Senior financial controller jobs

You will hold an integral role at the DEC for accurately and efficiently managing DEC’s accounting function, ensuring compliance with charity and donor regulations. You will oversee budgeting, grant management, and donor reporting with transparency and accuracy. You will provide financial insights to support cross organisational projects and program delivery and hold a key role in developing and implementing financial strategies that align with our vision and strategic planning.

About You

You will be a confident communicator, who can engage with diverse internal & external stakeholders, including funders and partners, creating a collaborative approach to meet varying commitments. You must be ACA/ACCA/CIMA qualified (or equivalent) with senior finance leadership experience in the non-profit or NGO sector and demonstrate strong understanding of charity accounting standards and donor compliance requirements.

Key Responsibilities

Financial Processes

• Ensure accurate income/expenditure recording, bank reconciliations, and daily donation processing.
• Manage monthly accounting routines, prepare management accounts, and lead budget/forecast reviews.
• Coordinate annual and strategic budgeting, financial reporting, and analysis.
• Oversee income reconciliation across multiple streams and liaise with fundraising teams.
• Review and process drawdown payments to member agencies.
• Maintain and update accounting systems and support procurement processes.

Financial Controls

• Lead annual accounts preparation and audits; ensure regulatory compliance.
• Manage pension schedules and benefits compliance.
• Ensure tax compliance (VAT, Corporation Tax, Employment Taxes).
• Audit gift aid claims and maintain robust financial control environment.
• Update financial policies, procedures, and systems, support due diligence standards.

Financial Analysis & Reporting

• Oversee appeal finances, income tracking, and fund allocation.
• Coordinate governance processes (e.g., Indicator of Capacity) with member agencies.
• Monitor legacy income and liaise with fundraising/legal teams.
• Deliver annual report and accounts; produce reports for executive team and committees.

Leadership & Team Management

• Deputise for the Director of Finance and Resources.
• Prepare papers for finance committees and membership groups.
• Oversee finance team members and provide leadership support.

If you have used Sun Accounts (Infor SunSystems Cloud) or similar, have worked within a UK charity context and dealt with restricted funds, have prepared budgets, annual accounts and monitored cash flow and treasury management, then we would love to hear from you.

The DEC is an equal opportunities employer and provides opportunities to learn and grow in an inclusive, supportive, and productive environment. We encourage applications from anyone who can meet the criteria, regardless of gender, race, age, disability, sexuality, or religion.

How to apply

If you have the skills and passion for this role, please apply by 9am, Thursday 29th January 2026.

We are unable to support applications for our vacancies if you do not have the right to work in the UK.

The DEC is committed to the safeguarding and protection of children and vulnerable adults and participates in the Inter Agency Misconduct Disclosure Scheme. In line with this Scheme, we will request information from successful applicants’ previous employers about any findings of sexual exploitation, sexual abuse and/or sexual harassment during employment, or incidents under investigation when the applicant left employment. 

By applying, the job applicant confirms their understanding of, and consent, to these recruitment procedures.

About the DEC

The DEC is made up of 15 member charities who are experts in humanitarian aid and specialise in different areas of disaster response. They come together to speak in one voice and make fundraising more efficient when we launch an appeal. Our members fund our running costs, and we give them back the money we raise in our appeals to carry out their vital work.

Why Access Social Care Exists 

Every day millions of older and disabled people are denied the social care they need. Most local authorities can’t meet the growing demand for care, and none are confident they can meet their legal duties in the future. This affects all of us - we will all need care at some point in our lives. 

We all have a right to hold public bodies to account, but most of us cannot afford lawyers so rely on legal aid. The 92% drop in legal aid cases since 2010 means that we have nowhere to turn. Without access to justice, our rights do not exist.

What we do 

Access Social Care (‘ASC’) provides legal advice and information for people with social care needs, helping achieve a better quality of life. We work with communities to increase knowledge of the law and our rights. We highlight the gap left by cuts to Legal Aid and provide advice for those who can’t afford it. 

Our network of lawyers and caseworkers provide access to justice when things go wrong. We collaborate with social services whilst ensuring legal obligations are met. We are working towards a future where social care is adequately funded, and we all get the support we need. 

We provide rights awareness training to front line managers, and legal advice and casework support to families and individuals. As well as providing access to justice, our aim is to drive system level change through evidence-led influencing and strategic casework.

This is an exciting time to join ASC. We have a new strategy. We are dedicated to the people who need our help, and we care deeply about our team. We think that work should be an exciting and satisfying place to be.

About the role 

The Finance & IT Operations manager ensures effective financial management and control throughout ASC overseeing financial administration, reporting and compliance.

The role provides guidance and support on financial matters to the Chief Operating Officer (COO) in areas such as cash flow, audit and tax whilst ensuring that budget holders across ASC are well supported with tools and skills. The role also helps develop and implement the charity’s IT strategy, including managing the external IT provider and service level agreement.

Responsibilities

1. Financial Management and Reporting

• Provide the Chief Operating Officer (COO) with accurate, regular and comprehensive financial information reports to guide effective and sound financial decision making.
• Monitor financial activity against approved annual budget, reporting any anomalies or unusual activity to the COO.
• Develop, implement and operate monitoring systems for financial forecasting and re-forecasting to support sound decision making.
• Support the COO in the co-ordination of the annual budgeting and planning process ensuring that information is collected, compiled and reported in a consistent and robust manner.
• Co-ordinate and produce year end Charity SORP financial statements, including the Trustee Annual Report, providing external auditors with the necessary documentation and support to audit the financial statements.
• Ensure compliance with all financial regulations, liaising with the charity’s external auditors in preparing the SORP financial statements.
• Partner with budget holders, providing monthly expenditure against budget reports and supporting their understanding and decision making.
• Preparing financial statements for funder reporting and supporting the COO in designing budgets and financial models for new fundraising bids and other commercial offerings.
• Produce VAT and corporation tax returns and manage ASC’s relationship with HMRC.
• Oversee the payroll process, ensuring accuracy, compliance and timely submission to the outsourced provider.
• Oversee accounts payable and receivable.
• Establish a detailed cashflow planning process and manage the flow of capital between ASC’s and its chosen banks, recommending any changes as appropriate.
• Manage all banking relationships.

2. Policy and Procedures

• Collaborate with the COO to establish effective processes and controls to ensure efficient and effective financial management is delivered and maintained.
• Lead the development, implementation and monitoring of effective procurement policies, procedures and systems ensuring best value is achieved across all activities.

3. IT, Contracts & Data Protection

• Support the COO to review current accounting and finance systems recommending and implementing upgrades and improvements where agreed.
• Support the COO in drafting and implementing ASC’s IT strategy.
• Tender and manage SLA and relationship with external IT provider.
• Review outsourced arrangements and systems and work with the COO on tendering for fit for purpose systems to match organisational strategy and direction.
• Lead on the annual insurance renewal process, ensuring appropriate cover is in place and general administration of the charity’s insurance policies is enacted.
• Manage and review business interruption and disaster recovery plans, using regular simulation testing to ensure robustness.
• Keep existing portfolio of client and supplier template contracts under review, recommending risk-based strengthening.
• Oversee ASC’s data protection infrastructure, co-ordinating departmental Data Protection Champions to ensure that policy & practice is robust
• Work with COO in response to reactive data protection issues and incidents

4. People Management

• Provide line management to the Finance Assistant, using ASC’s management processes to ensure they are supported, motivated and able to work effectively.
• Plan and oversee the Finance Assistant’s workload, ensuring tasks are allocated appropriately and completed to required standards.
• Contribute to creating a collaborative team culture aligned with ASC’s values. 

5. Other Responsibilities

• Contribute to the design and implementation of team development work within the Finance & IT Operations Team in collaboration with the Chief Operating Officer and the Business Support Manager.

This list of tasks is not exhaustive and will be reviewed from time to time in discussion with the post holder.

Person Specification

All staff at ASC are expected to share and demonstrate our values:

Trustworthy

Recognised for excellence, we will be the best we can be in everything we do.  We will be truthful, independent and outcomes focussed.

Fair

We believe in treating people with kindness and compassion in a way that is right, reasonable and just.

Fearless

We will do what is right, not what is easy.  We will bravely challenge injustice.

Inclusive

Our beneficiaries’ voices will influence our thinking and decision making at all levels of our organisation. Collaborative in our thinking, we will work with others to achieve our goals.

Positive

We will be constructive and progressive in our challenge.  We will optimistically and dynamically drive for change.

In addition to our values, you will also need to be able to demonstrate or tell us about the following areas at your interview:

Personal attributes you will have

Essential:

• Purpose driven with a commitment to our mission and values
• Commitment to working within the principles of equity, diversity and inclusion
• Self-aware, solutions focused and able to generate goodwill with collaborators and colleagues.
• Demonstrates integrity and an ability to hold and respect confidential and sensitive information.
• Dependable, resilient with the ability to remain composed and effective under pressure.
• Self-motivated, resourceful, and proactive in taking initiative.

Experience you will have

Minimum

• Experience of preparing management accounts, monitoring budgets and producing financial reports for senior leaders.
• Experience of contract and SLA management, including reviewing and monitoring provider performance.

Essential

• Demonstrable experience of financial management within a multi-stakeholder environment, including familiarity with charity accounting and SORP principles.
• Line management experience supporting the performance and development of team members.
• Experience of overseeing IT services or outsourced IT support arrangements.

Desirable

• Experience of managing or coordinating insurance, risk, business continuity and/or disaster recovery processes.

Skills you will have

Essential

• Strong numerical and analytical skills to effectively analyse financial reports
• Strong relationship-building and stakeholder management skills, able to engage effectively with diverse groups and senior professionals.
• Able to manage multiple tasks, prioritise effectively and meet competing internal and external deadlines.
• Able to produce accurate and reliable work.
• Strong written and verbal communications skills, able to convey complex information clearly and accessibly to both financial and non-financial audiences.
• Strong IT skills including demonstrable proficiency in MS Office, Word, Excel, PowerPoint and Sage 50 Accounts.

Knowledge you will have gained

Minimum:

• Working towards qualification in ACA, ACCA, CIMA or experience to this level.

Essential:

• Practical knowledge and understanding of management accounting principles and techniques.
• In-depth knowledge of budgeting and financial forecasting and preparation of financial reports for senior management and compliance purposes. 

Desirable: 

• An understanding of Data Protection law and practice 

How to apply

We hope that having read this far, you will want to apply!

Please ensure that your CV and supporting statement do not include your name – use initials only. This will ensure that we avoid unconscious bias in our shortlisting process. To apply, please provide the following documents:

• An up-to-date CV
• A completed Equality and Diversity Recruitment Monitoring Form – Fill out form (A link to this form can be found in the job pack)
• A supporting statement of no more than two pages, addressing:
  • The essential requirements of the person specification

If you want support applying, contact us.

Please ensure you have the right to work in the UK before expressing your interest in this role. We are sorry that we cannot consider applications from candidates who do not have the right to work in the UK.

We only reach out to candidates who have been shortlisted. If you do not receive communication from us within two weeks following the application deadline, please consider that we will not be moving forward with your application. 

Timeline for recruitment process

If we receive a high number of applications for this role, we may close the role early. Therefore, we encourage you to apply as soon as you are able.

Closing date: 23:59 on Monday 9th February.

Interviews will take place on Monday 2nd March & Tuesday 3rd March.

Please ensure you keep these dates free.

At Access Social care, we aren’t interested in tokenism. We know that if we are to make the biggest difference for the people that need us the most, we need to get Equality, Diversity and Inclusion and anti-racism right. Part of this is recruiting greater diversity in all our teams. 

With this in mind, we particularly welcome applications from candidates with experience of the communities we serve, including people with direct experience of the social care system, and from marginalised groups, particularly Black, Asian and minority ethnic groups, older and disabled people, and trans and non-binary people.

Guaranteed Interview Scheme

For every role we advertise, we outline a set of minimum skills or experience that are key to doing the job well. If you have a disability (this includes long term health conditions or mental health conditions) and you meet these minimum criteria, you can request to be considered under our Guaranteed Interview Scheme.

If you would like to apply through this scheme, please clearly show in your supporting statement how you meet the minimum requirements for the role and indicate in your application email that you wish to be considered under the scheme. If you are applying via Charity Jobs, please ensure that you indicate at the beginning of your supporting statement that you wish to be considered under the scheme.

Being offered an interview through this route does not mean you are guaranteed the job. The selection decision will still be based on who performs best at interview.

If you are invited to interview, we will ask if you need any reasonable adjustments to support you during the process.

Please note: If we receive a high number of applications from candidates who meet the essential criteria and request to be considered under the scheme, we may need to prioritise those whose applications most closely match the role requirements.

Do you have what it takes to be part of the Walking With The Wounded team? We have a fantastic opportunity for a Financial Controller with experience of running the day-to-day financial operations of a dynamic charity. We are an ambitious charity with ambitious goals that needs a Financial Controller to support the charity in achieving these goals. If your attitude matches this, you will find a perfect home within our Finance team.

This is a broad role that will include a wide range of responsibilities. The Financial Controller is responsible for managing the daily and weekly tasks of the Finance team, as well as periodic tasks that are less frequent.  These tasks include (but are not restricted to) all aspects of bank and cash, raising of invoices, generating BACS payments, all Finance input into payroll, VAT returns, Gift Aid claims and response to ad hoc queries from our front-line staff.  The Financial Controller managers one Finance Assistant and reports into the Head of Finance. The Head of Finance leads on budget setting, forecasting and monthly / quarterly / annual reporting, and the Financial Controller will support where needed.  The Financial Controller will also be the lead contact with external auditors following year end.

 The tasks outlined here and in the job description will not remain static and can be tailored to the experience of the successful applicant, therefore this role is ideal for someone who is looking for a challenge and to develop their skills in a supportive and dynamic environment.

For an informal discussion please contact Marc Brady, Head of Finance.

Goodman Masson are delighted to be partnered with The Scouts to recruit for an Interim Financial Controller on a 12 month Fixed Term Contract (MAT cover). 

The Scouts actively engages and supports young people in their personal development, empowering them to make a positive contribution to society. 

As their Financial Controller, you will lead the Financial Accounting and Payroll team. This hands-on, strategic role requires a leader capable of driving operational efficiency in transactional accounting while managing the complexity of statutory reporting, audit, and internal control frameworks.

It is essential that you have a strong working knowledge of Charity SORP and have led financial control teams within a similar sized organisation. 

Key Responsibilities: 

• Oversee all day-to-day accounting operations (AP, AR, GL, Banking) and drive efficiency. Ensure the integrity, controls, and continuous improvement of all finance systems.

• Be the primary lead for the production of annual statutory accounts and the management of the year-end audit. Ensure full compliance with tax obligations (VAT, Corporation Tax) and external regulations.

• Design, implement, and maintain a robust and effective internal control framework, ensuring processes are documented and controls are strictly followed.

• Lead cash flow management, debt collection, liaise with investment managers, and report on compliance with the financial reserves policy.

• Manage and motivate the Financial Accounting Team and oversee the Payroll Operations Manager, ensuring an accurate, timely, and compliant payroll and pensions service.

• Act as a key advisor to employees and trustees, specifically managing the fixed asset register and partnering on capital expenditure budgets.

Essentials: 

• A recognised, full Professional Accounting Qualification (ACA, ACCA, CIMA).

• 5-10 years’ Post-Qualification Experience (PQE) in a senior financial accounting or audit position with a demonstrable track record of success in managing complex financial operations.

• Experience working within a charity environment and strong knowledge of charity SORP. 

• Proven experience in statutory accounts production, managing audits, implementing strong internal controls, and overseeing transactional teams.

• Strong change management skills and a passion for driving continuous process and system improvements.

Salary is up to £68,000 + Excellent Benefits. 

The Scouts are based in Gilwell Park, Chingford, London. Hybrid working with 2 days per week in the office. 

Nearest train station is Chingford Rail Station (25 minutes from Liverpool Street). A regular shuttle bus service operates from Chingford station to the Scouts Office (Gilwell Park). 5 minute journey time.

Ample on-site parking also available.

Applications will be reviewed as and when they are received with interviews set up on a rolling basis. Please apply ASAP to ensure you are considered. 

About Us

Freeways and Freeways Trust are linked local charities that supports adults with learning disabilities.

Freeways is a highly regarded provider offering a range of social care support services and Freeways Trust owns and manages a portfolio of properties which support the work of Freeways. Both charities are passionate about helping people to become as independent as possible by supporting them to make choices, learn new skills, and make links with their local community.

About the Role

The Finance Director will play a pivotal role in shaping the strategic direction of both Freeways and Freeways Trust and will be responsible for developing  and delivering financial strategies that align with the charities' objectives while maintaining financial sustainability. This position also involves overseeing financial management, ensuring compliance and leading the finance team to achieve operational excellence.

Key Responsibilities

• Strategic Leadership and Financial Planning: Collaborate with the Senior Leadership Team to set strategic direction and develop financial strategies and budgets.  Develop the financial strategy and five-year budget plan, including capital investment plans and cashflow forecasts that align with strategic priorities and operational plans.

• Financial Management and Control: Oversee finance operations, ensure timely reporting, and lead the annual audit process.  Maintain, review, and update internal financial controls across the finance function, identifying, assessing, and mitigating financial risks. Be responsible for the review and audit of financial processes across the organisation including for the people we support.

• Organisational Performance: Manage budget-setting and performance tracking, providing insightful analysis to stakeholders. 
• Governance: Act as Company Secretary, ensuring compliance with charity law and maintaining essential records with the Charity Commission and Companies House.
• Leadership, Management and Culture: Build strong relationships with key stakeholders and lead the finance team to achieve operational excellence and foster a positive organisational culture.

About You

You will be a qualified and experienced finance professional with strong leadership skills and a commitment to improving financial processes. Your strategic thinking and exceptional communication skills will allow you to explain complex financial information to various audiences and help them understand the impact on the wider charity and the potential future options. You will also possess a solid understanding of financial management, compliance, and governance, along with the ability to lead and develop a team.

Benefits

• 35 days (pro-rata) annual leave entitlement (including public holidays)
• Company sick pay
• Company pension scheme
• Life assurance cover of twice your annual salary (subject to rules of the scheme)
• Free parking on site
• Family-friendly/work-life balance policies
• Free DBS check every 3 years
• Occupational health provision
• Employee Assistance Programme – 24-hour access to a counselling and legal helpline

We are an equal opportunities employer and welcome applications from all backgrounds. This role is subject to an Enhanced DBS and Adult Barred List check.

Global Financial Controller | £80,000 - £100,000 + Benefits | London Hybrid | Permanent

For a large, global NGO, we are recruiting a Global Financial Controller. Reporting to the Global CFO, the Global FInancial Controller will join during a period of transformation to lead the development and delivery of financial systems, processes and controls supporting global operations, drive compliance, and enable informed decision-making. This is a key leadership role which will have strategic oversight of global transactions, and audits, procurement, finance systems and compliance. The Global Financial Controller will shape and implement the global financial framework, and will maintain first-class governance, transparency, and accountability.

Main Duties:

• Design and lead improvements for the generation of timely and accurate year-end statutory financial statements
• Influence and oversee implementation of external and internal audit processes, and lead the global responses to audit requests
• Support the Global CFO with preparation of Board and Trustee reports
• Design and manage financial systems for the management of global transactions, and timesheet management systems
• Design and manage accounting systems to consolidate accounts for the Charity Group
• Oversee and implement systems and processes to ensure compliance with UK VAT, PAYE and Gift Aid
• Oversee all Statutory Reporting and Compliance, including requirements of the UK Charities Commission, HMRC, and US IRS and Donors.
• Design and implement procurement policies, and vendor management solutions
• Review and update all policies and procedures relating to SORP guidelines, financial frameworks, processes and systems across financial strategy, internal resources and donor requirements
• Work with the Director of FP&A and Global Donor Reporting Manager on budgeting processes
• Design and oversee robust month-end and year-end closure procedures
• Design and oversee implementation of treasury and investment management systems, and risk-based forex management systems
• Review and sign-off monthly payroll transactions ensure compliance with HMRC.
• Lead, motivate and manage a team of highly performing staff, and champion change across the team and the adoption of new ways of working

Person Specification:

• Qualified Accountant, ideally with strong knowledge of UK Charities Commission, SORP, and other statutory requirements including Charities VAT
• Experience or change, transformation, and turnaround
• Ideally, strong experience of withing across the NGO and Charity sector, ideally with an international and global footprint
• Experience of working with global systems and processes including multicurrency
• Ideally, restricted and unrestricted funding experience
• Strong leadership skills - both with direct reports and wider indirect 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.

East End Homes is partnering exclusively with Robertson Bell in their search for a permanent Senior Finance Business Partner.

East End Homes is a leading housing provider dedicated to building sustainable communities through high-quality homes, exceptional services, and operational excellence. Every member of the team shares a common mission: to improve lives through quality housing and outstanding support. Their strategic vision focuses on developing sustainable communities, increasing operational efficiency, and fostering innovation and community engagement.

They are now seeking an experienced Senior Finance Business Partner to take full accountability for delivering strategic financial insights and support across the organisation. This pivotal leadership role will enable the Financial Controller to focus on broader strategic priorities, while ensuring robust financial management, insightful analysis, and effective governance throughout the organisation.

Key responsibilities include:

• Partnering with budget holders across the organisation to develop budgets, forecasts, and reports that inform strategic decision-making.
• Enhancing the quality, accuracy, and timeliness of financial data to create a more forward-looking, insight-driven finance function.
• Lead on the production of end-to-end management accounting.
• Leading ongoing improvements in financial systems, processes, and reporting to drive efficiencies and foster better collaboration.
• Providing financial leadership during key projects, including refining forecasting accuracy and streamlining year-end procedures.
• Acting as a trusted adviser to the senior leadership team, clearly communicating financial risks, opportunities, and insights.

The Ideal Candidate Will Demonstrate:

• Proven experience working directly with budget holders and engaging senior stakeholders.
• Strong expertise in budgeting, forecasting, and financial planning & analysis
• The ability to manage and develop a finance team, with a focus on process improvements.
• Experience in the social housing sector
• Fully qualified accountant (ACA, ACCA, CIMA, or equivalent).
• A collaborative, proactive approach with the resilience to work effectively under pressure.

The role offers a generous 33 days on annual leave, highly competitive pension and a flexible hybrid working model, requiring a minimum of three days per week at the head office located at 3 Resolution Plaza, London E1 6PS.

The closing date for applications is 7th December, but applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis - early submission is highly recommended.

Please submit your CV to Robertson Bell, East End Homes’ exclusive recruitment partner.

A large, well-established professional membership organisation is seeking a technically strong, detail-oriented Financial Accountant to play a key role in maintaining robust financial controls, statutory compliance, and high-quality financial reporting across a complex group structure.

The opportunity

This is a pivotal role within a respected, purpose-led organisation operating at scale. You will be responsible for the accurate recording of accounting entries, the production of subsidiary and group accounts, and the oversight of VAT, corporation tax, and statutory reporting.

Working closely with senior finance colleagues, you will provide technical accounting expertise, support audits and regulatory submissions, and contribute to the development and continuous improvement of financial systems, policies and processes. The role also includes line management responsibility and the opportunity to influence strong financial governance across the organisation.

The role

• Production of subsidiary statutory accounts and support for consolidated group accounts
• Ownership of VAT and corporation tax returns, liaising with external advisors
• Provision of technical accounting guidance on standards and best practice
• Oversight of balance sheet reconciliations, including intercompany balances, payroll, pensions and fixed assets
• Administration of investment portfolios, fund accounting and grant-related financial processes
• Maintenance and development of financial systems, controls, policies and documentation
• Support for audits, regulatory reporting and compliance activity
• Cashflow monitoring, reporting and financial control oversight
• Line management and development of a junior finance team member
• Deputising for senior finance leadership when required

About you

You will be a confident, proactive finance professional who combines strong technical capability with a collaborative, service-focused approach. You will bring:

• Experience in financial reporting and consolidation within a group environment
• A professional accounting qualification (ACA or ACCA)
• Strong understanding of VAT, statutory reporting and financial controls
• Experience supporting or managing staff in a hybrid or multi-site environment
• Excellent communication skills, with the ability to explain complex financial information clearly
• Strong Excel capability and confidence, supporting others to improve financial skills
• A problem-solving mindset, intellectual curiosity and commitment to continuous improvement
• A collaborative, inclusive working style aligned with values-driven organisations
• Experience of modern finance systems and familiarity with professional, membership or regulated environments would be advantageous.

Location: 2 days weekly in our London office
Salary: £87,632.09 (incl London Office Allowance) plus competitive pension
Please note that this role will be closing on Wednesday 4 February 2026 at 9am.

A little bit about the role

Frontline has achieved significant growth and impact in our first 11 years, and we are now recruiting a director to lead on ensuring our culture, operational and financial infrastructure enable us to continue to grow and drive change for children and families.

With a ~£25m budget and ~150 employees we rely on robust systems, a clear strategy and an enabling culture to support people to do great work to achieve our mission. Reporting to the CEO, the director of culture and operations (DCO) will develop our annual priorities and strategy. They will lead on strengthening and further embedding our culture of freedom and responsibility by providing excellent operational leadership across Frontline. To effectively operate a culture of freedom and responsibility we need robust financial controls, excellent governance and strong relationships at our foundation – as DCO you will ensure these foundations are in place – and build on them.

We are an ambitious organisation – we work hard to create an inclusive culture which supports our hard-working teams through data, feedback and technology. As DOC you will lead on galvanising our leadership group to ensure they have the necessary resources, collective focus and communication channels across teams nationally. Frontline is in a strong position. We have a clear strategy, stable finances and strong internal processes so we look forward to welcoming our new director of culture and operations to help build on this, so we can have even greater impact.

Some key responsibilities include:

• People – Lead the people team to identify new and creative ways to further strengthen our culture of freedom and responsibility
• Finance – Manage the head of finance and compliance, supporting them and the finance team to deliver sound financial controls/clear reporting and manage an annual budget of £25m – ensuring financial capability and clear cross-team communication
• Governance – Work with the chair of FARC (and other subcommittees as relevant) to ensure they are taking a strategic view on key issues, providing appropriate challenge and timely decisions (e.g. in budget process).
• Management of external contracts and relationships – Manage the contract governance manager with responsibility for DfE/university contracts and regulatory approval, ensuring effective governance and compliance

Full list of role responsibilities can be found in the job pack.

A little bit about you

You should have strong leadership experience, the ability to balance multiple priorities under pressure, and a track record of shaping organisational culture. Experience in financial management, HR strategy, and operational leadership is essential, while familiarity with charity governance and regulatory compliance would be beneficial.

We’re looking for someone with exceptional communication skills, a collaborative mindset, and a practical approach to problem-solving. If you’re a values-driven leader eager to shape culture, strengthen operations, and support our mission, you’d be a great fit.

We have a fast-moving culture within the team and organisation, so we’re looking for someone who is who is well organised, details-focused and can use their initiative to do what works. You will have excellent communication skills, be able to build relationships with people and be willing to learn. There are lots of opportunities for growth and development in this role – and for the right candidate to make the role their own.

If you feel you have the skills to make a real impact and contribute to creating lasting social change for children and families, we would love to hear from you.

If you’re interested in finding out more, please email Elise Cronin, Executive Assistant (contact details are in the job pack) to arrange an informal conversation with the CEO.

Important information

We have increased the diversity of Frontline’s workforce in the last 12 months, but we need to do more to have greater global majority representation in our senior roles. We know the value global majority voices bring and therefore, we are strongly encouraging applicants from these backgrounds to apply. We are also a disability confident employer and welcome applicants with disabilities.

With so many people now using AI to apply for jobs, it is common for applications to be repetitive and nearly identical. There are tell-tale signs when AI has been used, the writing has the same structure, the same tone and the same language. Using AI to clarify your thoughts and sharpen your answers is one thing, but we strongly discourage you from using a tool to generate the substance of your answers. We want your application to demonstrate your skills, as well as show us your thought process, how you respond to problems, what you have learned from different experiences and how you communicate in your own voice. Please be reassured – we are not expecting perfection.

We reserve the right to close this role ahead of the deadline once we reach a suitable number of applications, so please apply as soon as you can!

What if your ability to transform tax processes could unlock thousands of pounds in savings while building best-in-class compliance systems for one of the UK's biggest charities?

As a Financial Accountant within our Finance & Assurance directorate, you'll be part of a team that's transforming how we deliver financial partnership across the organisation. We're on an ambitious journey to become the Society's single point of financial truth. We aim to be trusted partners and credible experts who enable the organisation to make faster, better-informed decisions.

This is a highly technical, hands-on role where you'll own and improve our tax function. You'll be responsible for the essential technical delivery, preparing VAT returns, managing partial exemption calculations, overseeing Corporation Tax and Gift Aid. Ensuring we meet every regulatory requirement. But what sets this role apart is the opportunity to transform how we deliver this work. You'll drive continuous improvement across all tax processes, identifying inefficiencies, implementing automation, redesigning workflows, and developing robust controls that optimise our position while maintaining compliance. This is your opportunity to leave your mark on a critical area of the finance function.

Your process improvement mindset and ability to explain complex matters clearly, will help colleagues make tax-efficient decisions.

About you:

You're a qualified accountant with strong process improvement experience who thrives on identifying inefficiencies and implementing better ways of working. You're excited by the prospect of shaping an entire area within a finance function.

You're a problem-solver who constantly asks, "how can we do this better?" You have a genuine curiosity about how things work and a drive to continuously improve. Existing knowledge of VAT compliance, particularly partial exemption, would be beneficial, as would broader familiarity with Corporation Tax, Gift Aid, and other statutory obligations. However, what matters most is your appetite to learn and your determination to find better ways forward.

You'll have:

• Proven experience driving process improvements in a finance environment, demonstrating where you've identified inefficiencies, redesigned workflows, or delivered measurable improvements.
• A CCAB qualification achieved through education, or demonstrable equivalent knowledge and experience that evidences your understanding of the role's requirements.
• Some experience with VAT, Corporation Tax, Gift Aid, or other UK tax regulations. You don't need to be a tax specialist, but you should have exposure to tax compliance and a genuine interest in developing deep expertise in this area.
• The ability to quickly build technical knowledge and confidence in complex tax scenarios, with a problem-solving approach to navigating regulations.
• Experience working with HMRC or other regulatory bodies, demonstrating credibility and professionalism in external relationships.
• Demonstrated experience as a Financial Accountant in a large or complex organisation.
• The ability to work effectively across departments and at all levels, translating complex financial or technical matters into practical guidance.
• Experience with cloud-based ERP systems (we use Unit4) and a mindset of continuous improvement.

What you'll focus on:

• Driving continuous improvement across the tax function.
• Developing robust tax processes and controls that optimise our position while ensuring compliance.
• Overseeing VAT compliance – preparing and reviewing accurate VAT returns, managing partial exemption calculations, and optimising our VAT position.
• Overseeing Corporation Tax and Gift Aid compliance as well as other statutory tax obligations.
• Building and maintaining strong relationships with HMRC, managing enquiries or audits with professionalism.
• Providing clear tax guidance across the Society, empowering colleagues to make tax-efficient decisions.
• Working seamlessly with colleagues across the Finance team to provide integrated financial partnership, while role-modelling our values.

Can you see yourself as the person who transforms our tax function, not just maintains it? Are you ready to shape an entire area within our finance function and make your mark?

Rolling applications

We are accepting applications on a rolling basis for this role. There is no fixed deadline. We will continue to review applications until the role is filled. We encourage you to apply as soon as possible, as we may close the vacancy once we've made a successful appointment.

About Alzheimer's Society

Dementia is the UK’s biggest killer. One in three people born in the UK today will develop dementia in their lifetime.

At Alzheimer’s Society, we’re the UK’s leading dementia charity and the only one to tackle all aspects of dementia by giving help and hope to people living with dementia today and in the future. We give vital support to people facing the most frightening times of their lives, while also funding ground-breaking research and campaigning to make dementia the priority it should be.

Together with our supporters, we’re working towards a world where dementia no longer devastates lives.

Our values make sure that our focus is clear for the challenges and opportunities ahead and remind us of what we all stand for.

Our commitment to Equity, Diversity, Inclusion & Belonging

We need to ensure the voices around our table better reflect and understand the communities we exist to serve. We strongly encourage individuals to apply who have a disability, impairment or health condition or individuals who identify as Black, Asian or from another minority ethnic background, as these groups are currently under-represented at Alzheimer's Society.

We want everyone we work with, as a colleague, volunteer, supporter, or someone we support, to feel included and that they belong at Alzheimer's Society. 

Our Equity, Diversity and Inclusion Strategy here along with our internal employee forum and Employee Lived Experience network groups help us promote inclusion and belonging, becoming an engaged and inclusive organisation for all our people. 

Our hiring process

During your recruitment process we want to make sure that you bring your whole self and can be at your best. We are working hard to ensure our recruitment process is as inclusive as possible, so please do inform us of your experience and anything you think we could do better by completing our candidate survey when you apply.Please also contact Alzheimer’s Society Talent Acquisition Team for application support or any adjustments you might need.

To ensure fairness and consistency to select the best candidate for this role, all our applications are anonymised up until an interview has been confirmed. We recognise the benefits of AI, but if you're considering using it to submit your application, we encourage you to reflect on the value it truly adds. AI tools often lack the personal touch and authenticity that set candidates apart. We want to hear your unique perspective, experiences, and skills, so we encourage you to showcase them in your own voice.

We try to avoid closing roles early where possible, however if we receive a high volume of applications, we may close earlier than the advertised closing date. Should this occur, we will aim to provide you with at least 48 hours' notice.

We are committed to safer recruitment and ensuring the welfare of those we work with, due to the nature of some of our roles, we might need to carry out a DBS check at the relevant level.

Giving back to you

Our employees work hard every day to make a true difference in people's lives. We are proud to support them with a range of benefits, recognition and many options for working agilely, all contributing to a strong work life balance. We also have various learning programmes to support you in your development and help you grow to realise your potential and shape a career with Alzheimer's Society. 

You can also visit our Working for Us pages, which give you more information about what it’s like to be an employee at the Society.

Permanent, full-time (37.5 hours per week)

Remote working with some UK and international travel

We are looking for an ambitious, experienced and passionate Chief Financial & Operations Officer (CFOO) to join The Lifescape Project, leading the evolution, management and delivery of our financial and operational capacities as the organisation grows.

Our impact as a charity depends on excellent financial management and the efficient provision of supporting operational structures, policies and ways of working. As the organisation grows and diversifies, we need a dedicated Chief Financial and Operations Officer to lead the management and development of these critical functions in close liaison with the CEO. The CFOO will be second in command to the CEO and a key member of the Management Team.

About us and the role

We are a small and quickly growing UK-registered charity whose mission is to protect and restore wild, natural landscapes. We use the skills and expertise of our multi-disciplinary team (spanning science, law, economics, technology and culture) to develop projects that pursue this mission.

We use the approach of combining disciplines to design and deliver our work because the biodiversity crisis is driven and impacted by social, economic, legal and other complex factors. It is increasingly recognised that the urgent transformative change needed for a sustainable future on our planet is most effectively achieved through this approach. The Lifescape Project has a unique ability to apply these diverse areas of expertise to our mission whilst maintaining the agility of a smaller organisation in delivering our work.

Working in pursuit of our 2020-2026 strategy, the Lifescape Project has seen rapid growth in its impact, team and revenue since commencing work in 2020. Our annual revenue has increased from £265,000 in FY 2020/2021 to £1.2m in FY 2024/2025, with further growth expected in the current FY. Our team has grown from just one to a team which will number 20 at the time of the successful CFOO candidate joining. This growth to date and planned future growth requires constant evolution of our financial and operational infrastructure and an experienced hand to guide this process, which is the core purpose of the CFOO role we are seeking to appoint.

We are excited to be hiring for this role, which will be transformational for the organisation, allowing us to develop our approach to financial and operational matters and support the continued growth of our team and impact. The role will act as second in command and will deputise for the CEO when absent. We are therefore looking for a highly capable and experienced finance and operations leader with the vision to ensure that we continue to grow in a sustainable, effective and efficient way.

We currently have a full-time manager and officer in our Finance and Operations team (F&O Team), which the CFOO will be joining to oversee, develop and guide all relevant functions. With the small size of the team at this time, the CFOO will be expected to jump into the detail in some areas. In the short term this will include delivering some of the more complex areas of the F&O team’s work, such as the audit process, multi-year financial planning and legal compliance, with support from other team members and external advisers as appropriate. If we continue to succeed in delivering our growth strategy, the role will progress over the medium term with increasing team size/supervisory duties and reducing involvement in immediate implementation. Remuneration would also increase in line with growth and assuming strong performance in the role.

For further information, please download the job pack below. Candidates must review the entire job pack before applying.

To apply, please email a cover letter and CV (each a maximum of 2 pages).

Closing date: 9.00pm on 29th January 2026, however we will be reviewing applications as they come in and reserve our discretion to extend the deadline if necessary.

First interview: First round interviews are expected to take place virtually on Microsoft Teams between 3rd-6th February.

Second interview: Second round interviews are expected to take place between 23rd-27th February.

Assessed task: There will be an assessed task which candidates will be asked to complete, either before the first round or second round interview.

Start date: The role will commence as soon as possible from 1st April 2026, subject to the successful candidate’s availability.

Director of Finance and Operations

RESPONSIBLE FOR: Senior HR Executive (PT) and Database & Operations Officer (PT)

HOURS: Full-Time (9am-5pm, Monday-Friday)

JOB LOCATION: Hybrid - home and minimum 2 days in the office (Amersham, Buckinghamshire)

PENSION: 7% non-contributory

ANNUAL LEAVE: 28 days, plus bank holidays

OTHER BENEFITS: Employee Assistance Programme (EAP), Free Parking

Job Description

The Director of Finance and Operations (DFO) will play a crucial role in realising our ambitious plans as a charity. The postholder will be a member of our Senior Leadership Team (SLT), along with the CEO, Director of Development, Director of Programmes and Director of Fundraising and Communications. The DFO role is responsible for overseeing the financial health, operational effectiveness, and organisational infrastructure of the charity, ensures that the charity operates efficiently, ethically, and in compliance with all regulatory and fiduciary requirements. This role blends strategic financial leadership with hands-on operational management and is critical to enabling the charity to achieve its charitable programme as well as provide long-term sustainability.

Key Responsibilities

Financial Leadership & Management

• Provide strategic financial leadership, including long-range financial planning, budgeting, and forecasting.
• Develop and manage the organisation’s annual operating and capital budgets in collaboration with senior leadership.
• Manage the accounting functions, including payroll and pension, and month-end and year-end close.
• Prepare and present timely, accurate financial reports to the SLT, Finance and Investment Sub- Committee, and Board of Trustees.
• Monitor cash flow, reserves, and investments to ensure financial stability and liquidity.
• Ensure compliance with all financial regulations, funder requirements, and nonprofit accounting standards.
• Lead annual audits and coordinate with external auditors.
• Manage relationship with investment managers and their adherence to investment strategy.
• Support the Fundraising team in submitting income application, financial reporting, and compliance requirements.

Operations & Organisational Management

• Oversee day-to-day operations to ensure efficient systems, processes, and internal controls.
• Lead and continuously improve policies and procedures related to finance, operations, and administration.
• Manage organisational risk, insurance coverage, and compliance (e.g., legal, regulatory, and contractual obligations).
• Oversee facilities, technology, and vendor relationships, ensuring cost-effectiveness and reliability.
• Ensure strong data management, financial systems, and operational reporting tools are in place.

Human Resources & Administration

• Oversee HR operations, including payroll, benefits administration, employee policies, and compliance with employment laws.
• Partner with leadership on workforce planning, compensation strategy, and organisational design.
• Support performance management systems and contribute to a positive, inclusive organisational culture.
• Ensure onboarding, offboarding, and personnel record management processes are effective and compliant.

Leadership & Strategy

• As a key member of the senior leadership team, contributing to organisational strategy and decision-making.
• Advise the SLT and Board on financial and operational implications of strategic initiatives.
• Translate financial data into clear, actionable insights for non-financial stakeholders.
• Lead and mentor finance and operations staff, fostering professional development and accountability.

The Organisation

The Associated Board of the Royal Schools of Music (ABRSM) is a globally respected charity and the UK’s largest music education body, with a turnover of approximately £55 million—an increase of more than £10 million over the past decade. Around half of ABRSM’s exam income is generated internationally, underscoring the global scale of its operations and the need for strong financial governance across multiple jurisdictions. Supporting millions of learners and teachers in over 100 countries, ABRSM delivers world-renowned music exams, publications, and digital learning tools. As the organisation continues to grow internationally, it is strengthening its finance leadership team to ensure robust governance and enable its ambitious future plans.

The Job

ABRSM is seeking an experienced and proactive Head of Financial Accounting & Tax to lead statutory reporting, financial controls, and tax compliance. Reporting directly to the CFO, this pivotal role oversees one of three core finance functions, working alongside the Head of FP&A and the Head of Transactional Finance. You will manage a team of three directly and six in total.

You will be responsible for the monthly close, preparation of statutory accounts (including SORP‑compliant charity accounts), and management of external audit, while ensuring UK and international tax compliance in partnership with external advisors. In addition, you will strengthen financial controls, oversee treasury and cashflow, drive process improvements, and provide expert advice to senior leaders. As ABRSM expands internationally, this role is critical in safeguarding financial integrity and ensuring compliance across diverse jurisdictions, while upholding the charity’s high standards of governance.

The Person

We’re looking for a qualified finance professional (ACA, ACCA or equivalent) with a strong background in financial accounting and tax. The ideal candidate will bring:

• Proven leadership in financial accounting, statutory reporting, and audit management
• Strong technical knowledge of UK GAAP/IFRS
• Experience working within an international organisation, with exposure to cross‑border tax and reporting issues
• Strong track record of delivering continuous improvement and strengthening financial controls
• Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills, with the ability to advise senior leaders
• Strong leadership skills, with the ability to motivate and develop a high‑performing team

What’s in it for You?

• A high‑impact leadership role in a purpose‑driven organisation
• The opportunity to shape and strengthen financial governance during a period of transformation and growth
• A chance to contribute to a global mission in music education
• A competitive salary and benefits package including matched pension contribution plus 2% (employer contribution capped at 10%), 25 days annual leave plus Christmas closure days, flexible and hybrid working arrangements
• Opportunities for professional development and continuous learning
• A collaborative and supportive work environment

How to Apply

ABRSM are working in partnership with Hays Senior Finance to identify the right person for this role. Please contact Peter O’Sullivan at Hays if you have any queries, but the first step towards being considered is to make your application. If suitable, Peter will follow up with a call to discuss next steps.

You will provide day-to-day leadership of the finance function, bringing your accounting expertise to the team, and work collaboratively with me in my role as Director of Finance and Services, and from March with the incoming Chief Operating Officer, to ensure our strategy is translated into effective financial systems, budgeting, financial management and reporting.