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- Tasks: Lead financial strategy and oversee compliance for a global civil society network.
- Company: Join a mission-driven organisation impacting millions of girls worldwide.
- Benefits: Enjoy hybrid working, competitive salary, and the chance to make a real difference.
- Why this job: Be part of a values-led team driving social justice and global equity.
- Qualifications: Qualified accountant with strong knowledge of charity finance and excellent communication skills.
- Other info: Work closely with senior leadership and mentor a skilled finance team.
The predicted salary is between 48000 - 66000 £ per year.
Head of Finance
Salary: £56,000-£60,000
Permanent, Full-time
Hybrid working London-based
Location: Central London
A respected UK-based humanitarian organisation is seeking a Head of Finance to lead its finance function at a critical and high-impact time. This is a senior leadership role within a small but influential organisation that plays a central role in coordinating large-scale responses to international humanitarian emergencies.
This is an excellent opportunity for a qualified accountant to provide strategic financial leadership in a fast-paced, values-driven environment where financial stewardship directly supports life-saving work around the world.
About the Role
Reporting to the Director of Finance & Resources, the Head of Finance will be responsible for overseeing all financial processes, controls, analysis and reporting across the organisation. You will lead a small finance team and ensure the accuracy, integrity and transparency of financial information, while supporting senior leadership, trustees and external stakeholders.
The organisation experiences significant fluctuations in income during emergency appeals, and this role plays a key part in ensuring financial readiness, strong governance and effective allocation of funds. You will oversee budgeting for both core activities and large-scale appeals, manage audits and statutory reporting, and provide clear financial insight to inform strategic decision-making.
This role combines operational oversight with strategic influence and requires someone comfortable working in a dynamic environment with high levels of accountability and public scrutiny.
Key Priorities in Your First Six Months
- Oversee month-end, quarterly and year-end financial reporting and management accounts
- Lead budgeting and forecasting for core activities, appeals and longer-term strategic planning
- Ensure strong financial controls, compliance and audit readiness
- Manage appeal-related financial processes, including income tracking and allocations
- Prepare high-quality financial papers for committees, trustees and senior leadership
- Support donor, regulator and statutory reporting requirements
- Lead, motivate and develop the finance team, setting clear standards and priorities
- Deputise for the Director of Finance & Resources as required
About You
We are seeking an ACA, ACCA or CIMA qualified accountant.
You will bring:
- Strong experience in financial leadership, reporting and control in complex organisations
- Sound knowledge of charity accounting standards and regulatory compliance
- Experience managing audits, budgets and financial governance processes
- The ability to communicate complex financial information clearly to non-finance stakeholders
- A collaborative leadership style with experience managing and developing teams
- Resilience and adaptability in fast-moving, high-pressure environments
- A strong sense of integrity, accountability and commitment to mission-driven work
- You will be comfortable balancing operational detail with strategic thinking and motivated by contributing to work that supports communities affected by crisis.
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HEAD OF FINANCE employer: Allen Lane Interim & Permanent Recruitment
Contact Detail:
Allen Lane Interim & Permanent Recruitment Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land HEAD OF FINANCE
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the UK charity SORP and multi-currency budgeting. Understanding these frameworks will not only help you in interviews but also demonstrate your commitment to the role's requirements.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in the charity sector, especially those who have experience in finance roles. Engaging with them can provide insights into the organisation's culture and expectations, which can be invaluable during your discussions.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your hands-on experience with finance systems like QuickBooks or SAP Concur. Being able to share specific examples of how you've used these tools effectively will set you apart from other candidates.
✨Tip Number 4
Showcase your leadership skills by preparing examples of how you've successfully managed and mentored finance teams in the past. Highlighting your collaborative approach and commitment to social justice will resonate well with the organisation's values.
We think you need these skills to ace HEAD OF FINANCE
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Thoroughly read the job description for the Head of Finance position. Make sure you understand the key responsibilities and the skills required, such as knowledge of UK charity SORP and experience with financial systems.
Tailor Your CV: Customise your CV to highlight relevant experience and qualifications that align with the job requirements. Emphasise your background in financial strategy, compliance, and team leadership.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your passion for social justice and global equity. Explain how your values align with the organisation's mission and detail your strategic vision for the finance function.
Highlight Relevant Achievements: In both your CV and cover letter, include specific examples of past achievements in financial management, grant oversight, and team leadership. Use metrics where possible to demonstrate your impact.
How to prepare for a job interview at Allen Lane Interim & Permanent Recruitment
✨Understand the Organisation's Mission
Before your interview, take some time to research the organisation's mission and values. As a Head of Finance in a mission-driven organisation, demonstrating your alignment with their goals and commitment to social justice will be crucial.
✨Prepare for Financial Strategy Questions
Expect questions about long-term financial planning and risk management. Be ready to discuss your previous experiences in these areas and how you can apply them to support the organisation's growth and sustainability.
✨Showcase Your Communication Skills
As you'll need to present financial information to non-finance audiences, practice explaining complex financial concepts in simple terms. Highlight any past experiences where you've successfully communicated financial data to senior leadership or donors.
✨Demonstrate Team Leadership Experience
Be prepared to discuss your approach to managing and mentoring a finance team. Share examples of how you've built financial capability within an organisation and fostered a collaborative environment.
