Senior financial accountant jobs in London

WORKING WITH US

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

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

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

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

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

ABOUT THIS OPPORTUNITY

We are looking for a Finance Business Partner to support some of our academies with clear financial insight, smart budgeting, and data-driven decision-making. You’ll work closely with Principals and senior leaders, acting as a trusted advisor and helping drive efficiencies across our schools.

If you’re an analytical, confident finance professional with strong stakeholder skills, we’d love to hear from you.

MAIN AREAS OF RESPONSIBILITY

Your responsibilities will include:

Financial Analysis & Reporting

• In-depth Financial Analysis
  • Produce monthly, quarterly, and annual financial reports to assess business performance against targets and trends.
  • Perform analysis to guide strategic decisions.
  • Analyse margin performance, cost drivers, and overheads, recommending opportunities for efficiency and savings.
  • Produce and review monthly balance sheet reconciliations to ensure accuracy and reliability of reports submitted to stakeholders
• Reporting & Commentary
  • Prepare accurate and insightful financial reports including dashboards, variance reports, and commentary for business reviews.
  • Translate raw financial data into actionable insights tailored to specific audiences (e.g. operations managers, Principals, department budget holders).
  • Identify data anomalies and validate results by reconciling figures with source systems.

Business Partnering

• Stakeholder Collaboration
  • Act as a financial advisor to various departments/Schools, supporting them in managing budgets, understanding performance, and planning.
  • Build trusting relationships with stakeholders by being approachable, knowledgeable, and supportive.
• Decision Support
  • Provide financial modelling to support business cases, changes in trends, and contract negotiations.
  • Assist managers in interpreting financial outcomes and guide them on how to improve profitability and efficiency.

Risk Management & Compliance

• Regulatory & Policy Compliance
  • Ensure adherence to relevant UK financial regulations, such as HMRC requirements, Companies Act, and internal financial controls.
  • Monitor adherence to internal financial procedures, policies, and delegated authorities.

For a full list of responsibilities, please download the Job Pack.

WHAT WE ARE LOOKING FOR

We would like to hear from you if you have:

• A Bachelor’s degree in Finance, Accounting, Economics, Business Administration, or a related discipline.
• Part-qualified or fully qualified accountant (e.g., ACCA, CIMA, ACA)
• Commitment to ongoing professional development to remain current with UK financial regulations and best practices.
• A minimum of 3–5 years’ experience in a finance role, ideally with exposure to financial analysis, budgeting, and forecasting.
• Experience in a commercial or multi-site operational environment is advantageous.
• Demonstrable experience working with financial systems such as Oracle, SAP, or equivalent ERP solutions for financial reporting and analysis.

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

APPLYING FOR THIS POSITION

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

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

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

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

OUR VISION & VALUES

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

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

IMPORTANT INFORMATION

Safeguarding Notice

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

Equal Opportunities

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

WHAT WE CAN OFFER YOU

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

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

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

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

Harris Hill is recruiting for a Financial Controller for this Community-Based, Charity based in Central London (Hybrid)

• Position: Full Time, Flexible Working
• Hybrid: A minimum of 2 days a week is required at their offices in Central London, plus Board Meetings.
• Salary: £55.000pa
• Report to: Director of Finance
• Management: 2 Staff
• Qualifications: A Qualified Accountant, or a finalist.
• Essential: Qualified Accountant and Charity SORP experience

PLEASE APPLY IMMEDIATELY. THE CLIENT WOULD LIKE TO INTERVIEW AS SOON AS POSSIBLE

The Role

• Lead the budgeting process, ensuring that all budget holders set realistic budgets, and work with the Director of Finance to ensure that organisational priorities are reflected in proposed budgets.
• Oversee the processing of income and expenditure, and the production of monthly and quarterly management accounts.
• Production of monthly/quarterly management account summaries as required by the Group CEO and any other budget holders.
• Hold budget holders to account for monthly variances, identify and manage financial risk and work with the Director of Finance to minimise the impact on the organisation.
• Work with the Group CEO to ensure that funds are only used in line with the objects/charitable purposes of the organisation, and that checks are in place to ensure income is spent in line with any restrictions.
• Manage cash flow, ensuring organisations remain solvent and reporting on whether organisations are living within their means.
• Ensure financial returns are completed to HMRC, charity commission and companies house and other such bodies in a timely manner.
• Manage the year end finance processes, leading to the production of accurate statutory accounts.
• Oversee the management of any investments.
• Set, communicate and monitor the adherence to appropriate financial policies and procedures, contributing to financial accountability at all levels of the organisation.
• Lead and manage the development of finance systems that are fit for purpose across the group.
• Lead the consolidation of accounts across the group, the production of statutory accounts and work with our external auditors to ensure accounts are signed off in a timely fashion.
• Ensure operates in line with current GAAP and SORP and follows and guidance from the Charity Commission on matters relating to finance.
• Provide reports and commentary to boards and senior management, including the Group finance committee, as appropriate.
• Communicate with our bankers, building a strong working relationship and undertaking investigative work as required.
• Liaise directly with auditors to prove that information within the accounts is correct.

Join the Iona Community as our Financial Administration Team Leader, a pivotal role overseeing the day-to-day operations of our finance department. You will ensure accuracy, compliance, and timely financial processes, supporting the wider organisation and reporting directly to the Head of Community Resources.

We are looking for someone self-motivated, flexible, and able to work independently and as part of a team, experienced in using Xero, with strong organisational skills, attention to detail, and effective time management.

Key Responsibilities include

• Lead the daily operations of the finance administration function
• Support weekly, monthly and year-end processing and reports
• Support for annual audit, respond to queries and collate documentation
• Assist with annual budgeting and provide budget spend reports to senior managers
• Oversee processing of sales ledger, purchase ledger, expenses and monthly journal inputs
• Assist in filing financial, regulatory and legal information with statutory bodies as and when required
• Supervisory responsibility for the Finance Administration Assistant.

Why Join Us?

• Generous holiday allowance — 37 days pro-rata, including public holidays.
• Membership for NEST pension scheme.
• Home working with regular meetings in Govan, Glasgow and occasional meetings on Iona.
• The opportunity to develop our systems
• Friendly colleagues.

Make a Difference

Advocacy is a powerful force for change. It allows individuals to have their voices heard and respected when decisions are being made about their health and social care. It raises awareness of people’s rights and entitlements and empowers people to advocate for themselves.

Why Join Us?

• Be part of a values-led, inclusive charity making a real difference to the people we work with.
• Flexible, home-based working with occasional travel and supportive colleagues.
• Opportunities for professional development and growth.
• A culture that values staff wellbeing, innovation, and amplifying voices.

About the Role

We are looking to recruit a permanent Finance Manager to join our busy finance team, working 30-37 hours per week, minimum 30 hours, ideally over a minimum of 4 days, starting salary £31,634 per annum (pro rata).

As Finance Manager, you will:-

· Provide day-to-day operational leadership of the finance team, including supervision, workload coordination, ongoing  staff development and continuous improvement of processes and procedures.

· Act as the main link between the Finance Director and the Finance Team, translating strategic direction into clear, effective delivery.

· Lead month-end processes including the preparation of accurate management accounts, maintaining strong balance sheet control and exercising sound judgement on complex financial issues.

· Oversee income, credit control, cashflow, short-term forecasting and the administration of the finance system, ensuring data integrity, high-quality management information and appropriate escalation of risks or pressures.

· Support audit preparation and liaise with external auditors as required.

· Work collaboratively with internal and external stakeholders to support financial understanding, compliance and the effective resolution of issues.

· Act as the first point of escalation for operational finance issues, escalating to the Finance Director as appropriate.

About You

We need you to bring:

·AAT Level 4 Qualification or significant equivalent finance experience, with responsibility for management accounts, reconciliations and income monitoring.

· Experience coordinating month-end processes and working across multiple income streams, contracts or funding arrangements.

· Strong analytical skills and sound professional judgement, with the ability to explain financial information clearly to non-finance colleagues and identify financial and organisational risk and escalate issues appropriately.

· Experience supervising or supporting others within a finance setting, with a collaborative leadership style and a commitment to continuous improvement.

· Confidence using financial systems and Microsoft Excel at an intermediate to advanced level, alongside a methodical, organised approach to prioritising work.

· A clear commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion and to the values of The Advocacy People.

The following attributes are also desirable:-

· Experience working in the voluntary or charitable sector, including knowledge of SORP accounting, year-end accounts and liaison with auditors.

· Experience working with local authority contracts or complex funding environments.

· Part-qualified or fully qualified accountant (CIMA, ACCA, ACA) or equivalent experience.

As this role is home based with occasional travel you will need to have access to use of public transport or own car. Flexibility with working hours, a good mobile signal and broadband service are essential.

We're keen to interview great candidates as soon as possible. Interviews may be held as applications come in, and we reserve the right to close the advert early, so don't wait - apply now! 

We look forward to hearing from you!

We are currently looking for a Senior Finance Business Partner to join our Finance team on a full time permanent contract, offering a salary of up to £65,000 per annum. 

The FP&A team provides the link between Finance and the rest of the organisation, recording and analysing data to add value to operational and strategic decision-making and develop the best possible, joined-up, financial management. Our mission is to ensure effective financial and risk management of Southbank Centre and be acknowledged as a key partner in achieving its aims and objectives.

Please download the attached Job Description for a full overview of this role's responsibilities.

The annual salary stated is based on the Full-Time Equivalent (40 hours per week). If the job is part-time, the weekly hours will be stated within the advert.

The deadline for applications is 23:59 on the closing date for the job posting.

Please note, applications sent via Email or 3rd party agencies will not be considered.

Need reasonable adjustments? Please contact us so we can help make the application process accessible to you. Be sure to include the job you are applying for and your full name.

We welcome applications from all backgrounds. By attracting people with diverse attitudes, opinions and beliefs we can continue to look at the world with fresh eyes and find new ways of doing things. The Southbank Centre is a warm and welcoming place to work, with great aspirations and ambitions to create great and accessible work for all. We pride ourselves in building a supportive environment to enable the development of our colleagues.

About MSI

MSI Reproductive Choices is one of the world’s leading providers of sexual and reproductive healthcare. We believe that everyone should have the right to choose. From contraception to safe abortion and life-saving post-abortion care, we are committed to delivering compassionate, affordable, high-quality services for all.

Today, our organisation has almost 9,000 team members working in 36 countries across the world. Our success lies in the fact that MSI teams are locally led, entrepreneurial and results-driven, and are passionate about delivering high quality, client-centred care in their own communities. As a social business, we focus on sustainable delivery, efficiency, and funding models that are built to last, so that the women and girls we serve today will have a choice in the future too.

We know that access to reproductive choice is life changing. For some, it can mean the ability to complete an education or start a career. For others, it means being able to look after the family they already have. For everyone, it means the freedom to decide their own future, creating a fairer, more equal world.

About the Role

The role sits in the Strategic Operations in the International Operations Department, which plays a critical role in the management of our largest and most complex program to ensure it is positioned to deliver results, drive growth with excellence, committed to implementing best practices at scale, while simultaneously adhering to core programmatic and operational standards. The Strategic Operations team reports directly to the Chief Operating Officer and provides strategic, financial and operational support to the Nigeria country program, which delivers one third of MSI’s global contraceptive impact in Africa.

This new role is created to provide support and capacity to Nigeria’s growing donor portfolio and to bolster up both Regional Programme Manager and Associate Director Finance to fulfil financial and operational project management needs. Under the guidance and supervision of the Associate Director for Strategic Operations Finance and in close cooperation with the Regional Programme Manager, you will support the delivery of funded projects in Nigeria by facilitating and ensuring effective project and grant management; supporting financial and narrative donor reporting and overseeing financial processes including business planning, budgeting, monthly performance reviews, forecasting, and risk and compliance. You will be responsible for providing critical financial and risk management support to the MSIN project team, liaise with Donor Finance Team and Global Program and Partnership colleagues to play a key role in analysing and communicating financial results and performance; ensuring system and process efficacy and compliance with MSI quality standards and donor contractual obligations are met.

About You

For us, it’s vital that every MSI team member believes in and is committed to our organisational mission, vision and values.

This means that we will only accept applications from candidates who are unequivocally pro-choice.

Our values act as guiding principles, providing us with a clear direction. They set the tone for how we approach our work, interact with others and align ourselves as ‘One MSI’. It’s important that our team members truly resonate with our values and demonstrate them consistently, in all that they do.

We recruit talented, dynamic individuals with diverse backgrounds who share our mission and are focused on delivering measurable results. As an equal opportunity employer, we are committed to fostering an inclusive workplace where everyone can participate and contribute meaningfully. We value open-mindedness, curiosity, resilience, and a solutions-oriented mindset, alongside a commitment to promoting equality and safeguarding the welfare of both team members and clients.

We seek exceptional communicators who are self-motivated, solutions-driven, and aligned with MSI’s mission and entrepreneurial mindset. You should be dedicated to driving social change in an environment focused on sustainable impact, both locally and globally, and comfortable working with diverse teams in an ambiguous setting.

To perform this role, you’ll need the following skills:

• Effective interpersonal skills, with the ability to lead, motivate and guide finance and project teams
• SUN accounts (ideally), Vision XL and Excel skills
• Ability to communicate effectively both orally and in writing, including with people who do not have a background in finance.
• Proven relationship building skills and ability to work jointly and effectively in cross-cultural setting.
• Strong financial analytical and technical skills and organizational/coordinating capability
• Ability to manage a heavy workload with competing priorities, remaining calm under pressure.
• Desired experience with AI tools

To perform this role, you’ll need the following experience:

• Demonstrated project/financial management experience of large and complex donor-funded grants.
• Knowledge of donor regulations, policies and procedures.
• Ability to produce, deliver and present meaningful financial analysis and recommend appropriate actions to enhance organizational performance
• Experience of solving complex issues through analysis, definition of a clear way forward and ensuring buy-in from the necessary stakeholders
• Demonstration of ‘making things happen’, operating at pace and delivering effectively through others
• Ability to initiate, develop and maintain relationships with staff, peers and external stakeholders at a senior level
• Experience of developing and embedding processes, systems and tools.

Formal education/qualification

• Part Qualified accountant or higher
• Degree-educated or equivalent
• Advanced level of Excel

Please see job description on our website. 

Location: London, UK (minimum of 2 days per week in the office to be pro-rated (i.e. 1 day in office for the part-time nature of this position))

Full-time: 21 hours per week (3 days per week 0.6 FTE) with a possibility to become full time and/or permanent 

Contract type: Fixed term contract until 31st March 2028.

Salary: £50,000 - £55,000 per annum for candidates based in the UK – please note this salary will be pro-rated for the 21 hours (3 days) per week.

Salary band: BG 9 MP

Closing date: 19th March 2026 (midnight GMT). Interviews may take place before this date for exceptional candidates.

The Director of Finance & Corporate Services is a new post for the East London Mosque Trust (ELMT). The Director of Finance will lead the Trust’s financial strategy, planning, and operations. This pivotal role will oversee the day to day financial transactions and ensure compliance while driving financial sustainability, transparency, innovation, and long term growth. The post holder will work closely with the CEO, the Senior Management Team, and the Trustees to help shape the future direction of the organisation. As one of the largest mosques and Islamic centres in the UK, it is imperative to build capacity in the leadership team to deliver effective, informed, strategic financial decisions to support the future sustainability of the ELMT.

Responsible to: CEO

Director of Finance & Corporate Services

The Director of Finance & Corporate Services is responsible for the proper conduct of all aspects of the day to day financial management of the ELMT.

Finance Management

• Oversee budgeting, forecasting, and financial reporting processes.
• Ensure robust financial controls and compliance with charity regulations and accounting standards.
• Manage cash flow, reserves, and funding streams including grants, donations, and contracts.
• Maintain an annual and a five-year financial forecast to underpin the strategic objectives.
• Responsibile for managing ELMT’s investments, while developing and implementing strategies for maximising ELMT’s finances.
• Manage and develop the finance team, fostering a culture of accountability, excellence and continuous improvement.
• Collaborate across departments to support financial literacy and budget ownership.

Governance & Compliance

• Prepare financial reports for CEO/SMT, the Board of Trustees and funders.
• Ensure compliance with The Charity Commission, HMRC, and Companies House requirements.
• Lead on audit preparation and liaise with external auditors.
• Lead on digital transformation for financial arrangements.
• Ensure there is a knowledge/awareness of fraud across the organisation.
• Ensure good risk management.

Finance, Sustainability & Compliance

• Optimise financial controls and processes in order to minimise financial risks, and ensure organisational compliance.
• Ensure compliance with funding agreements across all the teams and services.
• Ensure monthly reconciliation of all control accounts including creditors, debtors, payroll and banks; the preparation of monthly management accounts; and preparation/maintenance of control over all non-transactional journals such as accruals, prepayments, fixed assets/depreciation.
• A sound understanding of Islamic financial principles and their application within a charitable and governance context.
• Lead the strategic financial planning process, delivering annual and forecast budget plans, periodic forecasts within year and funding requirements, working closely with CEO and SMT.
• Plan and coordinate all tax, finance and treasury management practice and policy, with reference to charitable status, cash management and investments, reviewing and reporting on investment portfolios on a monthly basis.
• Ensure monthly payroll is accurate and timely, including all matters related to HMRC, and PAYE submissions.
• Have a full oversight of contracting and procurement activities and procedures, ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements, always seeking value for money, and where possible, cost saving opportunities.
• Check the condition of all assets and conduct an ongoing review of whether assets and investments are being put to best use and serving the organisation’s interests.
• Work with the CEO to identify new revenue-generating tactics.
• Responsible for the preparation of annual accounts to prescribed standards, managing effective relationships with the auditors, taking responsibility for the completion and submission of statutory/regulatory reporting in line with prescribed timelines, and keeping up to date with regulatory and statutory requirements within the charity sector.
• Lead on The Charity Commission reporting, including the annual review/trustee report and updating the organisation’s information held by The Charity Commission and Companies House.

Operational Excellence

• Review and improve organisational processes across ELMT, including Operations, Facilities, HR and Policy, ensuring they are efficient, effective and aligned with best practice.
• Identify and propose practical improvements to systems, policies and ways of working, driving internal efficiency and increasing organisational impact.
• Ensure alignment between systems, policies and processes, enabling departments to work effectively together and supporting ELMT’s strategic objectives.
• Over time, take on broader responsibility across departments, particularly in strengthening processes and embedding sustainable efficiencies.

Information Technology Management

• Devise and establish IT policies and systems to support the implementation of strategies set by upper management, including Data Protection and Cyber Security.
• Keep abreast of changes and updates to Data Protection legislation and ensure that staff receive regular training on Data Protection and Cyber security
• Evaluate the company systems and processes to coincide with the needs of the organisation
• Decide the need for upgrades, configurations or new systems and report to upper management.
• Direct the management of the ELMT website.
• Oversee the IT service provision ensuring it meets the ongoing needs of ELMT.
• Manage and develop the IT team, fostering a culture of accountability and continuous improvement.

General

• Deputise for the CEO as necessary, including assuming delegated leadership, decision-making, and representational responsibilities as appropriate.
• Represent the organisation externally as required, including with partners, stakeholders, and relevant bodies.
• Maintain and develop organisational culture, values and reputation with all staff, associates and external stakeholders.
• Work flexibly and undertake any other duties agreed between you and the Board of Trustees.
• Support projects of the ELMT and participate in multi-disciplinary, cross-organisational groups and project teams.
• Attend Senior Management Team (SMT), staff and committee meetings when required.

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

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

Main Duties:

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

Person Specification:

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

________

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

The Opportunity 

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

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

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

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

Contract: Full-time, Permanent

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

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

Key Responsibilities:

1. Finance:

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

2. Operations:

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

3. Strategic Responsibilities:

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

4. Line Management

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

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

Person Specification:

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

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

Technical knowledge, understanding and experience required:

Essential:

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

Desirable:

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

See attached job description for more detail on the person specification

Ways of working:

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

Benefits

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

How to Apply

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

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

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

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

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

Responsibilities

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

Requirements

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

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

Finance Manager at Reading Students’ Union 

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

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

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

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

About Reading Students’ Union 

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

The Role: Finance Manager 

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

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

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

What you’ll do:  

Financial Reporting & Data-Driven Insight 

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

Financial Planning & Business Partnering 

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

Operational Finance Management 

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

Systems, Controls & Compliance 

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

Risk, Governance & Assurance

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

Leadership & Collaboration 

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

About You  

Essential 

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

Desirable: 

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

Why Join Us? 

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

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

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

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

We’re looking for an exceptional Head of Finance to lead our financial strategy and ensure Citizens Advice in West Sussex remains robust, resilient, and ready for the future. 

Who We Are 

With 40,000 people supported each year, 240 volunteers, 70+ staff and a £2.5m+ portfolio, CAWS is a leading local charity delivering advice and driving positive social change across West Sussex. We champion fairness, reduce inequality, and empower people to navigate life’s challenges. 

The Role 

As Head of Finance, you’ll be a key member of our Senior Leadership Team, shaping our financial strategy, strengthening our income generation plans, and ensuring our systems and controls are high performing and compliant. 

You’ll lead our finance function day-to-day, partner with teams across the organisation, build budgets for services and new projects, provide insight to support decision-making, and present reports to our CEO and Board. On occasion, you’ll also deputise for the CEO and play a central role in delivering business priorities. 

About You 

We’re seeking a strategic, solutions focused finance professional with strong technical expertise and a passion for using financial stewardship to create meaningful community impact who has: 

• a recognised accountancy qualification, 

• proven experience in budgeting, financial planning and charity accounts, 

• excellent communication skills

Altum Consulting is pleased to be partnering with Quadrature Climate Foundation (QCF) in its search for a new Finance Business Partner to join its expanding team in London.

QCF was established in 2019 by the founders of Quadrature Capital to scale bold, long-term solutions to the climate crisis. Via partner organisations, it supports transformative action across climate, poverty, inequality and human security, working towards a just and resilient world where those most affected by intersecting crises have the power to shape their futures.

The Finance Business Partner role is vital to supporting effective decision-making, strengthening the grant-giving process and enabling high-impact philanthropy at QCF. The successful candidate will work closely with programme teams to provide insight, challenge and strategic support, ensuring resources are deployed responsibly and for the greatest impact.

Reporting to the Finance Director, this London-based role offers hybrid working and the opportunity to contribute directly to global climate resilience efforts.

Duties Include:

• Acting as a trusted advisor to programme teams on financial planning and performance
• Providing modelling, scenario analysis and risk assessment to support strategic decisions
• Reviewing grant budgets, undertaking financial due diligence and supporting grants from day one of the cycle
• Maintaining oversight of payments budgets and contributing to donation cashflow forecasting
• Developing rolling forecasts and translating programme plans into updated financial projections
• Supporting organisation-wide learning and embedding a strong Value for Money culture

The Ideal Candidate Will:

• Be a qualified accountant (ACA, ACCA, CIMA or equivalent)
• Have senior-level experience in Finance Business Partnering with significant stakeholder engagement
• Be confident simplifying complex financial information for non-finance colleagues
• Have strong Excel and modelling skills (Power BI experience beneficial)
• Bring knowledge of grant finance and financial due diligence
• Have experience in an impact-focused or philanthropic environment (desirable, not essential)

QCF offers an excellent benefits package including 30 days annual leave, private medical insurance, gym membership and a 10% pension contribution.

Altum Consulting is managing the first stages of recruitment and will be meeting with suitable candidates ahead of presenting a shortlist to QCF. To register your interest, please apply today.

Prospectus is delighted to be working with our client, an innovative and entrepreneurial women’s health focussed foundation creating bold awareness campaigns, industry leading fundraising events, and shattering the silence surrounding gynaecological cancers. 

What began as a grant-awarding charity raising funds for critical research has evolved. While continuing to support vital research, the foundation is expanding its focus towards prevention, education and awareness, championing earlier diagnosis and influencing systemic change across the women’s health landscape.

As its ambition and activity continue to grow, the foundation is strengthening its internal finance capacity to support increasing operational complexity and ensure robust financial management underpins its impact.

The Head of Finance is responsible for all aspects of the charity’s financial operations, including daily accounting activities, management reporting, compliance, and governance. Supporting the organisation’s ambitious plans to create greater impact, the role will also work closely with the CEO and leadership team in building the organisations capacity, and firm charity governance to enable growth.

The successful candidate will be a fully qualified and experienced accountant as day-to-day financial management is a given. As a key player in the Foundation’s growth, you will also embody the values of the organisation, inspire others and actively build strong frameworks within finance, and also for other operational areas if required. This role would be ideal for someone who has been involved in the building and growth of a charity, bringing strong charity governance in equal measure with passion and innovation.

To discuss this role further, in the first instance, please apply with your CV and a covering letter to showcase your relevant experience. CV’s will be reviewed on a rolling basis, and as such, we would recommend that you apply early.

As a specialist Recruitment Practice Prospectus is committed to building inclusive and diverse organisations, and welcome applications from all sections of the community. Prospectus invests in your journey as a candidate and are committed to supporting you in your application.