At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead finance operations, ensuring strong controls and effective reporting for a charity supporting young people with cancer.
- Company: Join Young Lives vs Cancer, a leading charity making a real difference in children's lives.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, hybrid working, and the chance to shape finance operations.
- Other info: Opportunity to work closely with a new Finance Director and drive improvements in financial processes.
- Why this job: Be part of meaningful change and lead a team through exciting organisational transformation.
- Qualifications: Fully qualified accountant with experience in finance operations and team leadership.
The predicted salary is between 68000 - 70000 £ per year.
This Head of Finance Operations position is an exciting opportunity to join Young Lives vs Cancer, a leading national charity supporting children and young people with cancer and their families. Working closely with the incoming Finance Director, this role will play a key part in leading and developing the charity's finance operations, ensuring strong financial controls, effective financial reporting and the continued improvement of systems and processes.
The organisation is going through a period of change within its finance function, creating an opportunity for an experienced finance leader to help shape its future operating model, develop the team and drive greater efficiency across financial accounting, treasury, income and payments.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead and oversee the finance operations function, including financial accounting, income processing, payments, treasury and financial controls.
- Take a leading role in statutory accounting, external audit and financial compliance, working closely with the Finance Director and Audit and Risk Committee.
- Oversee cash flow, treasury management and banking arrangements, ensuring effective financial planning, controls and risk management.
- Lead and develop the finance operations team, providing guidance, support and leadership through a period of organisational change.
- Support the implementation of a new finance operating model, reviewing existing processes and structures to improve efficiency and effectiveness.
- Drive improvements to finance systems, particularly Microsoft Business Central, working closely with technology colleagues to improve automation, reporting and financial processes.
- Oversee financial governance, including VAT, tax compliance, procurement and the development of financial policies and procedures.
- Build strong relationships with senior stakeholders across the organisation, providing financial expertise and supporting effective decision-making.
Person Specification
- A fully qualified accountant (ACA, ACCA, CIMA or equivalent), with significant experience in financial accounting and finance operations.
- Strong technical accounting knowledge, including statutory accounts, audit, financial controls and compliance.
- Demonstrable experience leading and developing finance teams, with the ability to support colleagues and build a positive, collaborative working environment.
- Experience improving financial processes, implementing change and supporting the development of finance operating models.
- Strong understanding of treasury management, cash flow and financial risk.
- Excellent interpersonal and stakeholder management skills, with the ability to build relationships and influence senior colleagues across an organisation.
- Experience working with finance systems and driving improvements through technology. Previous experience of Microsoft Business Central would be highly advantageous.
- A thoughtful, proactive and adaptable leadership style, with the ability to navigate change, manage competing priorities and deliver sustainable improvements.
- Previous experience within the charity or not-for-profit sector would be beneficial but is not essential.
This is a fantastic opportunity to join Young Lives vs Cancer at an important stage in the development of its finance function. The successful candidate will have the opportunity to work closely with a new Finance Director, shape the future of finance operations and lead a team through meaningful organisational change. The role is based in Bristol with hybrid working arrangements, and candidates must be able to regularly attend the Bristol office. The organisation is looking for a confident and collaborative finance leader who can combine strong technical expertise with excellent people management skills.
Head of Financial Operations employer: Altum Consulting
Altum Consulting is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment within a high-profile heritage charity. With a strong focus on employee growth and development, you will have the opportunity to lead impactful financial projects while enjoying the benefits of hybrid working in the vibrant heart of Central London. Join us to make a meaningful difference while advancing your career in finance.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Financial Operations
✨Tip Number 1: Tap Into Professional Networks
The finance world loves a good connection, so jump into industry-specific groups on platforms like LinkedIn where you can find discussions on financial controlling. Engaging in these communities can expose you to hidden job leads that aren't openly advertised!
✨Tip Number 2: Attend Finance Events and Conferences
Make it a mission to attend finance-related events and conferences, even virtual ones! This is a golden opportunity to network face-to-face with people from companies like Altum Consulting. You never know who might be your next boss or a crucial contact!
✨Tip Number 3: Showcase Your Expertise
Consider writing articles or sharing insights related to financial controlling or industry trends. Publish these on platforms like LinkedIn to establish yourself as a knowledgeable player in the field. This not only increases your visibility but also catches the attention of recruiters from Altum Consulting.
✨Tip Number 4: Apply Directly on Company Websites
Since you're going for a full-time gig, don't forget to keep an eye on the careers page of companies you're interested in, like Altum Consulting. Many companies prefer candidates who apply through their website as it shows genuine interest and makes your application stand out!
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Financial Operations
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Numbers Game:In financial controlling, detail is everything! Make sure your CV showcases your proficiency with numbers—highlight any relevant experience in budgeting, forecasting, or working with financial software. Quantifying your past achievements will make you stand out, so don’t be shy about flaunting those impressive percentages or cost savings you've implemented.
Tailored Cover Letter is Key:Your cover letter is a chance to shine, especially for a full-time role. Use it to express your genuine interest in Altum Consulting and the specific impact you hope to make in financial controlling. Mention any relevant qualifications or experiences that align with the company’s goals, and don’t forget to show that you're ready for a long-term commitment!
Certifications Matter:List relevant certifications such as ACCA or CIMA on your CV. These qualifications not only showcase your dedication to the field but also your technical competence in financial principles. If you have any ongoing training or courses, make sure to mention those as well to demonstrate your commitment to continual learning in financial controlling.
Don’t Overlook Soft Skills:While numbers are crucial, so are those soft skills! Financial controllers need strong communication and analytical reasoning abilities. We recommend embedding examples of these skills in your CV and cover letter, like how you’ve successfully delivered financial reports to stakeholders or collaborated with teams to improve processes. Let’s show Altum Consulting how you can be a team player!
How to prepare for a job interview at Altum Consulting
✨Brush Up on Technical Skills
Make sure you're comfortable with key financial concepts, especially around forecasting, budgeting, and variance analysis. Sometimes, interviewers may throw in technical questions or case studies, so practicing these types of scenarios will help you shine!
✨Showcase Your Financial Acumen
If you've had experience with specific financial software like SAP or Oracle, make it known! Be ready to discuss how you used these tools to improve processes or reporting, as this hands-on knowledge can really set you apart in a full-time role with Altum Consulting.
✨Know Your Numbers
In full-time interviews, especially in financial controlling, be prepared for numerical reasoning tests or questions. Brush up on your mental maths and understand how to interpret and analyse financial statements on the spot, as this may come up during the assessment.
✨Connect with Company Goals
Familiarise yourself with Altum Consulting's financial objectives and any recent developments. During the interview, try to weave your understanding of their business model and challenges into your answers—this shows your genuine interest and alignment with their goals!
