At a Glance
- Tasks: Manage financial operations and ensure compliance for two charities.
- Company: Wates Family Charities supports social impact through strategic grant-making.
- Benefits: Flexible working hours with a mix of home and office work.
- Why this job: Join a close-knit team making a real difference in the community.
- Qualifications: Part-qualified ACA/ACCA or fully qualified AAT with strong accounting skills.
- Other info: Part-time role requiring presence in Leatherhead and flexibility around audits.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 Β£ per year.
We are seeking an experienced and proactive Finance Manager to oversee the financial operations and compliance for both charities. As the sole finance professional within a close-knit team of seven, this role is crucial in maintaining the financial integrity and regulatory compliance of the organisation.
Application Deadline: 7/17/2025
Job Details:
- Hours: 2 days a week (15 hours)
- Location: Flexible – one day a week in our Leatherhead office, with a mix of home and office working
- Type: Permanent
About Us:
Wates Family Charities comprises two independent, grant-making charities: Wates Family Enterprise Trust and The Wates Foundation. We are dedicated to supporting positive social impact through strategic grant-making and community investment. Our combined annual spend exceeds Β£2.5 million, supporting various vital initiatives.
Key Responsibilities:
- Oversee and manage the preparation of statutory accounts and financial information for the annual audit
- Maintain accurate financial records, including bank reconciliations, journals, and trial balances
- Prepare quarterly management accounts, cash flow reports, and forecasts
- Authorize and process payments, including grants and internal recharges
- Manage external audit processes, liaising with auditors and internal teams
- Ensure compliance with Companies House, Charity Commission, and other regulatory bodies
- Draft and submit annual reports and accounts, with support from the Director
- Develop and implement policies (e.g., safeguarding, GDPR, whistleblowing)
- Provide financial data for trustee meetings and assist in drafting decision papers
- Maintain accurate records of training and hospitality for trustees and staff
- Support grant assessments and related administrative processes as required
What Weβre Looking For:
Essential:
- Part-qualified ACA/ACCA or fully qualified AAT
- Solid technical knowledge of financial accounting and bookkeeping
- Strong skills in preparing management accounts and managing cash flow
- Experience of working independently in a finance function
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to explain financial matters to non-specialists
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office and accounting software (SAGE)
Desirable:
- Experience of charity accounting and knowledge of SORP
- Familiarity with regulatory requirements for UK charities
- Understanding of deposit management and placing funds with platforms such as Flagstone
Working Pattern:
This is a part-time role (15 hours per week) with hybrid working. A fortnightly presence in Leatherhead is required, ideally on Wednesdays. Flexibility will be necessary around the annual external audit and Board meetings, approximately two per quarter, held between central London and Leatherhead.
Location: Leatherhead & London
Working From: Office
Remuneration: (Details not specified)
How to Apply:
Please submit your application via our online portal – link below. Thank you.
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Finance Manager employer: ACF
Contact Detail:
ACF Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice π€«
We think this is how you could land Finance Manager
β¨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the specific financial regulations and compliance requirements for charities in the UK. This knowledge will not only help you stand out during interviews but also demonstrate your commitment to the role.
β¨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in the charity sector, especially those who have experience in finance roles. Attend relevant events or join online forums to gain insights and potentially get referrals that could lead to an interview.
β¨Tip Number 3
Brush up on your skills with accounting software like SAGE, as proficiency in this area is essential for the role. Consider taking a short course or tutorial to enhance your expertise and make you a more attractive candidate.
β¨Tip Number 4
Prepare to discuss your experience with managing cash flow and preparing management accounts in detail. Be ready to provide examples of how you've successfully navigated financial challenges in previous roles.
We think you need these skills to ace Finance Manager
Some tips for your application π«‘
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience in finance management, particularly in charity accounting if applicable. Emphasise your qualifications, such as ACA/ACCA or AAT, and any specific skills that align with the job description.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your passion for the role and the mission of Wates Family Charities. Discuss your experience in overseeing financial operations and compliance, and how you can contribute to their goals.
Highlight Relevant Skills: In your application, specifically mention your technical knowledge of financial accounting, bookkeeping, and your proficiency with accounting software like SAGE. Provide examples of how you've successfully managed cash flow and prepared management accounts.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting, carefully proofread your application for any spelling or grammatical errors. Ensure that your communication is clear and professional, as excellent written skills are essential for this role.
How to prepare for a job interview at ACF
β¨Showcase Your Financial Expertise
Make sure to highlight your technical knowledge of financial accounting and bookkeeping during the interview. Be prepared to discuss your experience with preparing management accounts and managing cash flow, as these are crucial for the role.
β¨Demonstrate Communication Skills
Since you'll need to explain financial matters to non-specialists, practice articulating complex financial concepts in simple terms. This will show that you can effectively communicate with various stakeholders, including trustees and team members.
β¨Familiarise Yourself with Charity Regulations
Brush up on the regulatory requirements for UK charities and the SORP guidelines. Being knowledgeable about these regulations will demonstrate your commitment to compliance and your understanding of the charity sector.
β¨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect questions that assess how you would handle specific financial situations or challenges. Think of examples from your past experience where you successfully managed audits, compliance issues, or financial reporting, and be ready to share those stories.