Lead project accountant jobs

This is a unique opportunity to join an influential organisation working in an increasingly challenging external environment. If you like to be both hands on and strategic, have an in depth knowledge of charity finance, experience of leading effective enabling functions in a small organisation and are passionate about social justice then this could be the home for you in your next role. 

We are looking for an experienced and collaborative leader to work with the CEO and a new leadership team to embed new ways of working following a period of change for the charity. 

You will lead a small team to deliver a supportive and modern experience for our people; effective IT and governance support; manage our fundraising and implement a robust project management approach. This role will be based for two days per week in our office in Hoxton.

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.

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.

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.

Management Accountant

Location:  St Vincent's Bradford, BD3 0DZ

Salary:  Up to £50,000 per annum DOE

Vacancy Type: Full Time, 12-month fixed term

Closing Date: 16th August 2026

Interviews: 19th and 20th August 2026

We are looking for an experienced and qualified Management Accountant to join our Finance team on a 12-month fixed term contract to cover maternity leave. This is an exciting opportunity for a proactive finance professional who enjoys working with complex financial information, building strong relationships with stakeholders and providing insightful financial support that helps drive organisational success.

Reporting to the Head of Finance, you will be responsible for producing accurate and timely monthly management accounts across the Society's nationally managed activities. These include National Office operations, our network of charity shops and furniture stores, advice and support centres, supported accommodation services and our Trading Subsidiary.

Working closely with budget holders, managers and colleagues across the Society, you'll provide expert financial advice, support budgeting and forecasting, monitor financial performance and help ensure strong financial governance across the organisation.

This is a varied and rewarding role that combines technical accounting expertise with business partnering, continuous improvement and the opportunity to contribute to the Society's mission of supporting people experiencing poverty and hardship.

Key Responsibilities

• Prepare accurate monthly management accounts for all nationally managed projects within agreed timescales.
• Lead the preparation and presentation of the Trading Subsidiary management accounts.
• Produce monthly financial reports, variance analysis and management information for a range of stakeholders.
• Work closely with managers and budget holders to develop, monitor and review budgets, identifying corrective actions where required.
• Support the preparation of annual statutory accounts, consolidated accounts and audit working papers, acting as the primary contact for external auditors.
• Perform monthly balance sheet reconciliations and ensure discrepancies are investigated and resolved promptly.
• Complete quarterly inter-Society reconciliations to support accurate financial consolidation.
• Process and reconcile recharges between projects.
• Produce financial trend analysis and performance reporting to support informed decision-making.
• Review Finance Operations activities relating to income processing, accounts payable, banking and membership, ensuring agreed KPIs are achieved.
• Monitor financial transactions across shops and projects, identifying and escalating any potential irregularities.
• Provide timely financial advice and excellent customer service to managers and colleagues across the Society.
• Support the development and implementation of robust financial systems, controls and processes.
• Maintain accurate financial records, including fixed asset registers, lease information and project records.
• Ensure compliance with Society financial policies and procedures across all projects.
• Deputise for the Head of Finance when required.
• Build and maintain positive working relationships with colleagues, project teams and stakeholders across the Society.

About You

Essential criteria:

• Fully qualified accountant (ACCA, ACA or CIMA).
• At least three years' experience in a management accounting role.
• Experience producing accurate management accounts within a complex organisational structure.
• Advanced Microsoft Excel skills, including functions such as SUMIFS, VLOOKUP/XLOOKUP and Pivot Tables.
• Excellent analytical skills with the ability to interpret financial information and identify trends.
• Exceptional attention to detail and a commitment to maintaining high levels of accuracy.
• Strong organisational and time management skills, with the ability to manage competing priorities and meet deadlines.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to explain financial information clearly to both finance and non-finance colleagues.
• A proactive approach with the ability to work independently, solve problems and continuously improve processes.
• Commitment to supporting the aims, values and mission of the St Vincent de Paul Society.

Desirable criteria:

• Experience working within the charity, voluntary or retail sectors.
• Experience working with auditors, business advisers and Boards or Committees.
• An active interest in the charitable and voluntary sector.

Why Join Us?

You’ll be part of a supportive, mission-driven team committed to making a difference in communities across the UK. We offer flexible working, opportunities for professional development, and a chance to contribute to meaningful projects.

To Apply

If you feel you are a suitable candidate and would like to work for St Vincent de Paul Society, please click apply to be redirected to our website to complete your application.

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. 

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.

About the role

This is a role for an experienced financial leader who can think strategically to ensure financial sustainability and resilience. You will enjoy being part of a mission driven team, be able to translate numbers into insight, and understand the importance of relationships, collaboration and trust.

Who We Are

Merton Connected strengthens the voluntary, community and faith sector and supports organisations across the borough through training, advice, volunteering and partnership building. We pioneered social prescribing in Merton, now embedded in every GP practice for over a decade, and deliver services including Healthwatch Merton, the Home Visits Library and Merton Giving, the borough’s place-based giving scheme. 

Our new 2025–2030 Strategy sets out a bold vision: A borough recognised for resilience, inclusion and community connection. To achieve this, we need strong internal foundations, and that includes a confident, people‑centred Finance Manager who can help us grow sustainably, work collaboratively, and prepare for the challenges facing the sector.

Our strategy commits us to being:

• A Convenor - bringing people together.
• A Capacity Builder - strengthening organisations.
• An Incubator - developing new ideas.
• An Amplifier - making community voices heard.

 To deliver this, we need financial leadership that is:

• Strategic but not disruptive
• Supportive, not siloed.
• Collaborative, not transactional
• Forward looking and resilient

You will help ensure Merton Connected remains financially strong, transparent, and sustainable for the future while maintaining excellent relationships with partners, funders, commissioners and community organisations.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

 Strategic Financial Leadership

• Support long term financial planning, scenario modelling, and risk management, including exploring income diversification.
• Ensure financial systems remain proportionate, efficient, and aligned with our strategic pillars.
• Help the organisation prepare for sector wide challenges such as rising demand, funding pressures, and increased complexity.
• Support the Quarterly Finance Sub Committee Meetings and attend Board Meetings

 Annual Accounts and Audit

• Prepare year‑end accounts in line with the Charities SORP.
• Work closely with auditors to ensure a smooth, timely audit process.
• Draft the financial commentary for the Trustees’ Annual Report.
• Ensure compliance with legal and regulatory requirements, including Charity Commission, Companies House, and HMRC.

Oversight of Day to Day Finance Operations

• Produce clear, accurate quarterly management accounts and cash flow forecasts with meaningful commentary.
• Work closely with the Assistant Accountant, providing them with support and direction.
• Maintain oversight of income, expenditure, payroll, reconciliations, and journals.
• Ensure robust tracking of restricted funds, project budgets, and grant reporting.
• Strengthen internal controls and financial procedures.

 Building Strong Relationships Across the Organisation

• Work collaboratively with department leads, supporting them to understand budgets and forecasts.
• Communicate financial information to colleagues and the Board in a clear, supportive, and accessible way.
• Contribute to a positive, team‑centred culture that reflects our values of Empowering, Collaborative and Inclusive.

 Customer relations with partners and funders

• Provide timely, accurate financial information for commissioners, funders, and partners.
• Build confidence with stakeholders through professionalism, clarity, and responsiveness.
• Support collaborative funding bids, shared investment pathways, and partnership‑led projects - aligning with our Convenor and Incubator roles.

 Support innovation and organisational development

• Work with Head of Operations to develop and embed robust and effective financial systems
• Help us test new approaches, pilot ideas, and strengthen our internal resilience.
• Ensure financial systems support accurate and timely information, as well as innovation and collaboration.
• Contribute to business planning, strategic development, and organisational learning.

PERSON SPECIFICATION

 Essential

• Qualified accountant (ACA, ACCA, CIMA or equivalent).
• Experience producing management accounts and year‑end accounts in the charity sector.
• Strong understanding of restricted funds, project accounting, and the Charities SORP.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills - able to build trust with colleagues, trustees, and partners.
• A collaborative, team‑centred approach.
• Ability to think strategically and anticipate future challenges.
• Commitment to our values: Empowering, Collaborative, Inclusive.
• Ability to present reports to the Finance Sub Committee and Board
• Ability to represent the organisation with funders stakeholders when needed.
• Familiarity with MS Office applications including Word, Excel, Teams and Sharepoint
• Commitment to confidentiality, safeguarding, equality and diversity.

Desirable

• Experience in infrastructure, health, community, or multi funded charities.
• Familiarity with NHS/ICB (Integrated Care Board)  funded programmes or local authority contracts.
• Experience with cloud based accounting systems such as Xero, Sage or QuickBooks
• Understanding of the voluntary sector landscape and its emerging pressures.

Who This Role Is Perfect For

Someone who:

• Brings solid charity financial management and reporting experience.
• Enjoys being part of a friendly, purpose‑driven team.
• Communicates well with non‑finance colleagues.
• Can balance strategic thinking with hands‑on oversight.
• Values relationships as much as spreadsheets.
• Wants to help build a more resilient, connected, and inclusive Merton 

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.

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.

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.

A fantastic opportunity has arisen for a Finance Manager – Accounts and Strategy with a museum on a full-time, 12-month FTC basis. As Finance Manager – Accounts and Strategy, you will lead the delivery of high-quality financial management, strategic planning and management information services across the museum.

Reporting to the Head of Finance, you will lead a team of finance professionals and play a pivotal role in shaping financial strategy, ensuring robust financial controls, and supporting organisational decision-making. The postholder will act as the museum's recognised authority on accounting, compliance and financial reporting, while driving continuous improvement across systems, processes and performance management.

Please note, there is hybrid working in place with this organisation with 2 days per week required in their London office.

As Finance Manager – Accounts and Strategy, you will:

- Lead, motivate and develop the Management Accountants team and Planning & Management Information Coordinator, ensuring the delivery of a high-quality finance service across the museum

- Oversee the preparation of management accounts, budgeting, forecasting and financial reporting, providing accurate and insightful information to support decision-making

- Lead the annual audit process and year-end reporting, acting as the key point of contact for external auditors and ensuring all statutory reporting obligations are met

- Drive continuous improvement across financial processes, controls and systems, identifying opportunities to enhance efficiency, governance and compliance

- Provide expert financial advice on accounting, tax, regulatory matters and major museum projects, supporting strategic and operational decision-making

- Support the development and delivery of museum-wide strategy, operating plans and performance reporting, ensuring financial considerations are embedded in long-term planning and organisational priorities

The successful applicant will:

- Have significant demonstrable experience in finance, in a similar role (have proven experience operating within a complex organisation, with the ability to deliver high-quality financial management, reporting and strategic support)

- Be a fully qualified accountant (ACA, CIMA, ACCA etc)

- Have line management experience (demonstrable ability to manage a diverse range of individuals to create a motivated team)

- Have strong technical knowledge of accounting standards, financial reporting, audit, tax, VAT and regulatory compliance

- Be experienced in driving process, systems and control improvements, with a focus on efficiency, compliance and best practice

- Have excellent communication skills, both written and verbal

If this sounds like you and you're keen to hear more, please do get in touch ASAP!

Please note, only successful applicants will be contacted with further information.

As leading charity recruitment specialists and a certified B Corp™, Harris Hill is committed to high and ever-improving standards of equitable and inclusive recruitment. We actively welcome applications from all sections of the community regardless of age, disability, gender, race, religion, sexuality and other protected characteristics.

Natural History Museum
Financial Controller
Salary: £65,000
Contract: Permanent, Full-time (36 hours per week)
Hybrid working: 3 days per week in the office, South Kensington

The Natural History Museum is one of the world's most iconic visitor attractions and a globally respected scientific research centre. Home to over 80 million objects and welcoming more than five million visitors annually, we are uniquely placed to inspire people to care about the natural world and tackle some of the most pressing challenges facing our planet. 
As we continue to deliver our ambitious strategic priorities, we are seeking an experienced and forward-thinking Financial Controller to play a pivotal leadership role within our Finance team.
This is an outstanding opportunity for a qualified finance professional to lead core financial operations, reporting and systems functions while helping shape the Museum's financial strategy and supporting transformational change across the organisation.

About the Role
Reporting to the Head of Finance, the Financial Controller will lead three teams, totalling 12 members of staff, across Financial Accounts, Financial Operations and Finance Systems.
You will be responsible for ensuring the integrity, compliance and effectiveness of the Museum's financial reporting processes, maintaining strong financial controls and delivering excellent finance services across the organisation.

Key Responsibilities
As a key member of the Finance leadership team, you will:

• Lead and develop the Financial Accounts, Financial Operations and Finance Systems teams, ensuring a high-performing, customer-focused finance function. 
• Take overall responsibility for the production of statutory accounts, Whole of Government Accounts (WGA) returns and the successful delivery of the annual external audit process. 
• Ensure compliance with accounting standards, Charity SORP, FReM, VAT and HMRC requirements, maintaining robust financial controls and governance across the Museum. 
• Lead treasury management, cashflow forecasting and stewardship of Museum funds, whilst managing relationships with auditors, government bodies and other external stakeholders. 
• Act as a senior finance leader and deputy to the Head of Finance, providing expert financial advice to senior stakeholders and supporting major projects and strategic initiatives. 
• Drive continuous improvement across finance systems, reporting, policies and processes, ensuring efficient, compliant and effective financial operations.
• Work in partnership with business leads responsible for income generation, providing strategic advice and aligning teams to work with agility to respond to organisational need

About You
We are looking for an experienced and commercially minded finance leader who combines strong technical expertise with excellent stakeholder management and people leadership skills.
You will bring:

• A recognised accounting qualification (ACA, ACCA or CIMA) with significant, demonstrable post-qualification experience
• Proven experience leading and developing finance teams within a complex organisation
• Strong technical accounting knowledge, including statutory reporting, financial controls and governance
• Experience of preparing and presenting financial information to senior leadership and Board-level audiences
• Knowledge of charity accounting, SORP, VAT and HMRC requirements
• Experience overseeing finance systems and driving process improvement initiatives
• Advanced Excel skills and strong analytical capabilities
• Excellent communication skills, with the ability to translate complex financial concepts for non-finance stakeholders
• A proactive, solutions-focused approach and ability to manage competing priorities effectively

Why Join the Natural History Museum?

• 27.5 days annual leave plus public holidays
• Defined contribution pension scheme with up to 10% employer contribution
• Flexible and hybrid working arrangements
• Enhanced family-friendly policies
• Life insurance
• Employee assistance and wellbeing support programmes
• Free admission to our exhibitions and many other paid exhibitions at museums, galleries and institutions across London and the UK.

Apply Now
The Natural History Museum is partnering exclusively with Allen Lane and Iain Slinn on the recruitment of this exciting opportunity. For a confidential discussion and further information, please contact Iain directly.

Area Manager Role

Location: London (field-based with some home working)
Salary: £46,000
Contract: Full Time
Closing Date: 24 August 2026

Join FARA and Help Transform Lives Through Retail

Founded over 35 years ago, FARA Foundation is a UK registered charity and a successful charity retailer with a network of 39 vibrant shops across London. FARA raises vital funds to support vulnerable and disadvantaged children, young people and their families in Romania, providing services that help break the cycles of poverty and give young people a better start in life.

We are looking for an exceptional Area Manager to lead and develop a portfolio of 10+ charity shops, supporting Shop Managers to deliver outstanding commercial results while creating welcoming, community-focused spaces that embody FARA’s values and mission.

This is an exciting opportunity for a commercially-minded and people-focused leader who enjoys developing others, driving performance, and contributing strategically to a charity retail operation.

The Role

Reporting to the Trading Director, you will be responsible for supporting and developing a group of Shop Managers, helping them maximise sales, donations, Gift Aid income and community engagement while ensuring shops operate safely, compliantly and efficiently.

As a member of the Senior Management Team, you will contribute to the wider development of the trading business, lead operational projects, and play a key role in delivering FARA’s long-term retail strategy.

About You

We are looking for someone who can demonstrate the following competencies:

• Values-led leadership: A strong commitment to FARA’s mission, vision and values, with the ability to lead, coach and develop Shop Managers in a supportive, accountable and collaborative way.
• Commercial focus: Experience of achieving results through others, using KPIs, budgets and financial reports to improve sales, contribution, Gift Aid, stock generation and controllable costs.
• People development: Strong line management skills, with experience of recruitment, induction, performance management, succession planning and handling employee relations matters.
• Retail operational excellence: A sound understanding of shop operations, including pricing, culling, density, curation, sales space, sorting, layout and the ability to coach managers to improve the retail proposition.
• Compliance and risk management: Working knowledge of health and safety, risk assessments, fire risk assessments, regulatory requirements and the ability to maintain safe, compliant shops.
• Project and planning skills: Experience supporting target setting, five-year plans, shop improvements, refits, relocations or other operational projects.

Essential Skills & Experience

• Proven experience in an Area Manager, Regional Manager or equivalent multi-site retail role (or demonstrable desire to gain wider experience).
• Strong track record of leading teams to achieve and exceed commercial and operational KPIs.
• Excellent commercial awareness with the ability to analyse financial and operational data.
• Experience in coaching, developing and motivating staff.
• Experience handling employee relations issues, including performance management, disciplinary and grievance matters.
• Knowledge of health and safety, risk management and compliance requirements.
• Strong organisational, planning and project management skills.
• Ability to build effective working relationships across a wide range of stakeholders.
• Proficient IT skills to perform a range of professional functions on excel, word and other applications.

Desirable

• Experience within charity retail or the not-for-profit sector.
• Experience recruiting and managing volunteers.
• Knowledge of retail refurbishment, relocation or property projects.
• Understanding of Gift Aid and donation-led retail operations.
• Full UK driving licence and access to a vehicle.

Additional Information

• Travel across London will be required.
• Participation in an on-call rota approximately one weekend per month will be required.
• Occasional cover for colleagues during periods of annual leave/absence will be required.

How to Apply

If you are an inspiring retail leader who can combine commercial expertise with a passion for people development and social impact, we would love to hear from you.

To apply, please submit a CV and a cover letter (maximum 2 pages) by email outlining how you meet the skills & experience required for the role and why the role excites you.

Join FARA and help us grow a retail operation that changes lives, strengthens communities and delivers lasting impact.

QCCA has served Camden’s communities for more than 40 years.

Today we support more than 3,000 local residents every year through:

• Youth Services
• Older People’s Services
• Advice & Advocacy
• Family Support
• Two successful children’s nurseries
• Community facilities
• Health and wellbeing programmes
• Employment and skills initiatives

With an annual income approaching £2 million, multiple community sites and exciting plans for further growth, we’re investing in a modern finance function that supports excellent decision-making and long-term sustainability.

Why This Role Is Different

This isn’t a traditional Finance Manager role.

Yes, you’ll oversee management accounts, budgets and audit preparation.

But you’ll also have the opportunity to:

• Transform our finance systems.
• Lead our migration from QuickBooks to Xero.
• Introduce smarter digital processes.
• Improve financial reporting.
• Build dashboards that help managers make better decisions.
• Work directly with the Chief Executive and Board of Trustees.
• Influence organisational strategy.
• Help shape the future of one of Camden’s leading community charities.

You’ll have the freedom to improve how we work—not simply maintain existing processes.

What You’ll Be Doing

You’ll provide strategic financial leadership while leading the modernisation of QCCA’s finance systems.

Working closely with our Chief Executive and Senior Management Team, you’ll:

• Lead the migration from QuickBooks to Xero (or an agreed cloud accounting platform).
• Produce insightful monthly management accounts and financial reports.
• Develop budgets, forecasts and financial models.
• Present financial information to Trustees and senior managers.
• Improve financial systems, controls and reporting.
• Introduce automation and digital workflows.
• Support commercial income generation and grant-funded projects.
• Lead the annual audit process.
• Line manage and develop our Finance Assistants.
• Help build a finance function fit for the future.

Who We’re Looking For

We’re looking for someone who enjoys making organisations better.

You’ll probably have experience of:

• Charity finance.
• Management accounting.
• Budgeting and forecasting.
• Audit preparation.
• Financial controls.
• Cloud accounting systems (Xero experience is highly desirable).
• Leading change and improving systems.
• Supporting non-finance managers.
• Working collaboratively with senior leaders and Trustees.

Most importantly, you’ll be someone who enjoys solving problems, embracing technology and helping organisations grow.