Head of Financial Operations

Head of Financial Operations

We are delighted to be working with a prestigious and forward-thinking Charitable organisation seeking a dynamic and experienced Head of Financial Operations to lead a small but busy Finance team. Reporting to the Director of Finance & Operations, this is an exceptional opportunity to join a values-driven organisation, where you’ll lead a dedicated team to ensure robust financial control, strategic support, and efficient day-to-day financial operations.

Benefits

• Free parking and gym membership

• Generous career development and progression opportunities

• Excellent work-life balance with 25+ days holiday plus shutdown and bank holidays

• Free meals, health & wellbeing benefits, life insurance, and more

• A warm, inclusive team where everyone plays a part in success

Responsibilities :

• Lead, mentor, and develop a high-performing finance team, comprising a Payroll Manager, Financial Accountant, and Finance Assistants. Drive a culture of continuous improvement, performance excellence, and professional development

• Work alongside the senior leadership team to contribute to strategic planning, business forecasting, and financial modelling. Ensure alignment of financial operations with the wider objectives and global network

• Oversee all aspects of operational finance including budgeting, accounts payable/receivable, bank reconciliations, debt management, and financial controls. Ensure the accuracy and efficiency of financial transactions and reporting

• Supervise the payroll process and ensure compliance with statutory regulations and pension schemes. Provide oversight for benefits reporting and liaise with HR on employee compensation matters

• Coordinate year-end and interim audits, prepare supporting documentation, and ensure compliance with financial regulations and charity accounting standards. Act as a key point of contact for auditors and regulatory bodies such as HMRC

• Manage invoicing processes, ensuring timely and accurate correspondence with stakeholders. Collaborate with internal departments to collate billable activities

• Review and improve financial systems and procedures to enhance efficiency, accuracy, and user experience. Implement internal controls and recommend technological enhancements where appropriate

• Manage the preparation and submission of group VAT returns. Liaise with professional advisers and stay abreast of developments in tax regulations affecting the sector

• Lead the preparation of annual budgets, forecasts, and financial analysis. Provide financial insights to support operational and strategic decision-making

• Build strong working relationships across departments, providing financial guidance and training to non-finance staff, promoting a financially aware culture

• Manage property contracts and agent relationships for on-site accommodation. Monitor utilities expenditure for cost control

Requirements:

• Proven leadership of a reporting Finance department

• A relevant accountancy qualification (ACA/ACCA/CIMA/AAT)

• Strong all-round financial operations and control experience

• Excellent communication and a detail-oriented, proactive approach with commercial awareness

• Finance experience in non-profit or educational sectors could be advantageous

• Familiarity with audit and compliance processes in a charitable or regulated setting is ideal

If you think you’re suitable for this role, then please click 'APPLY’ now!

Recruitment Note

Due to the unprecedented volume of response we are currently receiving, regrettably we are no longer able to respond to every application individually. If you have not heard back from us within 5 days, please assume your application for this role has been unsuccessful. We do read each CV carefully and if the situation changes or another potentially suitable role becomes active, we will be back in contact.