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 and supporting those with ataxia.
- Benefits: Generous annual leave, flexible working, health plan, and professional development opportunities.
- Other info: Join a passionate team committed to equality and ethical medical research.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in the lives of people affected by neurological conditions.
- Qualifications: Qualified accountant with 5+ years' experience in finance or audit roles.
The predicted salary is between 50000 - 60000 £ per year.
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 in London 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 25 days of annual leave, flexible hybrid working, and access to a free Health Plan, all within a supportive and inclusive work culture that fosters professional growth and development. Join us in our mission to improve quality of life for individuals with neurological conditions while advancing your career in a fulfilling environment located in Highgate.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Financial Controller in London
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the finance sector, especially those who have experience in charity finance. 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 answers to reflect 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 in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Make sure to highlight your relevant experience and how it aligns with our mission at Ataxia UK. Show us your passion for making a difference and how your skills can contribute to our goals.
Tailor Your CV:Don’t just send the same CV everywhere! Tailor it to reflect the specific skills and experiences that match the Financial Controller role. Use keywords from the job description to make it clear you’re the perfect fit for us.
Be Clear and Concise:When writing your application, clarity is key. Keep your sentences straightforward and avoid jargon unless it’s relevant. We want to understand your qualifications without wading through unnecessary fluff!
Apply Through Our Website:Make sure to apply through our website for the best chance of being noticed! It helps us keep track of applications and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining our team!
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. Prepare examples of how you've improved financial processes or reporting accuracy.
✨Understand the Charity Sector
Familiarise yourself with charity finance, especially around grant management and the Charity SORP. Be prepared to discuss how your experience aligns with Ataxia UK's mission and how you can contribute to their goals.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
You'll be leading a small finance team, so highlight your leadership experience. Think of specific instances where you've successfully managed a team or driven improvements in financial operations. This will show that you're not just a numbers person but also a great leader.
✨Empathy is Key
Ataxia UK is all about making a difference for those affected by ataxia. Be ready to express your passion for the cause and how your values align with theirs. Share any relevant experiences that showcase your commitment to equality and inclusion.
