At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead finance and legal operations, ensuring compliance and strategic financial planning.
- Company: Join a mission-driven charity focused on legal support and community impact.
- Benefits: Part-time hours, competitive salary, and the chance to make a difference.
- Other info: Opportunity for professional growth in a supportive environment.
- Why this job: Shape the financial future of a charity while supporting vital legal services.
- Qualifications: Strong knowledge of charity finance and experience in budgeting and compliance.
The predicted salary is between 39600 - 48400 £ per year.
The Head of Finance and Legal Income ensures trustees can meet their statutory duties under the Charities Act 2011, Charity Commission guidance and the Charities SORP. The postholder maintains accurate financial records, prepares compliant financial reports, safeguards assets and restricted funds, oversees proportionate internal controls, escalates material financial risks, and supports strategic financial leadership across the organisation.
They ensure compliance with charity law, tax requirements, Legal Aid Agency rules and SRA Accounts Rules, and support the organisation's financial sustainability through budgeting, cash flow oversight, risk management, and by working with the Senior Leadership Executive on the strategic development of the fundraising policy and financial forecasting and resilience.
Financial Reporting & Compliance
- Prepare timely monthly management accounts, forecasts and cashflow updates.
- Support preparation of statutory accounts and the trustees' annual report in line with SORP/FRS 102.
- Maintain complete accounting records and support the annual audit/independent examination.
- Provide trustees with clear financial information to fulfil CC3 duties.
Financial Planning, Budgeting & Cash Flow
- Lead annual budgeting and financial forecasting.
- Manage banking relationships and oversee the Client Account in line with SRA Accounts Rules.
- Work with the Senior Leadership Executive to support the strategic development of the fundraising policy and the strategic direction of finance, ensuring financial planning, income generation and sustainability are aligned with the charity's wider objectives.
Internal Controls, Risk & Assurance
- Maintain proportionate financial controls, delegated authorities and reconciliations.
- Ensure segregation of duties, audit trails and evidence of control operation.
- Maintain a financial risk and fraud register and escalate material risks promptly.
- Safeguard charity assets, restricted funds and client money.
- Support trustees in monitoring reserves and financial sustainability.
- Coordinate insurance, fraud response and serious incident reporting where required.
Legal Aid Agency & SRA Compliance
- Oversee Legal Aid Agency billing, WIP, disbursements, aged debt and recoupments.
- Ensure accurate recording and reconciliation of legal income through Quill and QuickBooks.
- Maintain compliance with SRA Accounts Rules.
Grant, Contract & Restricted Funds
- Ensure compliance with funder conditions and eligible cost rules.
- Prepare financial reports for funders and support funding applications.
Systems, Data & Financial Infrastructure
- Maintain the chart of accounts, finance policies and delegated authority framework.
- Oversee QuickBooks and Quill access controls, reconciliations and data quality.
- Provide clear leadership to the finance and billing team.
- Build financial capability among budget holders and trustees.
What We Are Looking For
- Strong knowledge of charity finance, SORP, and related law requirements.
- Experience in successfully overseeing budgeting, financial reporting, and compliance processes.
- Commitment to the mission and values of Central England Law Centre.
- A Covering Letter (maximum two sides of A4) addressing the job description criteria and why you want to work for the law centre.
- A completed Equality and Diversity Monitoring Form.
Head of Legal - Finance Company Head of Legal - Finance Company in Coventry employer: Central England Law Centre
Central England Law Centre is an exceptional employer, offering a supportive work culture that prioritises employee well-being and professional development. With opportunities for hybrid working in the vibrant city of Birmingham, our team is dedicated to providing meaningful legal assistance while fostering a collaborative environment that encourages growth and innovation.
Contact Details:
Central England Law Centre Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Legal - Finance Company Head of Legal - Finance Company in Coventry
✨Leverage Your Local Law Community
Get involved with local legal societies or student law associations; they often have great networking events and workshops. It’s a brilliant way to meet practising lawyers and potentially get referred for part-time roles at firms like Central England Law Centre.
✨Showcase Your Skills with Mock Trials
Participate in mock trial competitions or legal clinics while studying. This not only sharpens your skills but also gives you practical experiences to talk about in interviews—perfect for a part-time role in law!
✨Tap Into Internship Networks
Make use of university career services to find internships or part-time opportunities. Many law firms source talent directly from student pools, so getting your foot in the door can lead to a longer-term position at a place like Central England Law Centre!
✨Apply Directly on Our Website
Don’t forget to check out Central England Law Centre’s careers page for specific listings. Applying directly can often give you an edge—plus, we appreciate candidates who show interest in our firm specifically!
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Legal - Finance Company Head of Legal - Finance Company in Coventry
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Relevant Law Experience:When applying for this part-time role, make sure to focus on any legal internships, placements, or volunteer work you've done. Even if it’s just shadowing a lawyer, let us know how these experiences shaped your understanding of law and legal services. Every bit counts and shows your commitment to the field!
Use Clear Legal Terminology:Since you’re applying for a position in law services, it’s important to use appropriate legal terminology in your CV and cover letter. This will not only demonstrate your knowledge but also show us that you’re comfortable with the language of the profession. Avoid jargon overload, though; clarity is key!
Show Your Availability:As this is a part-time position, don’t forget to clearly state your availability in your application. Let us know what days and hours you’re free to work, and make it easy for us to see how you’d fit into our team. The more specific, the better!
Tailor Your Cover Letter Just For Us:Your cover letter is a chance to shine! Make it personal and tailored specifically to our role at Central England Law Centre. Talk about why you’re interested in legal services and how your experiences align with what we do. A sprinkle of passion goes a long way!
How to prepare for a job interview at Central England Law Centre
✨Show Off Your Legal Knowledge
Brush up on key legal concepts and current events in the legal realm that may affect your role. Be ready to discuss any relevant case studies or examples, as this demonstrates your engagement with the law beyond just theoretical knowledge.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect to face scenario-based questions where you might be assessed on how you'd handle specific legal situations. Think about practical examples from your studies or previous experiences that highlight your problem-solving skills and ethical considerations.
✨Balance Your Expertise with Flexibility
As this is a part-time role, be prepared to discuss your time management skills and how you can juggle work with your studies or other commitments. Employers will want to see how you can contribute effectively while maintaining a flexible schedule.
✨Highlight Your Commitment to Continuous Learning
Conveying your dedication to ongoing education in the legal field gives a strong impression. Mention any additional courses, certifications, or workshops you've pursued that enhance your legal expertise, showing your motivation for growth in your career.
