.

Your Role

As a Finance Officer, you will support healthy, responsible finance across the organisation by managing accounts receivable processes.

Specifically, you will ensure that all funds owed to us are collected and recorded accurately and on time. Managing the end-to-end AR process, you will track incoming payments, maintain accurate records and conduct reconciliations to resolve discrepancies.

You will prepare aged debtor reports, follow up on outstanding balances and contribute to process improvements that enhance cash flow stability and reduce debtor days. You will also oversee staff expenses and credit card management, ensuring claims are compliant, accurately coded and processed efficiently.

Alongside weekly multi-currency bank reconciliations, you will support month-end and year-end processes, audit preparation and continuous improvement initiatives across finance operations.

Additionally, you will:

- Reconcile funder accounts and resolve unallocated or misposted payments
- Process international payments and manage foreign exchange considerations
- Administer the credit card portal in line with organisational policies
- Prepare debtor and cash flow reports for review
- Support tax reporting, compliance checks and donor financial reporting
- Act as a key contact for AR and expense-related queries

About You

To be considered as the Finance Officer, you will need:

- To be AAT qualified or possess equivalent experience
- Proven experience in accounts receivable and staff expense management
- Strong experience in cash receipt processing and debt collection
- Experience working with financial systems and accounting software
- Familiarity with multi-currency accounting and international payments
- Proficiency in accounting software and strong Excel skills
- Excellent organisational skills and the ability to prioritise a varied workload
- High accuracy and attention to detail
- Strong written and verbal communication skills
- Analytical and problem-solving abilities

The closing date for this role is 9th March 2026. However, the role may close early if we have the right candidate.

Other organisations may call this role Accounts Receivable Officer, Finance Officer, AR Officer, Credit Control Officer, Finance Administrator, Accounts Technician, Accounts Junior, Bookkeeper, or Accounts Assistant.

IIED is a Global organisation that serves the Global Majority. We are committed to equity of opportunity, to being fair and inclusive, and to being a place where all belong. We therefore particularly encourage applications from candidates who are likely to be underrepresented in IIED’s workforce, including members of minority groups and those with lived experience of the work we do. Even if you don't satisfy all the criteria, we still encourage you to apply, as we will offer training and development to upskill the right candidate for the role.

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER (CEO)

Location: Mostly at the Saïd Foundation office in central London, with some scope for remote working.   Occasional international travel to the Levant region where deemed safe.

Responsible to: The Chairman and Board of Trustees.

Line management: Scholarships Programme Manager, Financial Controller, Finance and Programme Administrator.

Salary: £80,000 - £85,000 pro rata.

Job type: Part-time (three days a week), permanent. 

ABOUT THE ROLE

We are looking for an experienced organisational manager, who will mentor our small and highly motivated team and bring proven expertise around financial and people management and governance as well as of building relationships with different stakeholders and providing strong accountability to charity trustees.   You will have an understanding of the Levant region of the Middle East, a commitment to bridge building and respect across cultures and a conviction that education can change lives for the better, create enlightened and effective leadership and benefit wider society.

Our outgoing CEO originally came to the UK as a Saïd Foundation Scholar to study at Oxford University and has worked for the Foundation for over six years.  He is leaving to return to Syria.  We are looking for an experienced manager to carry on his work in leading our team, maintaining close relationships with our Trustees, partners and students and ensuring that the Foundation’s programmes are run to the highest standards. 

ABOUT THE SAÏD FOUNDATION

The Saïd Foundation was established as a non-sectarian and non-political charity in 1982 by Wafic and Rosemary Saïd to bring positive and lasting change to the lives of children, young people and the wider community with a focus on the Levant region of the Middle East and on the UK, and on education as a powerful tool to make change.  It is governed by a Board of Trustees and the Board’s Student, Projects, Audit and Investments Committees.  Khaled Saïd has just become Chair of the Board. 

Since 1984, our longest-standing programme, the Scholarships Programme, has offered opportunities to outstanding individuals with leadership potential to be drivers of positive change within our target countries of Syria, Jordan, Lebanon and Palestine. It brings these change agents to the UK to study for Master’s degrees at exceptional universities and maintains close contact with them during their studies and beyond.  Our amazing community of over 700 alumni have gone on to become outstanding leaders in many fields and to build bridges and respect across cultures. 

The Foundation’s founder, Wafic Saïd, is also the founder of Oxford University’s Saïd Business School, now one of the world’s leading business schools.  The Saïd Business School Foundation (SBSF), also an English charity, was established in 1998 to support the development of the School in its pursuit of excellence. Its Strategic Development Fund  provides grants in support of initiatives that will have strategic value to the development of the School.  SBSF is funded and administered by the Saïd Foundation. 

The Foundation’s humanitarian work has responded to the shifting needs of the region over immensely challenging times.  Since 2011, it has focused on supporting Syrian refugee communities in Lebanon and Jordan through grants to major international non-governmental organisations.  Most recently, it has provided support for Gazan children orphaned by the destruction of their homeland.  Before the conflict in Syria began, the Foundation ran a capacity-building programme across the country for those working to support Syria’s disabled children. It helped to set up a sister organisation in Syria, the Saïd Foundation for Development, which will take forward future work in Syria and is now considering how to support the needs of a post-Assad Syria.

In recent years, the Foundation has also worked to promote better health outcomes for people everywhere by making grants to innovative and impactful projects at world-leading medical research institutions based in the UK and known to the Saïd family. 

JOB DESCRIPTION

Job purpose:

To lead a small, motivated team in the best-practice implementation, monitoring and evaluation of the Foundation’s programmes and grants and to build strong relationships with the Foundation’s Trustees, partners and scholars.

Responsibilities:

1. Programme and grant management

a) To oversee the management of the scholarships programme, ensuring the selection of outstanding students from the Levant region and the Foundation’s duty of care to them while they are in the UK.

b) To oversee the Foundation’s grant-making programmes, ensuring that grants agreed by the Trustees are informed by rigorous due diligence and are monitored effectively.

c) To provide guidance as necessary to the Board and staff of the Saïd Foundation for Development in Syria on governance and project management matters.

d) To oversee the evaluation of the scholarships programme periodically, and grant-funded projects as necessary, to ensure they achieve their intended objectives and apply learning to their improvement.

2. Organisation and staff management

a) To devise and implement annual plans for implementation of the Foundation’s work, define the level and timing of human and other resources required to deliver the plans and develop key performance indicators to report progress against plans to the Board.

b) To foster a supportive work culture, managing staff in line with best human resource practice and ensuring high levels of motivation and strong performance.

c) To recruit staff, when necessary.

d) To oversee the effective operation of all office systems, including IT and the scholarships platform and database, and introduce improvements (for example, in the use of AI).

e) To ensure that health and safety aspects are taken into account appropriately when the Foundation’s staff, students and Trustees are travelling in connection with the Foundation’s activities.

3. Governance and Trustees

a) To meet regularly with the Chairman to ensure he is fully informed of developments and to support planning for Board and Committee deliberations.

b) To engage Trustees actively, drawing on their expertise to enhance the work of the Foundation, and report to them regularly on the Foundation’s work.

c) With the help of other staff, to make recommendations to the Foundation’s Committees on their focus areas and ensure high quality papers for Board and Committee meetings and timely follow up of action points.

d) To remain up to date with developments in charity governance and regulation to ensure that the Foundation follows best practice and is compliant with regulations.

e) To identify key risks to the Foundation’s funding, operation and reputation, ensuring that controls are in place for their mitigation and their inclusion in the risk register.

4. Financial, accounting and investment matters (with the Financial Controller)

a) To ensure that accurate annual budgets for the Foundation’s programmes, staff, administration and property management costs are approved by the Trustees and that cash flow projections support decision-making on the timely funding of the Foundation.

b) To ensure that monthly management accounts and annual statutory accounts provide all necessary information for accountability and management purposes.

c) To oversee rigorous internal controls for the Foundation’s payments and receipts.

d) To support the Investment Committee in ensuring the effective management and secure custody of the Foundation’s financial and property assets and monitoring of the performance of these investments.

5. Saïd Business School Foundation (SBSF)

a) To ensure that all Strategic Development Fund (and other) grants meet the objectives agreed with the School and monitor the impact of the grants through the School’s reporting.

b) To oversee high-quality reporting to SBSF’s Board of Directors and its Committees including on the overall development and performance of the School.

c) To monitor the continuing fulfilment of undertakings made to SBSF by Oxford University so that any departure from these undertakings can be assessed by the Board.

d) To ensure that all SBSF’s accounting and other regulatory requirements are met.

6. Representing the Foundation

a) To represent the Foundation externally at events and meetings and ensure that its own events provide a warm, welcoming and inspiring experience for invitees.

b) To build enduring relationships of trust with existing and new partners.

c) To ensure that the Foundation’s engagement with its students and alumni creates a strong sense of belonging to the Saïd Foundation “family”. 

PERSON SPECIFICATION

Knowledge, skills and experience

Essential

a) Strong relationship building skills with a wide range of people (such as Trustees, partners and students).

b) Experience of managing, motivating and mentoring a team to achieve their potential.

c) Excellent and engaging communications and presentation skills, in person and in writing.

d) Strong experience of the UK charity sector and charity regulation and governance.

e) Proven experience in budget setting, financial planning, and financial management.

f) Excellent organisation and management skills, with the ability to manage a number of tasks at the same time.

g) An understanding, and personal experience, of the Levant region of the Middle East.

h) An existing and unrestricted right to work in the UK.

Desirable

i) Experience of recruiting exceptional students and of supporting their needs as overseas students.

j) Experience of developing, implementing and delivering educational and/or humanitarian programmes.

k) Experience in grant making, including due diligence, agreement management, monitoring and evaluation.

Attributes

a) A commitment to bridge building and respect across cultures.

b) A conviction that education can change lives for the better, create enlightened and effective leadership and benefit wider society.

c) An adaptable approach including the flexibility to undertake a wide range of tasks.

d) A “can do” attitude, enthusiasm, resilience and energy.

e) Integrity, humility and discretion.

OTHER BENEFITS

- Employer’s pension contribution of 5% of salary.

- 25 days’ holiday in addition to bank holidays.

- Private health insurance.

HOW TO APPLY AND RECRUITMENT PROCESS

To apply, please email a CV outlining your relevant experience, including how it meets the requirements of the job description, along with a cover letter of no more than two pages explaining your interest in the role and addressing the criteria set out in the person specification. Please refer to the attached application brief for more information.

Deadline for applications: Monday 9 March 2026 at 10:00 UK time.

Interviews: First interviews on 19 and 20 March; second interviews on 23 and 25 March. First interviews will be in person in central London or, if necessary, by video call depending on candidates’ ability to travel. Second interviews will be in person in central London. 

We are happy to offer informal, pre-application conversations about the role. 

The Opportunity 

The Finance and Operations Manager will provide financial expertise and support the Head of Finance & Operations (HFO) to deliver high quality financial management in budgeting, forecasting, and monthly reporting.

The role will also support the HFO in the organisation's operations functions, ensuring that legal and operational governance is delivered on time and to a high standard, that SMF is is compliant in Health & Safety (H&S), General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR), insurance and other operational matters. The role holder will provide support leadership on the organisation's IT function and deliver training to all teams in matters concerning finance and operations. 

Location: We operate a hybrid model of work i.e. a combination of in-person and remote, with flexible days in the office depending on business need and your preferences. We would typically expect in-office attendance an average of one day per week.

When in the office you will be based in one of our regional offices (either Birmingham, Glasgow, Liverpool, London, Manchester or Newcastle – depending on preference and accessibility). This is where you will usually attend in-person events, training sessions etc. though some travel, to other offices and other locations, will occasionally be expected.

Contract: Full-time, Permanent

Hours: We are looking for the right candidate and while we envisage this being a full-time role (37.5 hours per week) we are open to flexible working arrangements such as part-time, compressed hours, flexitime and job-shares. 

Occasional/frequent evening or weekend work may be required, for which time off in lieu (TOIL) will be given. 

Key Responsibilities:

1. Finance:

• Oversee the day-to-day financial management and cash flow of the Social Mobility Foundation (SMF) working closely with the HFO, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) and Operations team. 
• Ensure that our accounting software is consistently up to date with the correct information.
• Work with the HFO on management information to enable the SMT and trustees to monitor progress and performance, make effective decisions and plan for the future.
• Financial information to support income development including budgets, income tracking and analysis and funder reports.
• Support the development of the annual organisational budget with the HFO, in liaison with the CEO and management team and provide support in developing departmental / project budgets as relevant.
• Manage how the organisation applies and reports on VAT. 
• Alongside our appointed accountants prepare Year End accounts, end of project accounts, and work with the appointed accountants to ensure the Accounts are completed, approved, and filed on time.
• Manage and improve our financial systems and procedures, streamlining internal processes to ensure they are effective and safeguard the finances of the organisation.
• Devise and implement effective and efficient procedures, including the introduction of a purchase order system and a new ethical procurement policy.
• Maintain the payroll function of the organisation and be the lead point of contact with our external payroll provider. 
• Conduct reviews and evaluations for cost-reduction opportunities.

2. Operations:

• Support the Data Protection Officer (the HFO) for the organisation, in liaising with the Information Commissioner's Office (ICO) appropriately, ensure that all staff and volunteers are aware of and trained in the relevant Data Protection policy and procedures, and ensure that the organisation meets its Data Protection requirements.
• Support the HFO in overseeing operational matters such as insurance, H&S, buildings maintenance and asset register; work closely with the management team to ensure awareness, compliance, and procedures that are effective and efficient for staff and volunteers. Where appropriate, escalate concerns and issues to HFO.

3. Strategic Responsibilities:

• Work closely with management and trustees to provide and develop financial and operational expertise; contribute appropriately to the development and management of organisational strategies, service proposals and development of the organisation.
• Lead on the appropriate understanding and training at each level of the organisation on how operational and financial systems work and support their role.
• Ensure that financial and operational policies and procedures meet the highest standards, reflect the charity’s ethos effectively and support the organisation’s strategic development; champion inclusivity (including Equity Diversity and Inclusion (EDI)) and sustainability (in the widest sense).

4. Line Management

• Day-to-day people management
• Outline outcomes to be achieved, considering individual skills, capabilities, and workload to ensure a balanced distribution of work
• Review work outputs, monitor and quality assure work
• Manage and report on performance; deliver performance reviews
• Identify training and development needs; employ a coaching approach, and clarify opportunities for skill enhancement and career growth
• Recruit and induct new team members  
• Reasonably support well-being: provide a supportive work environment, and address any issues that may impact the well-being and morale of your reports

See attached job description for more detail on the key responsibilities in the role

Person Specification:

We need someone who will demonstrate our organisational skills-based competencies - as listed below: 

1.  Leadership
2.  Communication
3.  Adaptability
4.  Professionalism 
5.  Decision-making

Technical knowledge, understanding and experience required:

Essential:

• Part/fully qualified as an Accountant, or equivalent relevant experience
• Significant experience of working in a finance role in an organisation with a turnover of £1m or more  
• Hands on experience of maintaining a financial software package 
• Experience of working with financial systems to prepare financial reports and management accounts
• Experience in managing the operational aspects of an organisation, including risk assessments, GDPR etc.  
• Excellent knowledge and understanding of bookkeeping and general financial and accounting principles  
• Numerate and able to use an accounting software package  
• IT Literate, including experience of Microsoft Office software and excellent skills in using Excel and Word  

Desirable:

• Experience of working in a finance role for a charity
• Experience of Accounts IQ accounting package
• Experience of preparing finance reports relating to project grants/restricted funding from a range of donors 
• Knowledge of charity accounting and the Charities SORP (Statement of Recommended Practice) 
• Knowledge of Salesforce CRM

See attached job description for more detail on the person specification

Ways of working:

• Most of our work is office based, but you will spend a lot of time collaborating with other teams and clients via email, telephone and other communications channels such as Teams or Zoom. 
• Some travel will be required as part of this role to other offices and locations, as needed for events, work placements and meetings. 

Benefits

• 36/37 days' annual leave (England & Wales and Scotland respectively - includes bank and public holidays), with 3 of these days reserved for the annual end of year office closure.
• Cycle to Work scheme.
• 5% Salary sacrifice pension scheme with enhanced matching employer contributions
• Employee Assistance Programme available to staff and their family
• Flexible work options such as hybrid working, flexitime, part-time
• Regular staff team building and business planning “away days”

How to Apply

If you are interested in applying for this role, please head over to our website by 23:59, Sunday 22nd February and answer the following questions:

1) Why would you like to work at the Social Mobility Foundation? (250 words max.)

2) What makes you a suitable candidate for this role, including specific examples from your experience and skills? (500 words max.)

3) Tell us about a time when you managed an important relationship with a corporate partner, client or external stakeholder. What was your role in maintaining the relationship, and what did you learn about effective account management from the experience? (500 words max.)

About GNDR

We are the Global Network of Civil Society Organisations for Disaster Reduction (GNDR), the largest global network of organisations committed to working together to improve the lives of people affected by disasters worldwide. Since being established in 2007, we have grown into a network of over 2,000 member organisations across 130+ countries, representing millions of people on the frontlines of hazards, climate change and mass displacement. Through transformative, evidence-led programming and powerful advocacy, we are driving climate action and disaster resilience alongside our members across the globe.

About the role

GNDR is seeking a motivated and strategic leader to join our Senior Leadership Team as our new Head of Operations. 

With the launch of our 2026–2030 Global Strategy, this is a defining moment to shape how GNDR functions and ensure our global network is equipped to deliver real impact.

In this role, you will set the operational vision that underpins our strategy, ensuring our systems, people, and resources are aligned, sustainable, and future‑ready. You will lead all core operational functions, building the strong operational foundation that enables GNDR to thrive. Working closely with teams across regions, you will ensure our operations are coherent, efficient, and responsive to the needs of our members and the communities we serve.

If you’re driven by the opportunity to shape organisational excellence, strengthen global operations, and create the conditions for meaningful change, we’d love to hear from you.

Overall scope of the role

The remit of this post will cover the following core responsibilities:

• Strategic financial oversight
• Funding, grants and partnerships
• People, culture and organisational development
• Systems, logistics and IT
• Legal, risk and compliance
• Governance and board support
• Strategic leadership
• Line management and team development

Candidate requirements

We are ideally seeking candidates with:

• Expert financial stewardship, including management of grant‑funded budgets, financial controls, reporting, procurement, and supplier partnerships
• Operational and governance leadership spanning finance, HR, IT, compliance, risk, and organisational systems
• Inclusive people and culture leadership, with HR expertise and experience supporting cross‑cultural, geographically dispersed teams
• Strong digital capability, from driving digital transformation to confidently using finance, HR, and IT systems
• Strategic and organisational development skills, including planning, project oversight, risk management, and guiding teams through change
• Senior‑level strategic leadership, contributing to organisational direction and fostering effective cross‑team collaboration
• A deep commitment to equity, diversity, inclusion, and alignment with GNDR’s mission and values

Eligibility

Eligible candidates must have the right to work in the UK.  Candidates will need to be able to travel internationally when necessary. 

This role is primarily remote. We’ll ensure you have a safe and appropriate remote working setup, and we’re open to discussing flexible working arrangements as part of the recruitment process. Our hybrid working approach is currently under review, so there may be occasional in‑person meetups in London in the future, subject to ongoing consultation.

Please note that all offers of employment at GNDR are conditional and subject to satisfactory background checks.

We encourage applications from people who meet most of the essential criteria listed in the job description below. You don’t need to tick every single box to be considered. We recognise that strong candidates may bring relevant strengths and experience in different ways, and we don’t want this to deter you from applying. If you can demonstrate a solid overall match with the role, we’d love to hear from you.

For a full job description and person specification please follow the link below.

Start date

We are ideally looking for candidates who are available to start as early as possible. However, we recognise that availability may vary due to individual notice periods, and we are happy to accommodate some flexibility where possible.

How to apply

Please submit an up to date copy of your CV (max. two A4 pages) and a cover letter (max. one A4 page) outlining skills and experience relevant to the role by email to our HR team. Please include in the subject of the email, the following: “Application for the Head of Operations role”.

Please note: we are unable to accept incomplete applications.

Contact information of our HR team are availble on our website, please follow the application link below.

Closing date

11 March 2026 at 12pm (GMT)

Due to the high volume of applications we expect to receive for this role, we may not be able to provide individual feedback. However, we will endeavour to contact all applicants to update them on the outcome of their application.

Interview

Week commencing 16 March 2026

Please note: The interview process usually consists of two online stages, which may include a role‑specific task. Candidates who are successful at the shortlisting stage will be invited to a first online interview. If you progress from there, you’ll be invited to a second‑stage interview, where we may also ask you to complete a task assessment. Interviews are typically conducted by a panel of two to three people, including the hiring manager. We encourage applicants to let us know about any adjustments needed to ensure the recruitment process is fully accessible and equitable.

Our commitment to equity, diversity and inclusion 

We are dedicated to creating a team that embodies the rich diversity of the society and communities we serve. Our commitment lies in cultivating an inclusive environment, where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.

We strongly encourage applications from individuals of diverse backgrounds, including those from underrepresented ethnicities, nationalities, socioeconomic circumstances, LGBTQIA+ and individuals with disabilities. We celebrate the unique experiences and perspectives that every candidate brings and are dedicated to ensuring fair and equitable opportunities for all.

We’re committed to making our recruitment process as accessible and inclusive as possible for individuals of all needs and abilities. If you require any adjustments at any stage of our recruitment process, please contact us. Contact information are available on our website, please visit our jobs pages.

Our benefits and wellbeing

At GNDR, we are committed to cultivating a happy and healthy working environment for all our staff. We provide a competitive salary and benefits package across all of our locations.  Find out more about our approach to wellbeing and our benefits on our website.

Flexible working

In order to support and encourage a healthy work-life balance for our staff, we are happy to consider flexible working requests as part of our recruitment process. As a global organisation, most staff work remotely depending on their role and location. 

If you have any questions on any of the above information or if you have any specific requirements that would enable you to participate more fully in the recruitment process,  please contact our recruitment team.