At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead finance operations, manage budgets, and improve financial systems for community wellbeing.
- Company: Active Life, a charity focused on health and community connection.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, supportive environment, and the chance to make a real impact.
- Other info: Join a friendly team dedicated to continuous improvement and community support.
- Why this job: Shape a vital finance function while contributing to your local community's wellbeing.
- Qualifications: Fully qualified accountant with experience in finance operations, ideally in charity settings.
The predicted salary is between 45000 - 45000 £ per year.
Active Life is a registered charity dedicated to improving health, wellbeing, and community connection through inclusive and accessible programmes. Any surplus we generate is reinvested directly into enhancing and developing our services and facilities. We are governed by a committed Board of Trustees who volunteer their time, bring valuable business expertise, and share a genuine passion for our work. As a community focused charity, we work closely with local people and strive to ensure our activities remain open and accessible to all.
We are now seeking an experienced and proactive Finance Manager to lead our finance function and support the long term sustainability of the organisation. This is a key role for a fully qualified finance professional (CIMA, ACCA or equivalent) who is confident operating across the full financial cycle in a true 360 degree role. You will take ownership of all aspects of financial management, ensuring high quality financial information, strong internal controls, and the development of streamlined, fit for purpose processes. Working as part of a small and collaborative team, you will balance strategic oversight with hands on delivery, supporting colleagues while driving continuous improvement across the finance function. You will lead on bookkeeping oversight, payroll, bank and cash management, statutory reporting, VAT, budgeting, forecasting, and financial analysis. You will also play a central role in improving systems, removing operational blockers, and providing clear financial insight that supports effective planning and decision making.
What we’re looking for:
- Fully qualified accountant (CIMA, ACCA or equivalent).
- Significant experience managing end to end finance operations, ideally within a charity or not for profit setting.
- Strong technical accounting skills and experience producing management accounts, budgets, and forecasts.
- Proven ability to develop and improve financial systems, processes, and controls.
- Confident user of accounting software (Xero desirable) and Excel.
- Excellent organisational, analytical, and communication skills.
- A proactive, solutions focused approach and the ability to work effectively in a small team.
Why join Active Life:
- A friendly, supportive, and purpose driven working environment.
- The opportunity to shape and strengthen a vital finance function.
- A role with real impact, contributing directly to community wellbeing.
- Work in your own community.
Finance Manager employer: Active Life Ltd
Contact Detail:
Active Life Ltd Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Finance Manager
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the finance sector, especially those who have experience in charities or not-for-profits. A friendly chat can lead to insider info about job openings that might not even be advertised yet.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching Active Life and its mission. Show us how your skills align with our goals of improving community wellbeing. Tailor your responses to highlight your experience in managing finance operations within a charity setting.
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t underestimate the power of follow-ups! After an interview, drop us a quick thank-you email. It shows your enthusiasm for the role and keeps you fresh in our minds as we make decisions.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply directly through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows us you’re genuinely interested in being part of our community-focused team.
We think you need these skills to ace Finance Manager
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV reflects the skills and experience mentioned in the job description. Highlight your qualifications like CIMA or ACCA, and any relevant charity finance experience to show us you’re the right fit.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Use your cover letter to tell us why you’re passionate about working in the charity sector. Share specific examples of how you've improved financial systems or processes in previous roles to demonstrate your proactive approach.
Showcase Your Technical Skills: Don’t forget to mention your proficiency with accounting software, especially Xero, and your Excel skills. We want to see how you can bring your technical expertise to enhance our finance function.
Apply Through Our Website: For the best chance of success, make sure to apply directly through our website. This helps us keep track of applications and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity at Active Life!
How to prepare for a job interview at Active Life Ltd
✨Know Your Numbers
As a Finance Manager, you'll need to demonstrate your expertise in financial management. Brush up on key financial metrics and be ready to discuss how you've used them in past roles. This shows you’re not just familiar with numbers but can also interpret and leverage them for strategic decisions.
✨Showcase Your Systems Savvy
Since the role involves improving financial systems, be prepared to talk about your experience with accounting software, especially Xero if you have it. Share specific examples of how you've streamlined processes or improved controls in previous positions to highlight your proactive approach.
✨Communicate Clearly
Strong communication skills are essential for this role. Practice explaining complex financial concepts in simple terms, as you may need to present financial insights to non-financial colleagues. This will demonstrate your ability to collaborate effectively within a small team.
✨Align with Their Mission
Active Life is all about community wellbeing. Research their programmes and think about how your financial expertise can support their mission. During the interview, express your passion for contributing to community-focused initiatives, showing that you're not just looking for a job, but a purpose-driven role.