Vat finance officer jobs
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.
To apply, please email a cover letter and CV (each a maximum of 2 pages). Candidates must review the entire job pack before applying.
About CoppaFeel!
CoppaFeel! are the UK’s only youth focused breast cancer awareness charity, and we’re on a mission to get every 18-24 year old checking their chest. We educate people on the signs of breast cancer and encourage them to check their chests monthly, so that if they notice something unusual they are empowered to contact their GP and advocate for themselves.
We do this because when diagnosed early, breast cancer treatments are more effective and survival rates are higher. Early detection can save lives.
Breast cancer does not need to be detected late, and as long as we are here and continue to be supported by people like you, we will do all we can to make sure this doesn’t continue to happen.
The Role
CoppaFeel! is looking for a Head of Finance and Contracts to as we continue to grow and develop the organisation’s internal operations. As Head of Finance and Contracts, you’ll oversee all aspects of financial management and contractual compliance across the charity.
This is a hands-on role where you’ll be responsible for managing and developing our small finance team, while also leading on budgeting, funder reporting and forecasting. Alongside this, you’ll oversee the organisation’s contracts ensuring we’re operating in line with best practice and regulatory requirements.
This is a hybrid role, with the expectation that you will attend the London office at least two days per week. Part time can be considered for this role.
The Head of Finance and Contracts will sit within the CoppaFeel! Finance Team, report to the Finance Director, and line manage the Finance Officer and Finance Assistant.
Duties & Responsibilities
Leadership & Team Management
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Line manage the Finance Officer and Finance Assistant, providing guidance, support, continuous improvement and performance oversight.
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Actively participate in Leadership Team meetings, contributing to the development and achievement of strategic objectives.
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Provide data-driven insights and strategic recommendations to inform long-term decision-making and business growth.
Financial Strategy & Reporting
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Lead the annual budgeting and reforecasting process, ensuring alignment with strategic priorities.
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Oversee monthly management accounts; meet regularly with Heads of Department (HoDs)to monitor spend and evaluate impact.
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Support with the preparation draft statutory accounts and coordinate audit queries.
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Conduct financial analysis, working with HoDs to assess ROI across key projects and income streams.
Operational Finance
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Ensure the effective day-to-day running of the finance function, including payroll, VAT, cashflow, and working capital management.
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Maintain robust financial controls, policies, and procedures, ensuring compliance with regulatory and best-practice requirements.
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Identify financial risks and implement proportionate mitigation strategies.
Contracts, Funding & Governance
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Provide financial oversight for grant and corporate funding applications, ensuring financial viability and compliance.
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Oversee contracts with suppliers, partners, and funders, working with legal advisers where required.
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Support the Finance Committee reporting and cover for the Finance Director if necessary.
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Monitor and respond to changes in financial, legal, and regulatory requirements affecting the organisation.
Skills, Experience and Qualifications
Essential
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Fully or part-qualified accountant (ACA, ACCA, CIMA or equivalent), or equivalent senior-level financial experience.
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Proven experience in charity finance, working knowledge of SORP, compliance, contracting and supporting audits.
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Demonstrated ability to lead and manage teams effectively.
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Senior-level finance leadership experience, including budgeting, forecasting, management accounts, and statutory reporting.
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Strong strategic and analytical skills, with the ability to provide clear financial insight to non-financial stakeholders.
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High level of integrity, accountability, and strong attention to detail.
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Strong technical proficiency in financial systems and data analysis tools (e.g., Excel, accounting software).
Desirable
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Understanding of impact and ROI evaluation in a charity context.
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Experience supporting funding applications, particularly for grants and corporate partnerships.
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Experience working in a small charity environment, and creating new systems or processes.
Application information
Applications will close at the 12pm 12th January 2026 with the aim to commence interviews from 19th January.
CoppaFeel! reserves the right to close the vacancy early in the event that we receive a high number of applications before the closing date.
Main benefits, Terms & Conditions
Annual leave entitlement: 22 days, plus office closure at Christmas, a day off for the founders Cancerversary and a day off for your birthday.
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Employee Assistance Programme
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Health Cash Plan
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Access to Self Space training and 1:1 therapy
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Core working hours of 10am to 4pm
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Flex Friday; every other Friday off, offering the time to recharge and ensuring work life balance, while remaining available in case of emergencies
All annual leave and benefits are pro-rata'd for part time employees.
Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion
At CoppaFeel! we support a diverse range of communities and we understand that diversity within our team is central and crucial to meeting the needs of the young people we exist to serve. We strongly encourage applications from Black, and people of colour, LGBTQIA+ candidates, candidates with disabilities, from men, and from those with a lived experience of cancer because we would like to increase the representation of these groups within the charity.
We promote equality, diversity and inclusion in our workplace and make recruitment decisions by matching the charity's needs with the skills and experience of candidates, irrespective of age, disability (including hidden disabilities), gender, gender identity or gender reassignment, marriage and civil partnership, pregnancy and maternity, race, religion or belief, or sexual orientation. We recognise the value in encouraging a diverse range of perspectives, skills, experience and knowledge at the charity.
While the successful candidate will be selected purely on merit, in the event of a tie between two candidates with equal suitability, we may select a candidate with lived experience of the issues we are seeking to address through our work.
We are a Disability Confident Employer and we commit to offering an interview for all applicants with disabilities who meet our required criteria for the role. If you have any accessibility requirements or need any adjustments for the interview process please get in touch.
Director of Finance and IT
London (Camden) | Hybrid working
Salary £90,000
Full time (37.5 hours) or 4 days per week considered
Thomson Foundation is an independent, globally respected organisation with over 60 years’ experience supporting free, ethical and trusted journalism around the world. At a time when reliable information has never mattered more, Thomson’s work is both impactful and deeply values-driven.
They are now seeking a Director of Finance and IT to join the senior leadership team at an exciting point in the organisation’s evolution.
This is a rare opportunity for a senior finance leader who enjoys combining strategic leadership while also being able to provide hands on support. You will work closely with the CEO, Board and senior colleagues to shape future strategy, while also getting into the detail to understand how things work today and where they can be improved tomorrow.
You will thrive in this role if you enjoy making your mark: strengthening systems, improving automation, streamlining processes and building robust, proportionate controls that suit a small, international organisation. This is not a role where you sit at arm’s length from the detail – you will be curious, practical and comfortable rolling up your sleeves, whether that’s reviewing processes, posting journals, improving reporting or driving smarter use of technology.
Alongside financial leadership, you will oversee IT, risk, compliance and governance across the Thomson Group, working with outsourced providers and internal colleagues to ensure systems are secure, efficient and fit for purpose. You will play a key role in delivering the Finance and Technology Transformation Plan, helping the organisation operate more effectively and sustainably as it continues to grow and adapt.
Thomson has a small, welcoming team and a collaborative, non-hierarchical culture. You will be joining an organisation where people are trusted, ideas are welcomed and impact really matters. The role is based in Camden, with hybrid working two days per week in the office.
This role will suit someone who is:
• equally comfortable thinking strategically and working hands on
• motivated by improving systems, automation and ways of working
• curious, detail-oriented and happy to implement change
• values-led and excited by working in a mission-driven, international charity
If you are looking for a senior leadership role where you can genuinely influence, improve and help shape the future of a highly respected organisation, this is an outstanding opportunity.
How to Apply
For more information, please contact Rosemary Pini at Allen Lane who is supporting on this role and happy to answer any questions.
Please apply by sending CV and supporting statement before 1st February
The Organisation
We're partnering with one of the UK's largest membership organisations, with income in the hundreds of millions. This is a high-profile, values-driven organisation that champions fairness and offers exceptional employee benefits.
The Job
As Tax Accountant, you'll take ownership of all taxation matters (VAT, Corporation Tax, employment taxes) and act as the organisation's key liaison with HMRC. You'll advise senior leadership on complex tax issues, shape taxation strategy, and ensure compliance across the group and its subsidiaries. Reporting to the Deputy Finance Director, this is a role where your expertise will influence decisions at the highest level.
The Person
We are looking for:
- Qualified accountant (ACA/FCA preferred; ACCA, CIMA, CIPFA considered)
- Significant UK tax experience across VAT, Corporation Tax, and employment taxes
- Skilled at advising senior stakeholders and managing HMRC relationships
- Strong analytical and influencing skills
Experience in a large, complex organisation is essential.
What's in it for you?
- Salary: £69,000 rising to £74,000 after one year
- Final salary pension scheme - one of the most attractive in the market
- 36 days annual leave plus Bank Holidays
- Wellbeing allowances, salary sacrifice schemes (bikes, childcare), season ticket loans, enhanced parental and family leave, and more
Ready to take the lead?
Apply now or contact us for a confidential discussion. Don't miss the chance to join an organisation where your expertise truly matters. Applications will be considered before the closing date, so please apply asap!
Hays Specialist Recruitment Limited acts as an employment agency for permanent recruitment and employment business for the supply of temporary workers. By applying for this job you accept the T&C's, Privacy Policy and Disclaimers which can be found at hays.co.uk
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
We are working in partnership with artsdepot, a leading multi form arts venue and cultural hub in North London to secure their new Head of Finance. The venue incorporates a 395-seat main theatre, 148 seat studio theatre, gallery, Creation Space, dance, drama and art studios, café and bar and other public spaces, and welcomes over 185,000 people to watch, learn or be inspired by a programme of shows and events.
The Head of Finance will report directly to the Chief Executive Officer/Creative Director and will be an active member the Senior Leadership Team, supporting artsdepot’s strategic objectives and decision-making. The postholder will provide strategic and operational leadership to a small and dedicated team and will be responsible for the financial management of artsdepot, in alignment with organisational strategic plans and budgets, and in compliance with Charity and Company accounting standards and practices.
The successful candidate must be able to demonstrate:
- Qualified accountant with post qualification experience.
- Leadership experience gained in either a cultural or charitable organisation, with a good technical understanding of business and charity taxation, and charity accounting and reporting standards (Charity SORP).
- Experience of analysing financial information for decision-making, scenario planning, forecasting and budgeting.
- Experience of critically appraising financial systems, processes, controls and making changes to increase resilience and efficiency.
- Experience of managing and processing VAT returns and payroll.
- Strong IT skills including Advanced Excel.
We are seeking a collaborative individual with the ability to work at both strategic and operational level, who can inspire, motivate, and empower others. A process and data driven approach, which is solution focused will be essential.
For more information, please see the candidate pack and contact Katherine Anderson-Scott, Executive Director, Charisma Charity Recruitment. Your application should be submitted through the Charisma website and include your CV and supporting statement.
We welcome and encourage applications from people of all backgrounds. We do not discriminate on the basis of disability, race, colour, ethnicity, gender, religion, sexual orientation, age, veteran status, or other category protected by law.
Location: Barnet, London / Hybrid (2 days in the office a week preferred)
Closing date: 8th February 2026
Charisma vetting interviews must be completed by the 16th February prior to submission to artsdepot on the 17th. Interviews with artsdepot will take place the last week of February / early March.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
ISEAL is looking for a Finance Manager to manage the day-to-day finance function in a sustainability focused international not-for-profit organisation.
The Finance Manager, Financial Accounting is a hands-on role, leading a mostly remote team of 3 part-time staff, who collectively process all ISEAL’s transactions. They report to and work closely with the Finance & Operations Director, playing an important role to ensure that ISEAL’s finance system operates effectively.
The successful candidate will bring the technical know-how of a qualified accountant, the ability to support colleagues, an eye for detail and be happy managing a varied workload, both for themselves and the team.
ISEAL has recently implemented Sage Intacct accounting software and an initial priority for the role will be to support the team to improve their facility with and exploitation of the new system as well as supporting the roll-out of new functionality across the organisation.
In return, ISEAL offers a involvement in all aspects of the financial management of an international NGO environment, an inspiring insight into the world of sustainability initiatives and a supportive, flexible organisational culture.
ISEAL is the global membership organisation for sustainability systems and includes many of the most respected sustainability schemes worldwide. ISEAL members cover social and environmental sustainability issues – from labour rights and sustainable livelihoods to biodiversity conservation – and are active across a diverse range of sectors. Find out more on our website.
Key responsibilities
Team management
- Oversee a team of 3 (2 direct reports) who process ISEAL’s day to day transactions, incl. purchase ledger, sales ledger and staff expenses /credit cards and payroll accounting
- Coordinate work planning, payment runs and monthly/quarterly accounting processes
- Work with the Finance Director to hold effective monthly Face to face team meetings.
- At times, provide back up and support to the different roles in the team
- Line manage, support and provide development and growth opportunities to direct reports
Financial accounting
- Responsible for and oversee the capture of all day-to-day transactions in ISEAL’s accounting records
- Reconcile balance sheet accounts on monthly/quarterly basis
- Oversee the payroll accounting, including 4 overseas payrolls
- Review VAT treatment of transactions and prepare VAT returns for review and submit it to HMRC
- Oversee timesheet processes and the calculation/allocation of staff costs into accounting system
- Consolidate ISEAL’s accounts and forecasts into management accounting-packs
- Support on preparation of the statutory accounts
Wider responsibilities
- Support the evolution of financial accounting procedures that are robust, effective and efficient, incl. acting as an administrator on Sage Intacct accounting software
- Engagement with the wider organisation on questions of accounting processes
- Experience, knowledge and attributes
- ACA, ACCA or CIMA qualification, or equivalent level experience
- Solid professional work experience in overseeing a finance function, ideally in an international setting using multiple currencies
- Competent in the use and exploitation of accounting systems
- Proficiency with Excel and ability to analyse, manipulate and present data to non-finance colleagues
- High level of accuracy in own work and ability to check work done by others
- Excellent organisational and time management skills, with ability to establish priorities for self and others
- Ability to respond flexibly to demands of the role and work collaboratively in a small finance team
- Well-honed interpersonal skills, displaying professionalism, tact and awareness of others, including sensitivity to cultural differences and perceptions
- Ability to build and maintain relationships with colleagues, including remotely, where most interaction will be virtual
- Excellent written and spoken English
- Ability to manage and motivate others
Additionally desirable
- Experience with grant/donor reporting and international-charity-VAT (Reverse charge/place of supply and business/non-business input tax recovery)
- Interest in and motivated by issues of sustainable consumption and/or environmental issues
ISEAL´s culture and how we will help you thrive
Our values are connection, empowerment, inspiration, wellbeing, effective working, and creativity.
These are traits we value in each other and in the organisation. We instil these values in all our processes and interactions.
We work on global issues and our team reflects this, with individuals from different backgrounds and nationalities. This diversity adds to the quality of work that we deliver and through our commitment to diversity and inclusion we strengthen our team.
Diversity for us includes race and gender identity, age, disability status, sexual orientation, religion and many other areas that form someone´s identity. We are proud to be an equal opportunities employer.
As an organisation, we also support our people in their personal and professional development, with the budget and processes in place for staff to take advantage of development opportunities.
We offer 25 days of annual leave, with an additional day a year added after two years (to a maximum of 30 days). In addition, we add an extra five days as a one off, once you have been with us for five years.
We have a hybrid-working model with a minimum of four days per month in the London office, as well as the opportunity to apply for flexible working arrangements to suit individual´s needs.
Other relevant information
Term: Permanent Position
Salary: £52 – 58k pro rata, depending on experience
Working hours: Part-time, 25 hours, pattern to be agreed (Full time equivalent 37.5 hours per week)
Location: Based in ISEAL’s London head office, with a hybrid approach to work. Office attendance requires 2 days minimum per month. Applicants will need to provide evidence that they are entitled to work in the UK
Annual leave: 25 days / year increasing to 30 days over time.
Ideal start date: From Jan 2025. Our priority is to get the right candidate.
How to apply
This is a readvertisement - previous applicants need not reply.
Specific enquiries about this role and the application process can be sent to the recruitment(at)sealalliance(.)org.
Deadline for applications is 20 January. Please note that we will only contact shortlisted applicants.
Please note that we would like to see candidates´ own writing in the cover letter and discourage the use of AI for this purpose.
Interview process
Please see below the planned interview process (please note that we will endeavor to keep to this schedule, but some dates may be subject to change)
First interviews (Teams): 9-20 January
Pre-interview timed exercises (between 60 – 90 minutes from home):
Panel interviews (in person): 28 January 2025
Decision: w/c 2 February January
Accessibility
If candidates require additional time or other considerations for the interview process, we are committed to accommodating any reasonable requests. Please note that ISEAL will cover travel expenses for in person interviews for candidates travelling from outside of Greater London. ISEAL also covers caring expenses for candidates who are carers and need to arrange of cover for the duration of the interview/exercises
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Join Quartet Community Foundation’s small, supportive finance team to provide additional capacity as our Head of Finance returns from absence. You’ll work closely with the Head of Finance and CEO to deliver accurate, timely financial reporting and help modernize our systems.
Key Responsibilities:
· Produce monthly management accounts and board reports.
· Ensure investment income is integrated into financial updates.
· Support improvements to financial systems and reporting for clarity.
· Collaborate on efficiencies and make data accessible to non-finance stakeholders.
About You:
· Qualified accountant with charity finance experience.
· Skilled in fund accounting, Excel, and financial systems.
· Able to present complex information clearly and meet deadlines.
Benefits:
Pension (6% employer), health benefits, EAP, Cycle to Work, 29 days holiday + public holidays, flexible working.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
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.
Walking With The Wounded deliver employment, mental health & care coordination programmes to veterans & their families in collaboration with the NHS.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Brilliant opportunity to join a young and growing charity at an exciting point in its evolution, and to help establish Crystal Palace Park as an exemplar in urban park management, community-led regeneration and cultural and heritage programming whilst restoring its position as one of the UK’s leading visitor attractions.
We are looking for someone with experience of working in a finance function and who has skills in office management and administration.
Reporting to the Director of Finance and Corporate Services, the role is responsible for bookkeeping, credit control, HR administration and ensuring the smooth running of the office (ranging from ensuring there is milk in the fridge to ordering stationery and managing IT requests). As a key point of contact for callers and visitors an awareness of excellent customer service will also be needed. The role is very varied and will
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
This is an exciting opportunity for someone looking for their next role in fundraising at an exceptional moment for the Young Vic under the new artistic direction of Nadia Fall OBE as she launches her second season in Spring 2026, alongside the launch of a new website and a refreshed fundraising strategy.
This role is pivotal in shaping the future of our supporter engagement and income growth. For the first time in a decade, you will lead the launch and delivery of a renewed membership scheme that ensures our membership offer is compelling, competitive, and aligned with our artistic vision. We are now looking for a proactive, proficient and dynamic fundraiser to drive membership growth. Increasing income will be central to your success, alongside providing the highest possible customer care, delivering exceptional stewardship and building meaningful relationships with our members and individual donors.
We actively encourage people from a variety of backgrounds with different experiences, skills and stories to join us and influence and develop our working practice. We are particularly keen to hear from Black and Global Majority people, and candidates who self-identify as disabled. All candidates who self-identify as disabled who demonstrate that they meet the essential criteria will be invited for interview. The Young Vic is committed to equality of opportunity for all staff and applications from individuals are encouraged regardless of age, caring responsibilities, disability, gender, gender identity, marriage and civil partnership, pregnancy and maternity, race, religion or belief and sexual orientation.
To Apply, please see more details via the Young Vic Jobs Page on our website.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Job Advert
JOB TITLE: Head of Operations
SALARY: £56,000 (pro rata)
LOCATION: LSE Students’ Union, Central London Office
WORKING HOURS: 22.2 hours per week (0.6 FTE)
CONTRACT TYPE: Permanent
The LSE Students’ Union is seeking an experienced and strategic leader to join our Senior Leadership Team as Head of Operations. This is a newly created position, offering an exciting opportunity to take senior oversight of our central teams and ensure the effective delivery of our operational functions.
Reporting directly to the Chief Executive Officer, you will provide leadership and direction across finance, HR, governance, compliance, and risk management. Your work will underpin the Union’s ability to deliver its strategic objectives and maintain high standards of accountability, transparency, and operational excellence.
As Head of Operations, you will lead our finance and HR team, ensuring robust financial management, effective people practices, and strong governance frameworks. You will oversee budgeting, audits, and financial reporting, while promoting a positive and inclusive workplace culture. Acting as a key adviser to the Board of Trustees and relevant committees, you will also manage risk and data protection across the organisation.
Who are we?
LSESU is a vibrant, student-led organisation committed to helping LSE students make the most of the life-changing experiences open to them during their time at university. As part of our Senior Leadership Team, you will play a critical role in shaping our future and helping us to create a student experience which is enjoyable and empowering.
Founded in 1897, LSE Students' Union is one of the oldest Students' Unions in the UK. We provide support, representation, and opportunities to help students thrive during their time at university. Everything we do is shaped by our members and guided by our values to be bold and inclusive, working collaboratively to create a welcoming community built on integrity and respect.
Who are we looking for?
We are looking for a candidate who combines strategic vision with operational expertise. You will bring a recognised accounting qualification and strong financial acumen, alongside experience in managing both finance and HR functions. Your knowledge of governance, compliance, and risk management frameworks will be essential, as will your ability to provide clear leadership and build effective relationships at all levels.
You’ll need excellent organisation and planning skills, with a keen eye for detail and the ability to manage multiple priorities effectively. A commitment to equality, diversity, and inclusion is fundamental, together with an interest in working within a democratic, student-led environment.
Why apply?
As Head of Operations, you will play a pivotal role in shaping the future of the Union and supporting thousands of students at one of the world’s leading universities. We offer:
- 25 days of holiday per year (pro rata)
- Additional closure periods at Christmas and Easter
- Free LSE Students’ Union gym membership
- Opportunities for professional development and growth.
- Access to TOTUM (NUS) card, which provides a wide range of discounts
- Flexibility for work-life balance
How to apply
We want to ensure that all systems, policies and processes are free from bias or discrimination and are fair and accessible. Therefore, we ask that all candidates complete our application process by uploading the following three documents:
Part 1: CV – Outlining your skills and experience to date.
Part 2: Supporting Statement – A one-page statement explaining your suitability for the role. This will be used to determine if you are shortlisted for an interview. Please do not include any personal information (e.g., name or date of birth). Use the attached job description and person specification to help with this.
Part 3: Equal Opportunities Monitoring and Contact Form – This includes personal information so we can contact you if you are shortlisted for an interview. It also allows us to gather and analyse demographic information about our applicants. This form will only be seen by HR and will not impact shortlisting.
Want to apply?
To apply for this role, please complete an online application.
Job Application Timeline
Closing date: Thursday 29th January 2026 at 10am
Intended interview dates: 12th / 13th February 2026
Compulsory Requirement - The UK Government sets the legal regulations that we are required to follow. As an employer we must ensure that everyone is eligible to work in the UK and this is done by us checking and making a copy of the correct original identification/documentation before your first day of work. Currently we require you to have the right to work in the UK, as we are not a Home Office approved sponsor.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Financial Controller
Location: Central London (West End)
Contract Type: Permanent
Salary: £50,000 -£55,000 per annum
· Play a key role in the finance function for a global membership organisation with 160+ years of industry expertise
· Hybrid working with 27 days holiday and 7% employer pension contribution
· Hands-on role managing month-end close, management accounts, supporting year-end, accounts payable/receivable and credit control
· Opportunity to develop junior finance staff and shape financial processes in an evolving organisation
· Work within a collaborative environment that values flexibility and proactive problem-solving
Our client is a well-established global membership body serving the maritime industry, seeking an experienced Financial Controller to lead their finance function. If you're a qualified accountant with strong hands-on experience in transactional accounting, month-end close, management accounts and team management, this permanent role offers the chance to take ownership of the finance operation within a dynamic, forward-thinking organisation based in central London.
Company Overview
Our client is a professional membership organisation founded over 160 years ago, bringing together naval architects, maritime engineers and associated professionals across 140 countries. The organisation drives innovation in the maritime sector through technical excellence, publications, events and learning programmes. With a mission to advance the art and science of their industry, they foster interdisciplinary conversation around emerging topics including artificial intelligence, decarbonisation and autonomous systems. The organisation operates in an evolving environment that values collaboration, flexibility and proactive approaches to change.
Position Overview
As Financial Controller, you will report to the Director of Finance & Resources and will lead the day-to-day finance operation, taking ownership of transactional accounting and the month-end close process. You'll maintain the general ledger, ensure data integrity across systems, and manage accounts payable, accounts receivable and credit control functions. The role involves coordinating payroll, preparing management accounts and VAT returns, supporting budget preparation and assisting with year-end accounts and audits. You'll also supervise junior finance staff and contribute to office management and health and safety responsibilities, playing a key part in the organisation's financial stability and operational success. Ambition to take on more responsibility and transition into a Finance Director role in the future is also a possibility in this role.
Responsibilities
· Lead and oversee the month-end close process, ensuring accuracy and timeliness of financial reporting
· Manage accounts payable and accounts receivable functions, including credit control activities (with support from Finance Assistants)
· Maintain the general ledger and ensure data integrity between accounting systems
· Coordinate payroll administration and liaise with external payroll providers
· Prepare management accounts and financial reports for internal stakeholders
· Prepare and submit VAT returns in line with regulatory requirements
· Support budget preparation and variance analysis throughout the financial year
· Assist with external audit processes and year-end financial statement preparation
· Supervise and develop junior finance team members, providing guidance and support
· Contribute to office management and health and safety responsibilities
· Identify opportunities to improve financial processes and systems efficiency
Requirements
· Fully qualified accountant (ACA, ACCA, CIMA or equivalent professional qualification)
· Minimum 5 years' experience in a hands-on finance role with transactional accounting responsibilities
· Proven experience managing month-end close and preparing management accounts
· High-level Excel proficiency and ability to work with financial data confidently
· Experience with accounting software (Sage experience is advantageous)
· Proactive self-starter with strong attention to detail and accuracy
· Right to work in the United Kingdom
· Experience in the not-for-profit or membership sector is advantageous
· Familiarity with CRM systems is advantageous
Benefits
· Salary: £50-55k
· 27 days annual holiday plus long service leave
· 7% employer pension contribution
· Hybrid working arrangement (office and home-based)
· Standard working hours: 9.00am to 5.00pm
· Opportunity to develop and mentor junior finance staff
· Exposure to a global membership organisation operating across multiple countries
Alongside this competitive benefits package, you'll join a collaborative organisation that values flexibility, proactive problem-solving and cross-functional teamwork. Our client operates in an exciting strategic phase, welcoming individuals who thrive in evolving environments and enjoy variety in their work.
How to Apply
If you're a qualified accountant with strong hands-on finance experience and the skills to succeed in this role, we'd like to hear from you.
Please send your CV by the closing date of Wednesday 21st January at 12 noon.
Interviews will be held in late January and early February.