At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead financial operations, manage reporting, and support our mission to improve lives affected by ataxia.
- Company: Ataxia UK, a charity dedicated to funding research for neurological conditions.
- Benefits: 25 days annual leave, flexible working, health plan, and training opportunities.
- Other info: Join a passionate team committed to equality and ethical medical research.
- Why this job: Make a meaningful impact while using your finance skills for a great cause.
- Qualifications: Qualified accountant with 5+ years in senior finance roles and charity finance experience.
About Ataxia UK
Ataxia is an umbrella term for a group of progressive, neurological conditions which involve problems with co-ordination, balance and speech caused by disruption of the messages sent from our brains to our muscles. Ataxia UK funds research into cures and treatments for ataxia, including stem cell and gene therapy. By collaborating with ataxia researchers across the globe, and pharmaceutical and research organisations, we’re confident that cures can one day be found. Until then, we work towards getting better treatments for people with ataxia and providing information and support to everyone affected, improving their quality of life and helping to slow the progression of the disease.
About the Role
As our Financial Controller, you'll lead the day-to-day financial operations of the charity, ensuring robust financial controls, accurate reporting and efficient processes that support our mission. You'll oversee month-end reporting, budgeting, forecasting and financial analysis, providing clear insights to inform decision-making across the organisation. Working closely with colleagues throughout the charity, you'll manage grant and restricted fund reporting, support annual planning, drive continuous improvement in financial systems and processes, and lead a small finance team. You'll also play a key role in ensuring compliance with charity accounting standards, governance requirements and best practice.
About you
We're looking for a qualified accountant (ACA, ACCA, CIMA, CIPFA or similar) with at least five years' post-qualification experience and a proven track record in senior finance or audit roles. You'll be confident leading finance operations, managing staff, and turning complex financial information into clear, actionable insights. You'll bring experience of charity finance, including grant management, restricted and unrestricted funds, and Charity SORP, alongside strong skills in Xero and Excel. Experience with Fathom and Raiser's Edge (or similar CRM/database systems) would be an advantage. Just as importantly, you'll be passionate about making a difference for people affected by ataxia. You'll understand the barriers faced by disabled people, approach our members with empathy and respect, and share our commitment to equality, inclusion and ethical medical research. This is an opportunity for a skilled finance professional to use their expertise to help drive our mission and make a meaningful impact.
Benefits of working for us:
- 25 days annual leave pro rata (rising to 30 with a length of service)
- Extra holiday day for your birthday
- Access to a free Health Plan, Employee Assistance Programme & Employee Hotline
- Flexible hybrid working
- Pension scheme
- Enhanced maternity and co-parental leave
- Cycle to work scheme
- Training and development opportunities
- Accredited Living Wage Employer
Please see full Job Description for further details including Person Specifications. Your covering letter will be used to assess you against the person specification for this role.
First round interviews will take place online. Second round interviews will take place in person at our office in Highgate.
Financial Controller employer: Ataxia UK
Ataxia UK is an exceptional employer dedicated to making a meaningful impact in the lives of those affected by ataxia. With a strong commitment to employee well-being, we offer generous benefits such as flexible hybrid working, extensive training and development opportunities, and a supportive work culture that values empathy and inclusion. Join us in our mission to improve quality of life for individuals with neurological conditions while advancing your career in a fulfilling and purpose-driven environment.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Financial Controller
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the finance sector, especially those who have experience in charities. A friendly chat can lead to valuable insights and even job leads.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching Ataxia UK and understanding their mission. Show us how your financial expertise can directly support their goals. Tailor your responses to highlight your passion for making a difference.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your financial storytelling! Be ready to explain complex financial concepts in simple terms. This will help you connect with non-financial colleagues and demonstrate your leadership skills.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows us you’re genuinely interested in being part of our mission at Ataxia UK.
We think you need these skills to ace Financial Controller
Some tips for your application 🫡
Read the Job Description Thoroughly:Before you dive into your application, take a good look at the job description. It’s packed with info about what we’re looking for in a Financial Controller, so make sure you understand the role and how your experience fits.
Tailor Your Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Make it personal and relevant by highlighting your experience in charity finance and how it aligns with our mission. Show us why you’re passionate about making a difference for people affected by ataxia.
Showcase Your Skills:We want to see your financial expertise! Be sure to mention your qualifications and experience with tools like Xero and Excel. If you’ve got experience with grant management or charity accounting standards, don’t hold back – let us know!
Apply Through Our Website:When you’re ready to submit your application, make sure to do it through our website. It’s the best way for us to keep track of your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. We can’t wait to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at Ataxia UK
✨Know Your Numbers
As a Financial Controller, you'll need to demonstrate your financial acumen. Brush up on key financial metrics and be ready to discuss how you've used them in past roles. This shows you can turn complex data into actionable insights, which is crucial for the role.
✨Understand Charity Finance
Familiarise yourself with charity finance principles, especially around grant management and the Charity SORP. Be prepared to discuss your experience in these areas and how it aligns with Ataxia UK's mission. This will show your commitment to their cause and your understanding of the unique challenges in charity finance.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
You'll be leading a small finance team, so highlight your leadership experience. Think of examples where you've successfully managed staff or improved processes. This will help convey your ability to drive continuous improvement and support your colleagues effectively.
✨Align with Their Mission
Ataxia UK is all about making a difference for those affected by ataxia. Be ready to express your passion for this cause and how your values align with theirs. Sharing personal stories or experiences related to disability or healthcare can make a strong impact during your interview.
