Lead project accountant jobs

Job Title:  Head of Finance

Reports to:                        Chief Executive

Direct Reports:                 Finance and Business Administrator

Location: Remote – With some travel to attend meetings and events (mainly  in London but also other project areas elsewhere in the UK)

Salary: £46,542 Pro Rata

Hours: 3-4 Days per week

 About Alexandra Rose Charity 

We should all be able to eat healthy food. But right now, healthy options cost more than twice as much as junk food. It’s getting harder and harder for people to put good food on the table. In fact, the poorest fifth of UK households would need to spend 50% of their disposable income to eat the UK Government’s recommended healthy diet. Access to a choice of high quality, culturally appropriate fruit & veg is an essential building block for our mental and physical health. We need to put this right. 

We’re on a mission to give people access to their choice of fresh fruit & veg, in the heart of their community. At Alexandra Rose, we are proud to deliver a mix of practical, place-based projects and national advocacy to shape a fairer future, where everyone can afford and enjoy fresh fruit & veg with dignity. 

If this aligns with how you see the world, and you want to use your skills and experience to help us build towards it, you’ll feel at home here. 

About the role  

We are looking for an experienced Head of Finance to help deliver our mission and support the growth and consolidation of the charity. As a member of our Senior Management Team, you will play a key role in implementing our new strategy as well as managing risk.

You will take overall responsibility for the organisation’s financial management, working closely with the Chief Executive and the Treasurer.

You will provide effective finance partner support to other functions within the charity to support its fundraising, operations and development.

You will also be responsible for the line management of the Finance & Business Administrator, working with the Chief Executive to both oversee and support the governance and compliance services function of the charity.

We want our organisation to reflect the diversity of the communities we work in, and we welcome applications from people from all backgrounds.

Interview Process: The selection process may include two interviews:

The West Yorkshire Programme Manager will be responsible for the strategic and effective organisation of tutoring programmes delivered in primary, secondary and post-16 settings within West Yorkshire. You will be responsible for ensuring that our tuition programmes operate effectively and efficiently on a day-to-day basis. The West Yorkshire Programme Manager will lead a team and will share with schools, local authorities and multi-academic trusts the full range of Tutor Trust services, to further promote our work.

Job Responsibilities:

Strategic Partnerships & Stakeholder Engagement

• Act as the primary point of contact for senior leaders in schools, MATs, and the wider education sector across West Yorkshire.
• Secure and deliver presentations to school and college leaders to expand Tutor Trust’s network of partner institutions.
• Collaborate with the Strategic Operations Manager to develop and implement regional strategies for partnership growth.
• Promote Tutor Trust’s tuition services across the region and represent the organisation at stakeholder events.

 Programme Leadership & Delivery

• Lead tuition delivery across primary, secondary, and post-16 settings in West Yorkshire.
• Line manage the West Yorkshire Programme Coordinator and Programme Administrator to ensure effective project execution.
• Support the Strategic Operations Manager in guiding and developing the Programme Coordinator team.
• Deputise for the Strategic Operations Manager when required.

 Operational Oversight & Data Management

• Ensure accurate collection and reporting of impact data from tutors and partner institutions to support quality assurance, financial processes, and performance monitoring.
• Contribute to the development and tracking of tutoring targets and KPIs for internal and external reporting.
• Maintain accurate records on tuition progress using internal and external databases.
• Support internal communication systems to ensure timely and appropriate information sharing across teams and stakeholders.
• Manage the upload of Tuition Request Forms for West Yorkshire tuition assignments.

Safeguarding & Compliance

• Lead on monitoring and reporting all safeguarding concern processes, within your teams, ensuring all concerns are reported promptly to the Designated Safeguarding Lead or deputies, and helping to promote and foster a culture of vigilance and accountability across The Tutor Trust. 
• Take lead responsibility for monitoring safeguarding processes within your teams.

Tutor Recruitment & Development

• Support the recruitment and onboarding of tutors in collaboration with the recruitment team.
• Contribute to the training and development of new tutors, ensuring alignment with organisational standards.

 General Duties

• Assist with the planning and delivery of events for a range of stakeholders.
• Attend regular Partnership Operations team meetings led by the Programme Director.
• Undertake any other responsibilities commensurate with the role and grade.

 Person Specification

Strong candidates for this role will demonstrate a solid track record of performance, possess excellent IT and English skills, exhibit strong interpersonal and diplomatic abilities, and show initiative in their approach.

Skills

Leadership & Management

• The ability to lead, build and maintain successful teams and develop professional relationships.
• Demonstrated success in achieving targets and managing responsibilities effectively. 
• Strong business development skills to promote The Tutor Trust professionally. 

 Communication & Stakeholder Engagement

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to build rapport and engage effectively with internal and external stakeholders across all levels and sectors.
• Be able to write fluently, to think clearly and to grasp new concepts quickly.

Organisational & Time Management

• Proven experience in programme and project management.

• Strong organisational and time-management skills.
• The ability to work under pressure to cope with multiple demands and deadlines, to work fast and to a consistently high standard.

Technical Proficiency

• Strong proficiency in Microsoft 365 and general IT systems. 

• Experience with CRM (Salesforce preferable) and other software platforms (preferred). 

Sector Knowledge

• Knowledge of the education landscape in West Yorkshire (advantageous).

• Educated to degree level or equivalent relevant experience. 

Attributes

• Committed to safeguarding children and young people, and willing to undergo DBS clearance.
• Alignment with the goals, ethos, and mission of the Tutor Trust.
• Empathy for disadvantaged and vulnerable learners. 
• Enthusiastic and proactive in contributing to organisational growth and success.
• Demonstrates leadership through sound decision-making and effective prioritisation.
• Excellent time-management and attention to detail.
• Strong interpersonal skills and a collaborative working style.
• Willingness to work outside standard hours when required

Post Title: West Yorkshire Programme Manager

Responsible to: Strategic Operations Manager

Salary: £35,000 per annum

Holiday entitlement/Pension: Holiday entitlement will be 33 days per annum (inclusive of Bank Holidays), Employee Assistance Programme and access to an employee perk-based platform. The Tutor Trust also provides a contributory Government-backed NEST pensions scheme, which is offered to our employees after the qualifying period.

How to Apply

To apply, download an application form, an equality and diversity monitoring form and send your completed documents to the email provided on the website.

We’re looking for two Youth Workers (one Lead Youth Worker, and one Support Youth Worker) to plan, deliver and facilitate educational and social activities for separated children (up to 21 years old) in the context of an interactive youth club to be held weekly in partnership with Corner House Youth Project in Stockton-on Tees.

Although the Lead Youth Worker will prepare and deliver the materials, supported by the Support Youth Worker, they will also have the back-up of a Support Worker from Corner House and a social worker or personal advisor from Stockton-on-Tees Council.

Club Class is a long-standing project for The Separated Child Foundation, and Club Class in Stockton-on-Tees is a new location for us, launching as a 1-year pilot in October 2026.

Join Catalyst Support as a part-time Management Accountant and use your finance skills to support meaningful work across mental health, wellbeing and recovery services. This flexible hybrid role is ideal for someone who enjoys turning financial information into useful insight, supporting budget holders and making a real difference in the charity sector.

Catalyst Support is looking for a part-time Management Accountant to join our Finance team and play a key role in supporting the financial management of our charity services. This is a great opportunity for an experienced finance professional who enjoys preparing clear management accounts, working collaboratively with budget holders, and helping ensure accurate financial reporting across projects that make a real difference to people’s mental health, wellbeing and recovery.

Working closely with the Head of Finance & Resources, you will support monthly reporting, budgeting, forecasting, reconciliations and year-end processes, while providing practical finance guidance to colleagues across the organisation. We are looking for someone who is proactive, organised and values-led, with a commitment to kindness, integrity and high-quality charity finance.

Location  Hybrid with at least 50% of working time in our Woking office

Salary  £32,000 pro-rata

Work pattern 14–17.5 hours to be worked across 2 / 2 ½ days per week

Contract  Permanent

About Catalyst Support

Through Community, Specialist and Outreach services, we support recovery, mental health and wellbeing – together every step of the way.

Key Responsibilities

• Prepare monthly management accounts and project financial reports.
• Participate in regular management accounts meetings with budget holders; conduct variance analysis against budget and forecasts and provide commentary for senior management.
• Complete reconciliation of project related balance sheet accounts including accrued and prepaid expenditure, deferred and accrued income accounts.
• Respond to internal and external finance queries in a timely and professional manner.
• Process the month-end transactions in the accounting software (Xero).
• Prepare budgets and financial forecasts in collaboration with the Head of Finance & Resources and budget holders to ensure accurate upload into the financial system.
• Contribute to the development and enhancement of financial procedures and systems to improve efficiency and accuracy.
• Assist with the preparation of year-end accounts and liaise with auditors as required.
• Contribute to the compliance with relevant financial regulations, internal policies, and reporting standards.
• Undertake any other duties as required by the Head of Finance and Resources tp support the effective running of the finance function.

About you

We are looking for someone who:

• Holds an Association of Accounting Technicians Certificate, or an equivalent qualification.
• Has at least two years’ experience in a management accounting role.
• Has experience working within the charity sector.
• Is confident preparing accurate, timely and informative monthly management accounts.
• Has experience working with budget holders and providing clear financial advice and guidance to non-finance colleagues.
• Can analyse budgets, forecasts and variances, and explain financial information in a clear and accessible way.
• Has strong numeracy skills and experience working with multiple projects or funding streams.
• Is confident using Microsoft Word, Outlook and Excel, including advanced Excel functions such as IF formulas and Pivot Tables.
• Has experience using accounting software; experience of Xero would be desirable.
• Understands, or is willing to develop knowledge of, charity finance, Charity SORP and relevant financial regulations.
• Works well independently, within a small finance team and as part of the wider organisation.
• Is organised, proactive and able to prioritise work effectively.
• Demonstrates Catalyst’s values of kindness, commitment and integrity.
• Is respectful, inclusive and committed to equality of opportunity.
• Is adaptable, self-motivated and able to work calmly in a changing or challenging environment.

Benefits 

• 26 days annual leave plus bank holidays (increasing with service)
• Pension scheme and access to Simply Health (including optical, dental and counselling sessions)
• Birthday leave, employee discounts, and flexible working wherever possible
• Supportive probation, sick pay after probation and access to our employee assistance programme

Safeguarding & Checks

• Please note past drug and/or alcohol or criminality history will not necessarily discount you from undertaking this role. We encourage applications from people with lived experience where appropriate
• All applicants must have a valid right to work in the UK

Catalyst Support is an equal opportunities employer. We celebrate difference and are committed to fairness, accessibility, and inclusion throughout recruitment and employment. Please let us know if you require any adjustments to support your application.

We are seeking an experienced and technically strong finance professional to lead our Financial Accounting and transaction processing functions. This is a senior role within the Finance / Resources directorate, reporting to the Director of Resources and playing a key part in ensuring the accuracy, integrity and effectiveness of the College’s financial accounting arrangements.

The postholder will be responsible for the overall management and performance of the financial accounting and transaction processing teams, supporting statutory reporting, technical accounting, treasury management, tax compliance, financial systems development and effective financial control across the group. The role covers the accounting arrangements for the College, its subsidiary and the Malaysian company, with responsibility for maintaining high-quality accounting records and supporting informed decision-making by senior leaders and the Trustee Board.

About the role

You will lead the preparation of annual financial statements for the group and single entity, ensure timely submission of regulatory returns, and provide expert advice on technical accounting matters including FRS 102, Charity SORP, OSCR requirements, VAT and other tax matters. You will also oversee key reconciliations, maintain effective financial controls, manage treasury arrangements and banking relationships, and support the development of financial systems and procedures.

As a senior member of the finance team, you will work closely with the Head of Financial Reporting and Analysis, senior leaders, committee chairs, external auditors, consultants and colleagues across the organisation. You will also lead, motivate and develop a team of

6 colleagues, ensuring strong performance, effective processes and continuous improvement.

Key responsibilities

• Lead the production of annual financial statements and associated notes for the group and single entity.
• Oversee statutory and regulatory returns, including OSCR, Companies House, HMRC and other relevant submissions.
• Provide technical accounting advice and ensure compliance with FRS 102, Charity SORP and relevant regulatory requirements.
• Manage control account reconciliations, ledger integrity and financial accounting processes across the organisation.
• Lead treasury management, banking relationships, investment broker liaison and online banking controls.
• Ensure effective VAT, corporation tax and other tax compliance, maximising tax recovery where appropriate.
• Develop and maintain financial accounting policies, procedures, systems and controls.
• Lead, manage and develop the financial accounting and transaction processing teams.
• Contribute to cross-functional projects and deputise for the Director of Resources as required.

About you

You will be a qualified accountant with a recognised professional accountancy qualification, such as ICAEW, ICAS, ICAI, ACCA or CIMA, and significant experience in financial accounting. You will bring strong technical knowledge, ideally gained within an FRS 102 or similar environment, together with the ability to interpret complex financial requirements and translate them into practical solutions.

You will have excellent analytical, organisational and communication skills, with the confidence to advise senior finance and non-finance colleagues, present complex information clearly, and manage competing priorities. Experience of staff management, team development, financial systems, advanced Excel and working with external auditors or advisers will be important. Knowledge of Charity SORP, fixed asset accounting under FRS 102, or experience in charity or public sector would be advantageous.

Why join us?

This is an opportunity to take on a high-impact finance leadership role within a complex and respected organisation, supporting financial stewardship, strong governance and informed strategic decision-making. You will work with senior stakeholders across the group and help shape robust, efficient and continuously improving financial accounting services.

Interim Payroll Review Consultant (Outside IR35)

Contract: Interim Consultancy (Outside IR35)

Duration: Approximately 3 months (with potential extension)

Location: Hybrid, London

Day Rate: Competitive

The Opportunity

A leading international humanitarian charity is seeking an experienced Payroll Review Consultant to undertake a strategic review of its payroll function. This is a consultancy assignment for someone who can quickly assess the current payroll operating model, identify opportunities for improvement, and provide clear recommendations for the future delivery of payroll services.

The successful consultant will engage with stakeholders across Finance, HR and Payroll to understand existing processes, systems and controls before producing a practical roadmap for change. A key outcome will be determining whether payroll should continue to be delivered in-house or be outsourced to a third-party provider.

This is an excellent opportunity for an experienced payroll transformation specialist who enjoys diagnosing complex operational challenges and delivering strategic recommendations.

Key Responsibilities

• Conduct a comprehensive review of the organisation's current payroll function, processes and operating model.
• Assess the efficiency, effectiveness and resilience of existing payroll operations.
• Review payroll governance, controls, compliance and associated risks.
• Evaluate current payroll systems, reporting capabilities and integration with HR and Finance.
• Map end-to-end payroll processes and identify inefficiencies, duplication and opportunities for automation.
• Benchmark the current function against best practice.
• Carry out an options appraisal comparing an in-house payroll model against outsourcing to a managed payroll provider.
• Develop a robust business case outlining the advantages, risks, costs and implementation considerations for each option.
• Present findings and recommendations to senior stakeholders.
• Produce a practical roadmap and implementation plan for the preferred operating model.

Person Specification

We are looking for someone who can demonstrate:

• Significant experience reviewing, transforming or redesigning payroll functions.
• Proven experience leading payroll transformation or operating model reviews.
• Strong understanding of UK payroll legislation, compliance and governance.
• Experience evaluating outsourced payroll providers and managed service models.
• Excellent analytical and process mapping skills.
• Ability to engage credibly with senior Finance, HR and operational stakeholders.
• Strong report writing and presentation skills, with the ability to communicate complex findings clearly.
• Experience within the charity, public sector or other complex organisations would be advantageous, although not essential.
• A proactive, independent consultant who is comfortable working autonomously and delivering recommendations with minimal supervision.

Deliverables

The consultant will be expected to deliver:

• Current state assessment of the payroll function.
• Gap analysis against best practice.
• Risk and controls assessment.
• Options appraisal for in-house versus outsourced payroll.
• Cost-benefit analysis and business case.
• Final recommendations report.
• High-level implementation roadmap for the preferred solution.

This assignment is offered on an Outside IR35 basis and would suit an experienced payroll consultant, payroll transformation specialist, or operational review consultant with a track record of delivering strategic payroll reviews and organisational change.

Our partner is an international non-profit and social enterprise working across Asia to improve access to essential health and rehabilitation services. They are now entering an important stage of organisational development and are seeking an experienced finance systems and project lead to lead an ERP system implementation, and help strengthen financial visibility, reporting, controls and decision-making across their global operations.

Key responsibilities

• Lead the selection, implementation and ongoing management of a new finance / ERP system across regional operations.
• Manage the full systems implementation process, including requirements gathering, vendor engagement, configuration, data migration, testing, training, go-live and post-implementation support.
• Ensure the system supports multi-country, multi-currency operations, donor and investor reporting, country-level management information and group reporting requirements.
• Strengthen financial reporting, budgeting, forecasting, variance analysis and performance reporting across country operations.
• Improve visibility of costs, margins, cashflow, financial drivers and operational performance to support decision-making.
• Work with country teams to strengthen financial controls, expense management, reporting processes and day-to-day operational finance practices.
• Build finance systems capability across country teams through training, mentoring and practical support.
• Support financial planning and systems design for new country operations, expansion and organisational growth.

Person specification

The successful candidate will bring:

• Strong experience leading finance systems, ERP implementation or significant financial systems improvement projects.
• A professional accounting qualification, or equivalent senior finance and systems experience.
• Strong financial management skills, including reporting, budgeting, forecasting, analysis and controls.
• Experience working across multi-country and multi-currency environments, preferably within an international not for profit organisation.
• Strong project management skills, including planning, delivery, stakeholder management, risk management and practical problem-solving.
• Experience supporting finance teams through change, including training, mentoring and building system adoption.
• Excellent communication skills and the ability to work effectively across cultures, time zones and different levels of finance capability.
• Experience working in South or Southeast Asia, or comparable international contexts, would be highly beneficial.
• Experience in organisations combining charitable, development, commercial or social enterprise objectives would also be helpful.

Ways of working

• The organisation is open to considering different working models, depending on the right person’s experience and availability. This could be a salaried appointment or a consultancy arrangement, and may be full-time or part-time.
• There is a defined overall budget for the role, and the final structure, time commitment and remuneration will be shaped around the preferred candidate’s experience, availability and proposed approach.
• The role is remote, with flexible working arrangements across time zones. Regular international travel to regional operations across South East Asia will be an important part of the role, with work-related travel expenses and per diems covered.

Head of Financial Accounting
£65,000 - £70,000
Permanent | Full-time
Fully Remote Working

Our client is a globally recognised organisation with operations across multiple countries and a strong reputation for delivering meaningful impact worldwide. As part of an exciting period of development and continuous improvement, they are looking to appoint an experienced and technically strong Head of Financial Accounting to lead financial accounting, statutory reporting and audit activities across the organisation.
This is an excellent opportunity for a qualified accountant with a strong audit and financial reporting background to take ownership of a broad remit, lead a high-performing team and play a key role in strengthening financial control, governance and compliance.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead financial accounting policies, processes and controls, ensuring compliance with UK accounting standards and other relevant international reporting requirements.
• Oversee the preparation and review of annual statutory accounts and financial statements, ensuring accuracy, completeness and compliance with legal and regulatory requirements.
• Lead the planning, preparation and delivery of annual external audits, managing relationships with auditors and driving continuous improvement through audit action plans.
• Provide expert technical accounting guidance across the business, embedding best practice and supporting the development of finance teams.
• Oversee quarterly balance sheet reviews, ensuring the accuracy and integrity of financial data and implementing corrective actions where required.
• Support governance and reporting requirements, including contributions to senior leadership, board and committee reporting.
• Manage and develop the Financial Accounting team, fostering a culture of accountability, collaboration and continuous improvement.
• Review and oversee key tax compliance activities, including VAT and other statutory reporting requirements.
• Partner with finance, operational and project teams to ensure financial accounting implications are considered in strategic initiatives and organisational change programmes.

Who Are We Looking For?

• ACA qualified accountant (or equivalent) with a strong technical accounting background.
• Previous experience gained within a leading audit practice and/or a large, complex organisation.
• Extensive knowledge of UK GAAP and statutory reporting requirements.
• Proven experience leading external audits and managing auditor relationships.
• Strong leadership and people management skills, with a track record of developing high-performing teams.
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving abilities with the confidence to interpret and communicate complex accounting matters.
• Strong stakeholder management skills, with the ability to influence and build relationships across all levels of an organisation.
• Experience of improving financial processes, controls and reporting frameworks.
• Advanced Excel and financial systems knowledge.

If you are a technically strong financial accountant looking for a leadership role where you can drive best practice, influence senior decision-making and lead a high-performing team, we would be delighted to hear from you.

Project Manager (CEO)

Following many years of exceptional service, which has seen Durham City Youth Project (DCYP) grow and develop, our current Project Manager (CEO) is stepping down from her post.  The DCYP trustees seek to appoint a Professionally Qualified and Experienced Project Manager (CEO) who can demonstrate passion and enthusiasm to lead the Project into the next stage of its development.

DCYP has been supporting children and young people since 1933. We work across County Durham to provide youth work, counselling, sexual health education and wellbeing support for young people aged 8–19, and up to 25 for those with additional needs.

Our mission is to create opportunities that help young people develop confidence, resilience, skills and aspirations while ensuring they have access to trusted adults, positive activities and support when they need it most.

We believe every young person deserves the opportunity to thrive regardless of their background, circumstances or challenges.

Hours: 35 hours a week to work regular evenings and weekends
Salary: £33k – 37k per annum
Holidays: 6.5 weeks holiday (pro rata), inclusive of  bank holidays
Based: Across County Durham
Benefits: Company pension scheme
Occupational sick pay
Ongoing training and professional development
A supportive and flexible working environment

Durham City Youth Project is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. Appointment will be subject to satisfactory references and an enhanced DBS check.

The Isles of Scilly Wildlife Trust is seeking an experienced finance professional to lead its financial management and oversee the organisation's operational functions. This is a senior leadership role supporting the Trust's continued growth, financial resilience, and conservation mission. The position can be based remotely, with travel to the Isles of Scilly as needed.

What Makes This Role Unique

• Opportunity to join the senior leadership team of a respected conservation charity. 
• Flexible full-time or part-time arrangement. 
• Remote working (with some travel to the Isles of Scilly as required) will be considered.
• Broad influence across finance, operations, governance and organisational development. 
• Chance to contribute to nationally significant conservation projects, including the Isles of Scilly Seabird Recovery Project. 

Our Ideal Candidate
The successful candidate will be:

• A qualified (or nearly qualified) accountant. 
• Collaborative and approachable. 
• Highly organised with strong attention to detail. 
• Comfortable working strategically while also managing day-to-day financial 
• operations. 
• Passionate about conservation and supporting the Trust's mission. 
• Motivated to help a growing charity strengthen its systems and long-term 
• sustainability. 

Overall, this is a senior finance leadership role with significant operational responsibilities, suited to someone who enjoys combining strong financial stewardship with organisational improvement in a mission-driven charity.

For the full list of key responsibilities please see the job description.

CVs will not be accepted, please visit IoSWT website to download the application form

About Us

Our mission is to keep Scilly special – to protect the islands’ unique heritage, particularly its native wildlife, ensuring that this heritage can be enjoyed by all.

We look after around half of the Isles of Scilly, making sure that Scilly stays special. We help wildlife thrive and provide opportunities for us all to enjoy nature.

If you have any questions, or would like to talk about this role, please find our contact details in the job description.

Head of Finance

Salary£80,000.00 per annum

LocationLondon/Hybrid (with 1 to 2 days a week in the office)

Weekly Hours35

The Vacancy

Job Title: Head of Finance

Location: London/Hybrid (with 1 to 2 days a week in the office)

Salary: £80,000.00 per annum

Weekly Hours: 35

Reference: YMC1228366

About Us

Founded in 1844, YMCA is a global movement and the world's largest youth-focused charity.  In England and Wales, YMCAs are based in over 700 communities across 168 local authorities supporting young people and communities to reach their potential. The turnover of YMCA in 2025-26 was £386m. YMCA England & Wales is a £23 million organisation of more than 400 colleagues, supporting a Federation of 80 local YMCAs to deliver vital services which positively impact young lives across the country. As we grow our income and impact, we are seeking an established and inspirational Head of Finance to take on one of the most pivotal roles in our organisation.

The Opportunity

This is a senior leadership appointment, reporting to the Director of Resources and leading a Finance team of around nine, including the payroll function. You will act as our lead on all matters of finance, liaising with our Federation members where necessary, providing expert support to our Income Generation Directorate (Fundraising and Retail) and other internal Directorates, embedding financial insight into revenue-generation strategy and working in close collaborative partnership with senior colleagues both within those teams but also across the Federation. Beyond this, you will oversee statutory reporting, investments, VAT and taxation compliance, and provide expert counsel to our Board of Trustees and Finance and Audit Committee.

Why You

Perhaps you have already established an excellent track record within a charity with significant fundraising and retail operations and are ready for the scale and influence this role commands. Or perhaps this is your first move into a charity; you are a seasoned accountant whose clients have included charitable organisations, and you now plan to apply that expertise where it matters most. Either way, this is a genuine opportunity to shape the financial future of a movement with over 180 years of heritage as we continue to embed strong financial practices whilst delivering our strategic ambition

What We're Looking For

You will be a fully qualified accountant (ICAEW, ACCA, CIMA or CIPFA) with senior management experience leading finance in an organisation of comparable scale, ideally with charity reporting and SORP knowledge. Strong business partnering skills, gravitas with trustees and committees, and genuine collaborative leadership are essential to succeed in this crucial role.

Our recruitment process is anonymised and candidates' names are hidden. We welcome and encourage job applications from people of all backgrounds. Safer recruitment is important to us and the successful applicant will be asked to provide two references. They will also be required to complete a safeguarding self-declaration, safeguarding training and undertake a DBS check

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 part or fully qualified, with at least 4 years’ progressive experience supporting 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. You will be dynamic and keen to move to the next stage in your career, you are 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

Previous applicants need not apply again.

About us

We are a long-established UK research institution with charitable status and accounting operations in both the UK and East Africa. With an annual turnover of over £1 million, our finances span two entities and a range of restricted and unrestricted funds, consolidated for reporting. We are looking for a qualified accountant to join us as a contractor in a part-time, ongoing capacity to strengthen the running of our finance function.

The role

Our accountant in the East Africa office handles the day-to-day transactions — raising invoices, recording expenses and paying supplier bills. You will work alongside them, providing the qualified oversight, payment control and monthly discipline that keep the finance function running well, and supporting their development along the way.

It is a varied role that combines hands-on accuracy with oversight and coaching. In practice, you will:

• Support, guide and coach our accountant so that accounting entries are made correctly and consistently, building their skills over time.

• Run payment preparation and approval process in the UK entity, approving payment runs for release by local signatories.

• Financial management of project funds: accounting, expense management, funds transfers and accurate financial reporting.

• Review monthly results and report, examining the Statement of Financial Activities and underlying entries, and tracking performance against budget.

• Own the budgeting process, maintaining and updating the existing annual budget and monitoring it each month, and reporting quarterly to funders.

• Run a reliable monthly close and provide cover for our accountant during leave or absence to keep the accounting running.

• Lead on risk, taking an active interest in risk assessment, management and internal financial controls, working with compliance officer for local regulatory compliance.

• Attend and co-ordinate the finance and development meeting, support Companies House and Charity Commissions returns and updates.

• Administrative support for grant applications and management of these.

Key requirements

• Qualified accountant (ACCA, CIMA, ACA or CIPFA), or a finalist with strong relevant experience.

• Right to work in the UK.

• Proficient in Xero, and either proficient in Joiin or a similar consolidation system such as Hyperion and able to learn it quickly. Familiarity with payment platforms (desirable).

• Sound understanding of payment controls, dual authorisation and segregation of duties.

• Experience of maintaining a budget and reviewing monthly performance against it.

• Detail-focused and hands-on, with the judgement to review, oversee and coach a colleague.

• Charity or non-profit experience is useful but not essential, including experience of managing project funds, expenses and reporting to funders.

What does success look like

In this role, success means:

• Accounting is accurate and correctly recorded across both entities.

• Monthly review and reporting is completed reliably and on time.

• The budget process is mastered and embedded in monthly reporting, with performance tracked against budget categories.

• Dual authorisation of key processes is operating successfully.

• Key processes in both entities are learnt, so you can cover for the East Africa accountant in the event of absence.

• The payment process is smooth, reviewed, and presented to the Director for second approval.

• Risk assessment is formalised and internal financial controls are maintained.

Who it suits

This role would suit an accountant who wants to broaden their range of experience, or an experienced accountant from the commercial or non-profit sector who now wishes to work part-time and contribute to the smooth running of a respected institution.

Our systems

We use Xero for our accounting and Joiin for consolidated reporting. Both are already implemented and stable. Proficiency in Joiin is ideal; otherwise, experience of a similar system and a readiness to learn this software quickly is an advantage.

How to apply

Please send your CV with a short covering note explaining your interest and how your experience fits the key requirements above. We will review applications on a rolling basis and may close early if we find the right candidate.

Head of Finance

Reports to: Director of Finance, Data and Innovation

Line reports: 2

Location: London, hybrid working, with minimum 40% of working time in the office

Salary: London £54,000 (salary band £54,000 - £58000; Outside London £51,500 (salary band £51,500 to £55,500)

Hours: 37.5 hours per week

Contract: Permanent

The Head of Finance will lead the day-to-day finance function, ensuring our financial information is accurate, timely and useful. The role will oversee financial reporting, controls, compliance, payroll, budgeting and forecasting, while managing and developing the finance team. The postholder will work closely with budget holders and senior leaders to support good financial decision-making across the organisation. The role will also provide oversight of key operational areas, including premises, health and safety, equipment and outsourced technology support.

In the first 6–12 months, the postholder will be expected to strengthen monthly reporting, improve budget holder support, maintain clear financial controls, support the annual audit and help embed effective finance processes across the organisation.

Financial responsibilities

· Ensure that all financial data is accurately recorded, maintained and reported in accordance with relevant accounting standards and guidelines

· Ensure compliance with relevant financial, tax and statutory obligations, including VAT, PAYE and other reporting requirements

· Lead financial business partnering across the organisation, ensuring budget holders have the knowledge, skills and tools to manage their budgets effectively. This will include:

• • Running effective budgeting and forecasting processes to ensure the organisation has a robust plan
  • Producing monthly management accounts with useful variance analysis to ensure proper financial management

· Alongside the Director of Finance, develop and maintain financial controls to safeguard the charity’s assets, ensuring clear processes are in place and control checks are documented

· Take full management responsibility for the finance team, lead, motivate and develop them to ensure that they are focused, competent and working effectively and efficiently

· Maintain clear review and approval processes so that financial work is properly checked, authorised and documented

· Oversee finance processes for the trading subsidiary, including reviewing postings, accounts and consolidation entries

· Produce or review monthly payroll amounts and postings

· Lead preparation for the annual audit and statutory accounts, ensuring working papers, reconciliations and supporting evidence are complete and accurate

· Ensure restricted funds, grants and project income are recorded, monitored and reported accurately

Operations

· Ensure premises and properties are managed appropriately on a day-to-day basis

· Ensure we comply with H&S standards in our multiple offices

· Ensure the organisation has the resources it needs to do their job through the procurement/ provision of laptops and other equipment

· Work with colleagues to ensure we comply with GDPR

Person specification: Skill / experience 

Essential

A demonstrable interest and commitment to working with, and supporting people from, a refugee background

Financial and Operational Responsibilities

Strong management accounting experience, including business partnering with budget holders to support good decision-making

Good understanding of UK charity accounting, including charity SORP, audit and year-end reporting

Professional accounting qualification or substantial relevant accounting experience

Management experience and ability to support and develop line reports in a welcoming and inclusive environment 

Understanding of key compliance areas relevant to charity finance and operations, including VAT, Gift Aid, PAYE, P11D and GDPR

Good understanding of charity controls and risk management

Advanced Microsoft Excel skills, strong experience using finance systems (we currently use Xledger) and an interest in AI

Experience of charity fund accounting, including restricted funds and grant reporting

Experience of managing/supporting in the management of outsourced technology providers 

Personal Traits

Able to improve processes and deliver practical changes that make finance easier to use across the organisation

Able to manage competing priorities and maintain high standards during busy periods

Self-motivated, organised and able to deliver agreed outcomes on time

Analytical thinker with good problem-solving skills

Practical, flexible and willing to support both strategic and day-to-day finance work

Excellent verbal and written communication skills with the ability to articulate complex information to different audiences

Strong interpersonal and collaboration skills, with the ability to form effective working relationships with other teams

Desirable

Committed to continuous improvement and the use of agile tools to support business change

Considerations 

· As part of our safeguarding commitment to our clients, we carry out pre-employment checks to ensure that successful applicants are suitable to work with adults at risk. These include basic DBS checks for some roles, obtaining references and verifying a candidate’s identity and right to work in the UK.

· We are an equal opportunities employer and welcome applications from all suitably qualified persons regardless of age, disability, gender reassignment, sex, sexual orientation, marriage and civil partnership status, pregnancy and maternity status, race, religion or belief.

Breaking Barriers is committed to protecting an adult’s right to live in safety, free from abuse and neglect and for their views, wishes and beliefs to be fully considered when deciding action.