Lead financial accountant jobs

DFN Project SEARCH is looking for an experienced charity finance professional to take on the newly-created Head of Finance role. As a well-established and successful UK charity, we are operating in a period of continued growth and require a Head of Finance who combines reliable financial insight, robust control and strong governance with hands-on delivery. This role will work closely with the Finance Director and wider executive team while remaining directly involved in month-end, reporting, controls, cash flow and systems improvement. This role has a requirement to travel to London an average of twice monthly as well as other UK travel to support away days and programme visits.

Key responsibilities include:

•     End-to-end ownership of the finance function, ensuring accurate, efficient and compliant day-to-day operations.
•     Working closely with the Finance Director to deliver management reporting, annual budgeting, statutory accounts and audit support.
•     Strengthening cash flow forecasting, treasury oversight, credit control and financial planning to support organisational growth.
•     Principal owner of the charity’s financial controls, policies, procedures and systems, further developing the use of Xero for real-time insight.
•     Supporting the charity’s funding model through strong oversight of restricted funds, grant reporting, contract support and funder compliance.
•    Build financial understanding across the organisation by supporting budget holders and translating financial information for non-finance colleagues.
•     Clear reporting relationship with the Finance Director and line management responsibility for the Finance Administrator.

Essential criteria

The successful candidate should be a fully qualified accountant who is comfortable leading and doing in a small charity environment. They should be technically strong, confident with hands-on financial operations, and able to work credibly with the Finance Director, executive colleagues, trustees, external advisors and non-finance budget holders.

•     Fully qualified accountant (ACA, ACCA, CIMA, CIPFA or equivalent).
•     Proven experience in a finance management role with end-to-end responsibility for a finance function.
•     Strong working knowledge of Charity SORP and charity accounting requirements.
•     Experience preparing management accounts, statutory accounts and board-level financial reports.
•     Strong cash flow management, balance sheet reconciliation and month-end close capability.
•     Experience of restricted funds management, grant reporting and supporting budgets for funding applications or tenders.
•     Confident using accounting systems, ideally Xero, and advanced Excel.
•     Ability to explain financial information clearly to non-specialist audiences and partner effectively with budget holders.
•     Strong leadership and collaboration skills, with the ability to line manage and develop a small finance team.
•     Proven experience in developing and implementing Financial Instructions in a charity setting

Desirable criteria

•     Experience of leading change and process optimisation
•     Experience in a remote or distributed organisation
•     Experience of working with complex stakeholder groups across education, public sector, social impact or donor settings
•     Experience of payroll oversight, VAT returns and finance systems/process improvement would be highly valuable.

Remuneration and Offer Considerations

Over and above the salary range offered, we also offer:

•     Flexible working arrangements considered including jobsharing and part-time (minimum of 4 days per  week) work as well as a condensed hours working pattern of 10 working days over 9.
•     Annual leave buy-back.
•     Remote role with travel as required.
•     Wellbeing benefits such as an Employee Assistance Programme and NHS top-up support.

Reporting to the Head of Finance, and supporting our small talented highly talented Team your key tasks will be to:

· assist staff managing project finances ;

·       support the development of donor project budgets;

·       take a principlal role in supporting financial compliance;

·       support IM to fulfil its accountability to funders

You will be a fully qualified accountant with at least 4 years’ progressive experience working on charity financial management including budget compilation, donor reports and grant management. With excellent MS Excel skills and experience of Sage 50 and ExpenseIn or similar systems, you will have outstanding attention to detail and excellent oral and written English communication skills.

We don't just want a dyed in the wool accountant, we also want someone with great interpersonal skills. A problem solver with a GSOH who thrives in a small, fast-paced high-calibre international team where everyone pitches in. A demonstrable interest in international relations and peacemaking and / or experience of working in a conflict zone and additional languages would be highly desirable.

Applicants must have the right to work in the UK

A prestigious, world-renowned professional membership body and educational charity is seeking a Financial Accountant to join them. This is a pivotal role that balances technical reporting, tax compliance, and systems development within a complex group structure.

This is a great opportunity for an ACA qualified auditor currently working in practice specialising in charity or non profit audits, or someone already operating in a Financial Accountant role within the charity sector. 

Key Responsibilities:

• Produce subsidiary accounts and support the Group Financial Reporting Manager with consolidated year-end statements.
• Prepare and submit quarterly group VAT returns and manage relationships with external tax advisors and HMRC.
• Act as the functional administrator for the finance system, driving improvements and providing staff training.
• Administer investment portfolios, scholarship programmes, and fund accounting.
• Lead and develop a Finance Administrator, specifically providing mentorship through their apprenticeship programme.
• Manage the fixed asset register, intercompany reconciliations, and lead on cash flow monitoring.

Essential Requirements:

• ACCA, ACA or CIMA Qualified Accountant
• Experience auditing charities or non profits in an audit role OR in a similar role within a charity or membership organisation.
• Experience overseeing VAT, including partial exemptions.
• Experience managing payroll, pensions and balance sheet reconciliations.

Salary is £55,000 + Benefits. Central London based with hybrid working. 

Applications are being reviewed on a rolling basis with interviews being set up immediately. Please apply with your CV ASAP to ensure you are considered. 

WORKING WITH US

The founder and sponsor of the Harris Federation, Lord Harris of Peckham, opened our first school in 1990. We have, over the past thirty years, implemented ideas and initiatives that have transformed the opportunities of pupils from working class and disadvantaged backgrounds. Harris academies are widely recognised as a force for social mobility. We are immensely proud of the role that our alumni are now beginning to play in the world and of what we believe our current generation of pupils will go on to achieve.

We now have over 50 schools educating more than 40,000 young people across London and Essex, and employ over 5,000 staff across our academies and head office. With the majority of our academies located in areas of high socioeconomic disadvantage, a high-quality education is key to the futures of the pupils we serve.

As a provider of employment and education, we value the diversity of our staff and students, and all our staff are equally valued and respected. We are committed to providing a fair, equitable and mutually supportive learning and working environment for our students and staff.

Our work will impact many generations to come, and our staff come from all backgrounds and walks of life, coming together to inspire young minds. We promote an inclusive culture that embraces the valuable and enriching contribution that all of our community make. We continue to be proactive in uplifting and supporting all voices at Harris.

To discover more about our culture, ethos and what it is like to work here, visit the page.

ABOUT THIS OPPORTUNITY

Join Harris Federation, one of the UK's leading education trusts, and play a key role in delivering high quality financial reporting and control across a growing organisation.

We are looking for an experienced, detail-focused finance professional with strong analytical and reporting skills. In return, you’ll benefit from a collaborative environment, excellent professional development, and the opportunity to contribute to an organisation dedicated to improving outcomes for young people.

If you are ready to take the next step in your finance career, we would welcome your application.

MAIN AREAS OF RESPONSIBILITY

Reporting to the Head of Financial Accounting, you will take ownership of producing accurate management and statutory accounts, supporting audits, and ensuring compliance with UK GAAP and charity sector requirements.

This is a varied and impactful role, where you will lead on month-end processes, balance sheet reconciliations, VAT returns, and cash management, while also driving continuous improvement in financial systems and controls. Working closely with stakeholders, you’ll provide clear financial insight to support decision-making across the Federation.

WHAT WE ARE LOOKING FOR

We would like to hear from you if you have:

• An understanding of UK GAAP
• Experience with financial systems and ERP software (e.g. SAP, Oracle, Sage) along with proficiency in Microsoft Excel, including advanced functions
• Ideally 2-3 years of post-graduation experience in an accounting role, preferably within a commercial environment
• ACA, ACCA, or CIMA (or equivalent) either in progress or recently obtained
• A degree in Accounting, Finance or a related discipline, with a strong academic record

For a full job description and person specification, please download the Job Pack.

APPLYING FOR THIS POSITION

If you would like to discuss the opportunity further, or if you have any questions, please contact us via email to arrange a conversation.

Before applying please ensure you download the job pack from our careers website, this will help with completing your application. Please note that we only accept applications submitted online before the closing date.

When applying, you will have the option to import your CV or use a LinkedIn profile which will auto populate the online application. 

A reminder to check your junk mail for our email communications and add us to your safe senders list to ensure all future email communication is received.

OUR VISION & VALUES

Our vision, from the start, has been to provide the structure and services needed for our schools to amount to more than the sum of their parts, and to free-up our teachers and leaders to focus on one thing and one thing only: the outstanding education of all their pupils. Our young people and communities are at the heart of everything we do. Our core mission has always been to close the educational gap between young people from disadvantaged backgrounds and their peers. Our ambition is one where every child in London, no matter their background, has equal access to high quality education, giving them the same opportunities and potential to succeed.

We know there are many challenges facing our young people and the communities we serve, and that’s why we need determined people like you to help us tackle those inequalities. Whilst each of our academies has their own unique cultures and values; as a whole Federation, we have four core values which are central to successfully achieving our vision: Excellence, Collaboration, Support, and Innovation. We are proud of our values because they guide us in how we work allowing us to achieve the best possible outcomes for our young people, communities, and colleagues.

IMPORTANT INFORMATION

Safeguarding Notice

The Harris Federation and all our academies are committed to ensuring the highest levels of safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people, and we expect all our staff and volunteers to share this commitment. All offers of employment are subject to an enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check, references, an online search, and where applicable, a prohibition from teaching check will be completed.

Equal Opportunities

The Harris Federation is an equal opportunities employer and welcomes applications from all suitably qualified candidates. We value the diversity of our staff and students, and everyone at the Harris Federation is equally valued and respected. We aim to be an inclusive employer that reflects the communities we serve. We are committed to providing a fair, equitable and mutually supportive learning and working environment.

WHAT WE CAN OFFER YOU

Harris has a strong culture of collaboration and best practice, with professional development and career planning at its centre. We invest in our staff with support, coaching, mentoring, and a wide range of top-quality training programmes delivered at every level.

You will also have access to a variety of benefits, support programmes and initiatives including:

• Excellent opportunities for continuous professional development and career progression
• Annual performance and loyalty bonus
• Pension scheme (Teachers' Pension Scheme or Local Government Pension Scheme) with generous employer contribution
• 26 days' annual leave (inclusive of our Christmas Eve closure day) plus bank holidays, rising to 27 days after 2 years' service, or equivalent for staff on term time contracts
• Harris Wellbeing Cash Plan including cover for routine and specialist healthcare
• Employee Assistance Programme for free and confidential advice
• Cycle to work salary sacrifice scheme
• Wide range of shopping, leisure, and travel discounts
• 20% off at Tapi Carpets, exclusive to Harris employees
• Interest-free ICT and season ticket loans

For most non-teaching staff based at our Head Office in East Croydon, we also offer lifestyle friendly working arrangements including flexible start and end times, and hybrid working with two days from home and three days on site.

• Equipping Royal Brompton Hospital with a high specification genetic sequencer to screen and plan treatment for patients and their families
• Creating a new consultant fellowship in imaging related to structural heart disease
• Providing core funding for the rb&hArts programme combining improvements to the hospital environment with therapeutic activities such as Singing for Breathing
• Supporting three fellowships annually to support allied health professionals in pursuing research projects
• Funding the Road to Recovery programme to provide mental health support for patients with long Covid
• Committing £100,000 to a Patients' Fund each year, to support around 40 micro-projects from palliative care 'comfort boxes' to better seating and new televisions on wards

Are you a qualified finance professional looking to combine technical expertise with purpose-driven work? I am recruiting for an interim Financial Accountant to join a globally recognised organisation. This is an excellent opportunity for someone who enjoys operational finance, process improvement and international reporting within a collaborative and values-led environment.

Responsibilities

• Manage monthly subsidiary accounts and financial reporting
• Support month-end and year-end close processes
• Coordinate local and group audit requirements
• Prepare VAT returns, corporation tax submissions and statutory filings
• Support accounts payable and receivable processes
• Drive process improvement and financial reporting efficiencies

My client is looking for:

• ACA, CIMA or equivalent qualified accountant with 5+ years PQE
• Strong financial reporting, audit and subsidiary accounting experience
• Strong stakeholder management and relationship-building ability
• Experience in process improvement or finance automation
• Exposure to international entities and multi-jurisdiction reporting
• Experience working within ESG, sustainable finance, non-profit or membership organisations

My client can offer a flexible approach to working, with 2 days a week going into the office based in central London and the rest working remotely. There is also a strong opportunity for this role to get extended.

Applications are under constant review and the post can close early if the right candidate is found. Please apply immediately if this role is of interest.

The Centre for Homelessness Impact exists to improve the lives of people experiencing homelessness through better use of data and evidence.

IN A NUTSHELL:

This is a pivotal role at the intersection of finance and operations, helping to ensure the smooth and effective running of key organisational functions. The Finance and Operations Lead will play an integral role in overseeing the charity’s financial operations, supporting grant reporting and wider business development initiatives, and driving operational efficiency across the organisation.

WHY IS THIS ROLE IMPORTANT FOR THE CENTRE’S WORK?

Collaborating closely with the senior and wider teams, the Finance and Operations Lead will play a key role in financial management, and operational effectiveness, contributing directly to the success of our initiatives.

WE’RE LOOKING FOR SOMEONE WHO CAN:

• Be the main point of contact for all finance and operational queries

• Manage the organisation’s core financial operations, including monthly Management Accounts, project finances, VAT returns and financial reporting, while working closely with external bookkeepers to ensure effective financial management and compliance, while working closely with the COO on financial oversight and planning

• Coordinate and manage the annual budgeting, Mid Year Forecasting and audit processes, preparing financial information, liaising with budget holders and external accountants, and ensuring timelines, reporting requirements and supporting documentation are delivered accurately and on time, while working closely with the COO on final review and strategic adjustments

• Support the Head of People and Development with the delivery and implementation of the internal People Strategy (specifically focusing on refining recruitment, onboarding and offboarding processes, as well as providing support with grant reporting and budgeting requirements for funders)

• Manage day-to-day operations across the organisation, including onboarding new staff, supporting HR processes, coordinating office management and equipment setup, liaising with IT support providers, arranging organisation-wide cyber security training, and ensuring the smooth running of operational processes while identifying areas for improvement

• Collaborate with the Chief Operating Officer and the Head of Development and People to align financial and development goals

• Identify ways to enhance operational processes to support the growth of the organisation.

• Support the Engine Room team to establish effective organisational systems, routines and operational processes that support collaborative, person-centred and efficient ways of working across the organisation.

• Work closely with the Senior Team to provide financial insights, support strategic decision-making, and contribute to governance processes, including coordinating board paper inputs and monitoring organisational KPIs

RELEVANT EXPERIENCE AND BEHAVIOURS:

Criteria:

• Proven experience in finance and operations in a charity/ Third sector (Essential)

• Experience in fundraising/development initiatives (Desirable)

• Is committed to the vision and mission of CHI (Essential)

• Excellent communications skills, both written and verbal  with the ability to convey complex financial information to diverse audiences (Essential)

• Strong attention to detail, good organisational skills and an ability to work accurately, calmly and effectively (Essential)

• Good Excel skills with ability to create and manipulate pivot tables and use functions such as VLOOKUP and SUMIF. (Essential)

• Able to take a collaborative and proactive approach to operations, with a focus on continuous improvement. (Essential)

• Familiarity with financial regulations and a commitment to maintaining compliance. (Essential)

• A team player able to adapt to changes in workload and priorities (Essential)

• AAT qualification or equivalent (Desirable)

TERMS OF APPOINTMENT:

• Both full and part-time considered.

• Salary: £35,000 to £45,000 (pro rata if part-time), depending on experience.

• Location: London (hybrid working model, with at least one day per week in the office)

WORKING AT CHI:

As part of the team, you’ll have access to a range of benefits, including:

• Interest-free loans for travel, cycle to work, and tenancy deposits

• Pension scheme with 8.5% employer contribution

• 30 days’ annual leave, rising to 33 with service

• Enhanced family leave and pay

• Employee assistance programme

• Flexible working

• Generous learning and development budget

• Quarterly team away days

TO APPLY

We use Applied for all our internal recruitment - an independent online recruitment platform that reduces bias, improves quality of hire and increases diversity. 

The closing date for this role is Monday 15 June 2026.

First round of Interviews to take place during the w/c 22 June 2026. This will include a short written exercise (that needs to be completed ahead of the interview). All details will be provided in due course.

Anna Freud
Senior Finance Business Partner
Salary: £60,000
Contract: Permanent, full-time
Hybrid working: 1 day per week in the office
Location: Central London (office near Kings Cross and Angel)

Anna Freud is a world-leading mental health charity for children, young people and their families. For over 70 years, we have been transforming understanding, practice and outcomes in mental health to help create a more compassionate society and close the gap between mental illness and mental wellness. 
We are at a pivotal moment in strengthening our financial insight, modelling capability and business partnering approach. As we continue to grow our impact, we are looking for a talented and driven finance professional to play a key role in shaping financial decision-making across the organisation.
This is an exceptional opportunity for a qualified accountant to step into a highly visible and strategic role, partnering with senior stakeholders to deliver insight that supports both operational performance and long-term sustainability.

About the Role
Reporting to the Head of Finance, the Senior Finance Business Partner will play a central role in delivering high-quality financial planning, modelling and analysis across the charity.
You will lead on budgeting, forecasting and management reporting, while developing sophisticated financial models including scenario planning, cost recovery approaches and long-term income and expenditure projections to support strategic decision-making. 
Working closely with senior leaders and budget holders, you will provide clear, insightful analysis and act as a trusted advisor, helping teams to understand their financial performance and make informed, evidence-based decisions.
This role combines technical expertise, commercial insight and strong stakeholder engagement, with a clear focus on continuous improvement and organisational impact.

Key Responsibilities
Financial Planning & Analysis

• Lead the development of robust financial models, including multi-year forecasting and scenario planning
• Provide insight into financial performance through detailed analysis of income, expenditure, margins and cost ratios

Budgeting & Forecasting

• Own and continuously improve the annual budgeting and reforecasting processes
• Ensure budget holders are supported, accountable and aligned to organisational strategy

Business Partnering

• Build strong, collaborative relationships across departments, acting as a trusted advisor and “critical friend”
• Support non-finance stakeholders to understand and use financial data effectively

Continuous Improvement & Systems

• Enhance financial processes, systems and reporting tools to improve efficiency and insight
• Support the development of dashboards and data visualisation to improve decision-making
• Contribute to ongoing improvements in financial governance and controls

About You
We are looking for a qualified accountant (ACA, ACCA or CIMA) who has an understanding of charity finance, with strong financial analysis and business partnering experience.
You will bring:

• Proven expertise in budgeting, forecasting and management reporting
• Strong financial modelling and analytical skills, with advanced Excel capability
• The ability to translate complex financial data into clear, actionable insight
• Confidence working with and influencing senior stakeholders
• A proactive, solutions-focused mindset with a passion for continuous improvement
• Excellent communication skills, with the ability to engage non-financial audiences effectivel

Earth Trust is looking for a Finance Director to help shape the next stage of our development as a place-based environmental charity with growing ambition, increasing complexity and a powerful mission.

Based at Wittenham Clumps in Oxfordshire, Earth Trust cares for farmland, woodland, meadows, wetlands and community reserves, connecting people with nature and demonstrating how people and the natural world can thrive together. Our work brings together public engagement, learning, nature-friendly farming, partnerships and commercial activity in support of our charitable purpose.

This is a pivotal moment for the organisation. Alongside our established charitable work, we are delivering Gateway to Nature — a major programme to improve access, enhance the visitor experience and support growth in sustainable earned income. We need a Finance Director who can ensure this ambition is underpinned by clear, robust and commercially sound financial thinking.

As a member of the Executive Leadership Team, you will work closely with the Chief Executive, senior colleagues and Trustees to shape organisational direction, strengthen financial planning and ensure resources are aligned with impact. You will provide strategic financial insight, constructive challenge and practical support across the organisation.

You will lead budgeting, forecasting, management accounts, statutory reporting, audit, financial governance, risk, reserves and controls. You will also support business cases, financial models, capital project oversight, trading activity and commercial decision-making.

We are looking for a qualified accountant with significant senior finance leadership experience, ideally gained in a charity or similarly complex organisation. You will bring strong technical finance skills, sound judgement, commercial awareness and the ability to communicate clearly with non-finance colleagues. Just as importantly, you will be collaborative, values-led and motivated by the opportunity to use finance as an enabler of environmental and social impact.

This role will suit someone who combines strategic leadership with a practical, hands-on approach, and who enjoys helping colleagues build financial confidence, accountability and discipline.

To apply, please send a CV and covering letter explaining why you are suitable and what attracts you to the role to by Sunday 21st June.

A UK-based charity, which advocates for social justice through a diverse range of programmes and services, is seeking a permanent Financial Controller to join its finance team.

The charity runs  range of core programmes, including those focussed on social justice, environmental justice, protection of human rights and dignity, and advocating for marginalised groups, among many other programme areas.

Reporting into the Director of Finance, the successful candidate will be responsible for the effective financial management, control, and statutory reporting of the organisation and its associated entities. This is a broad and hands-on role offering exposure to financial reporting, compliance, budgeting, systems oversight, and stakeholder engagement within a values-driven environment. Key responsibilities are as follows:

• Lead the preparation of annual statutory accounts, including year-end close procedures, consolidations, and audit adjustments.
• Act as the primary contact for external auditors, managing audit timelines and responding to queries.
• Prepare the annual organisational budget in collaboration with senior stakeholders.
• Produce quarterly management accounts and oversee reconciliations across different entities and departments
• Manage the organisation’s accounting system and relationships with external system providers.
• Support accounting and reporting for externally managed investment portfolios.
• Work closely with the Finance Director to support strategic and operational decision-making.

You will:

• Be a fully qualified accountant (ACA, ACCA, CIMA or equivalent).
• Have strong financial control experience, ideally within the charity or not-for-profit sector.
• Have experience preparing complex statutory accounts and managing external audits.
• Have an interest in working for an organisation with strong values relating to social justice, kindness, care and support.

Salary of £70,000 - £80,000 DOE

Hybrid working arrangements, with an office in central London. Hybrid arrangements open to discussion with expectations of c. 3 days per week in the office

Head of Financial Reporting & Processing
Location: Hybrid / Flexible
Organisation: Teach First
Contract: Fixed-Term Contract, 12-18 months
Salary: £75k-£80k

Prospectus are delighted to be supporting our client in their search for a Head of Financial Reporting and Processing. The organisation works with schools, teachers and leaders across the country to ensure every child, regardless of background, has the opportunity to thrive. This newly created role will play a critical role in strengthening their finance function at a pivotal moment for the organisation. Reporting to the Executive Director of Finance & Performance, you’ll lead their Financial Reporting & Processing team and be responsible for the end‑to‑end financial processing and reporting framework across the charity.

You’ll be a qualified accountant, and have extensive experience leading high performing teams, ideally through periods of significant change, as well as a solid understanding of what excellent financial management looks like. This role offers the chance for you to shape operating models, embed best practice, and lead meaningful change. Most importantly, you’ll be motivated by purpose and excited to use your expertise to support a charity working to end educational disadvantage. You’ll be working closely with senior finance leaders, the Chair of the Finance Risk & Audit Committee, and external auditors, and will directly line manage a team of four.

What you’ll be doing
As Head of Financial Reporting & Processing, you will:

• Lead, coach and develop a high‑performing team of four, building capability, resilience and accountability
• Take ownership of accurate, timely and compliant financial reporting for internal and external stakeholders
• Design and continuously improve financial controls, accounting policies and reporting processes in line with best practice, FRS102 and the Charity SORP
• Provide senior oversight of the external audit process and act as the escalation point for complex technical issues
• Oversee cash management, treasury and investment activity in line with the Charity’s Investment Policy
• Ensure tax compliance, managing filings and working with external advisors where required
• Drive efficient and effective accounts payable and receivable processes across the organisation

At Prospectus we invest in your journey as a candidate and are committed to supporting you with your application. We welcome all candidates to apply, regardless of age, sex/gender, disability, race, religion, sexual orientation, marital status or pregnancy/maternity. If you have any disability and require reasonable adjustment/s to any part of the process then please contact Shannon Sanderson at Prospectus.

All appointments at the organisation are subject to an enhanced DBS check and safer recruitment practices.

Group FP&A Manager | £65,000 - £84,000 (DoE) | Hybrid | London | Permanent

For a large international organisation, we are recruiting a Group FP&A Manager to deliver group-level MI, planning and forecasting. This role will oversee and produce high-quality financial reporting, Flash results, monthly MI, quarterly business reviews (QBRs), long-term planning, and will review and validate insight-led analysis to support decision-making. The Group FP&A Manager will lead variance analysis, performance reviews and liaise with the Regions and Business Units to consolidate and interpret data, ensuring consistency across month-end, quarter-end and year-end reporting. This role will also produce strategic planning and modelling for leaders, support the SSC and Centre of Excellence with financial modelling, dashboards and reports, and will support the roll-out of the Anaplan FP&A system.

Main Duties:

• Lead preparation for end-to-end delivery of monthly MI including Cash Flow, P&L and Performance Management
• Oversee the consolidation of the annual budget, Long Range Plan, Quarterly Business Preview, Flash, and monthly re-forecasts across P&L, Balance Sheet and Cashflow forecasting (3-Statement Modelling)
• Monitor and report on group liquidity
• Lead preparation of papers and financial packs for the Board, SLT and Trustees
• Produce in-depth variance analysis and KPIs for Exec decision-making
• Support long-range planning, scenario modelling and ad-hoc analysis
• Work with the FP&A Centre of Excellence to create financial models and deliver insights
• Mentor and guide the FP&A Analyst in their deliverables and serve as key contact for the global FP&A community - linking the Business Units and Regions
• Lead he functional design and implementation of Anaplan alongside the Centre of Excellence, ensuring new tools and dashboards meet organisational needs
• Drive process and reporting improvements with the Centre of Excellence to standardise Anaplan reporting templates and automate manual processes

Person Specification:

• Qualified Accountant with proven Group-level FP&A experience including MI reporting
• Experience managing the annual planning and reporting calendar
• Ability to build budgets, forecasts, and annual plans at Group level
• Annual planning and consolidated reporting at Group-level
• International, FX, and multi-currency experience
• Financial modelling and advanced Excel
• Shared Services experience (SSC)
• Anaplan and SAP experience would be desirable

________

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.

Magic Bus is seeking a Global Senior Finance Manager to lead financial management
across each of its Magic Bus Global, UK and Singapore entities (“three Magic Bus
entities”). This is a senior, high-impact role, critical to supporting the organisation’s next
phase of growth and strengthening its global finance function.

Based in the UK and reporting to the Magic Bus UK Board and Executive Director (with
alignment to Magic Bus Global and Singapore leadership), the role operates within an
international development NGO environment. It combines hands-on financial
management with strategic oversight, ensuring strong governance, compliance, and
financial insight across multiple geographies.

The postholder will oversee end-to-end finance operations, manage outsourced
providers (audit, payroll) and play a key role in driving financial sustainability and
performance. In addition, and when the opportunity arises, the postholder will support
the fundraising initiatives of Magic Bus UK and any other Magic Bus entities as
appropriate.

Key Responsibilities
Financial Leadership:
- Lead financial management across each of Magic Bus’s Global, UK and
Singapore entities, ensuring consistency, transparency and strong internal
controls.
- Act as the primary finance lead to the Magic Bus UK Board and Executive
Director.
- Strengthen financial policies and processes across all three Magic Bus entities.
- Ensure compliance with UK charity regulations and Companies Act 2006 (as
appropriate) and all relevant international requirements.
- Oversee relationships with external providers (auditors, payroll, finance
partners).
- Maintain a robust financial control environment.

Financial Planning, Budgeting and Forecasting:
- Lead the annual budgeting process across three Magic Bus entities,
incorporating input from country teams and the Boards.
- Develop high-quality financial forecasts, scenario modelling, and long-term
financial planning.
- Provide clear insight into financial sustainability, funding gaps, and reserves
strategy.
- Monitor performance against budget and support timely corrective actions, as
required.

Management Reporting and Performance:
- Oversee the production of accurate and timely monthly management accounts
across all three Magic Bus entities.
- Deliver clear variance analysis and actionable insights to support decision-
making.
- Standardise and improve reporting processes across geographies.
- Present financial performance to the Board and senior stakeholders.

Financial Accounting:
- Ensure robust month-end and year-end close processes across entities.
- Maintain oversight of key accounting areas.
- Lead the annual audit process and statutory reporting requirements.
- Oversee submissions to the Charity Commission, Companies House, and
relevant international bodies.
- Support fundraising and operations with donor requirements, including
restricted funding and grant reporting.

Cash Flow, Treasury and Risk Management:
- Oversee cash flow across entities, ensuring adequate liquidity at all times.
- Monitor and optimise reserves in line with organisational policies.
- Oversee payment processes and financial controls.
- Identify financial and operational risks and implement mitigation strategies.

Strategic Finance and Business Partnering:
- Act as a strategic finance partner to country leads and global leadership.
- Provide financial insight to support growth, expansion and funding strategies.
- Strengthen financial literacy and capability across non-finance teams.
- Drive continuous improvement in systems, processes and data quality.

Candidate Profile
Qualifications and Experience:
- Fully qualified accountant (ACA/CIMA/ACCA/CIPFA).
- Significant experience in a senior finance role, with end-to-end ownership of
finance operations.
- Strong experience in international development, NGO or grant-funded
environments.
- Experience working across multiple countries and/or legal entities.
- Experience reporting to Boards and senior leadership.
- Proven experience managing audits and external stakeholders.

Technical Skills:
- Strong financial accounting, controls, and compliance expertise.
- Experience with multi-entity consolidation and reporting.
- Advanced budgeting, forecasting and financial modelling skills.
Strong understanding of:
- Restricted funding and donor compliance.
- Grant reporting and funder requirements.
- Cash flow and reserves management.
- Experience with finance systems (e.g. Xero) and advanced Excel and Power
Point.

Leadership and Personal Attributes:
- Strong stakeholder management and communication skills.
- Ability to translate complex financial information for non-finance audiences.
- High level of integrity, accountability and sound judgement.
- Comfortable operating in a complex, evolving, international environment.
- Proactive, collaborative and solutions-oriented.
- Strong attention to detail with a strategic mindset.

Desirable:
- Experience managing outsourced finance functions or shared service models.
- Strong knowledge of UK charity compliance and governance.
- Exposure to US, Singapore, or other international reporting environments.
- Experience in scaling organisations or strengthening finance functions.
- Passion for international development and social impact.

Why Join Magic Bus UK
This is a unique opportunity to join our organisation at a pivotal moment of growth,
where you can shape strategy and contribute directly to life-changing impact for young
people in India.

We are committed to creating a supportive and inclusive working environment. Our
offer includes:
- 25 days annual leave plus bank holidays (33 days total), pro-rated for part-time
staff.
- Flexible and hybrid working arrangements.
- Private health insurance.
- Employer pension contribution.
- Training and professional development opportunities.
- Death in service benefit.
- A collaborative, mission-driven team culture.

Diversity and Inclusion:
Magic Bus UK and other entities are committed to building a diverse, inclusive and
equitable organisation where everyone feels valued, respected, and able to contribute
fully. We welcome applications from people of all backgrounds, including all gender
identities, ages, sexual orientations, ethnicities, nationalities, and religious beliefs (or
none). We particularly encourage applications from individuals and communities that
are underrepresented in the charity sector. We recognise that talent and potential are
not always reflected in traditional career paths. If you feel you meet most of the criteria
but not every requirement, we would still strongly encourage you to apply. We are
committed to making our recruitment process accessible and inclusive. If you require
any adjustments at any stage, please let us know; we will be happy to support you. At
Magic Bus UK, we believe that diversity of perspectives strengthens our work and helps
us better serve the young people and communities we support.

Job title: The Social Change Nest Financial Controller (Client Funds)

Role Purpose:

This role sits at the heart of our financial controls at the Social Change Nest and combines cash management oversight, payment operations and financial compliance. However, this is not a traditional Financial Controller position. You will work with the team to ensure robust financial controls, accurate reconciliations, secure payment processes and transparent reporting for our diverse portfolio of social impact clients. You will also be a key driver of operational improvement, identifying better ways of working as we scale.

About the Social Change Nest

The Social Change Nest (SCN) is a fiscal hosting organisation that removes the financial and administrative barriers preventing grassroots groups and informal movements from accessing funding. Since 2021, we have supported 700+ groups across the UK and internationally, helping them access over £50 million in funding for causes ranging from climate and housing to racial justice and social wellbeing. We also work closely with funders, providing Grant Distribution and Fund Management services, enabling us to support social action with confidence and transparency. We are at the forefront of fiscal hosting in the UK! 

We’re a growing business operating at pace. We’ve established a lot – but as we grow, we’re still working some things out. The right person will thrive in this environment and relish building out a future-facing finance function. You’ll enjoy problem-solving, feel comfortable handling multiple priorities at once, and seek collaborative solutions. You’ll be adaptable, able to shift focus quickly when things change, and ensure strong communication across the team and with clients to keep everything aligned. 

Key Responsibilities:

1. Payment Processes & Systems Management

●Own and optimise the end-to-end payment infrastructure (banking platforms, expense management tools, Open Collective platform and accounting system integrations)

●Design, implement and monitor robust internal controls to prevent fraud, errors or unauthorised disbursements

●Streamline high-volume payment workflows while maintaining strict adherence to SCN policies

2. Bank Reconciliations & Treasury

●Ensure all client bank accounts are reconciled accurately and daily

●Investigate and resolve any variances between bank statements and the internal ledger immediately

●Track client cash positions to ensure sufficient liquidity for planned social project disbursements

3. Financial Reporting & Compliance

●Produce clear, concise financial reports for clients detailing fund movements and remaining balances

●Act as the lead contact for external audits regarding client cash and payment controls. Support the preparation of year end accounts and SCN’s external Audit as it interfaces with Client funds.

●Ensure all cash management and payment processes comply with UK Anti-Money Laundering supervision and relevant HMRC requirements

4. Operational Innovation & Client Service

●Proactively research and implement new financial technologies to enhance speed, security and transparency of client services

●Continuously evaluate existing workflows to eliminate bottlenecks and improve the client experience

●Lead the roll-out of new financial tools or system upgrades, ensuring smooth transition for internal teams and external partners

5. Leadership & Collaboration

●Line manage 1–2 members of the finance team, providing mentorship and support

●Being the point of escalation for the Finance and Delivery teams on more complex finance queries and dealing directly with our clients for financial solutions

●Contribute to finance team planning and lead on delivery of key projects

●Collaborate effectively with internal and external stakeholders across the organisation

Skills and Experience:

Essential

• Professional accounting qualification: ACA, ACCA or CIMA
• Proven experience in a Financial Controller, Head of Finance or senior audit role with a focus on cash controls and high-volume transactions
• Strong knowledge of financial governance, internal controls and compliance frameworks
• Experience in at least one of the following:

            -managing multi-currency transactions, FX impacts and global banking corridors

            -oversight of restricted funds, ensuring disbursements align with specific grant conditions and reporting requirements

            -implementing AML and KYC protocols and ensuring rigorous due diligence on all fund movements

• IT-literate and confident with leading technological change; advanced Excel skills and track record of implementing operational improvements
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills — able to translate financial information clearly for non-finance stakeholders
• Strong organisational skills with the ability to work in a fast-paced, dynamic environment while maintaining exceptional attention to detail, and being comfortable with shifting priorities and emerging risks
• Ability to lead, manage, and work effectively both as a member of a team and on own initiative.
• Ability to think strategically, supporting the implementation of a financial strategy and suggesting appropriate changes to SCN’s services.

Desirable

• Experience in the non-profit, charity or client-services sector
• Experience in a fast-growing or start-up environment
• Understanding of power dynamics and community engagement
• Experience with innovative approaches to governance

 Location: London/Hybrid preferred – 2-3 days /week in the office

Reporting To: Finance Director

Contract: Full time, Permanent (flexible working considered)

Salary: £58,000-£60,000

Date Closes: Thursday 11th June

Right to Work in the UK required, no sponsorship available.