At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead finance and operations, ensuring efficient management and strategic oversight.
- Company: Join CLES, a renowned economics think tank making a real impact.
- Benefits: Enjoy a four-day work week, flexible hours, and generous holiday entitlement.
- Other info: Inclusive workplace with a strong focus on professional development.
- Why this job: Be part of a progressive team tackling the UK's economic challenges.
- Qualifications: Recognised accounting qualification and senior-level charity finance experience required.
Salary: £50,000 - £54,000 per annum (depending on skills and experience)
Location: Manchester (Hybrid working with regular office attendance: 2 days a week)
Contract: Permanent, Full Time
About CLES
CLES is an independent economics think tank and charity dedicated to tackling the UK's most pressing economic challenges. For over 40 years, we have collaborated with local governments, the NHS, national government, universities, and communities to create impactful, practical solutions. Our expertise in community wealth building has gained international recognition, and we embody our progressive ethos by offering a four-day full-pay working week. At CLES, we foster a deeply collaborative and flexible environment where strong relationships are valued, reflected in our regular social activities and annual residential gatherings.
The Opportunity
We are seeking a proactive and detail-oriented Head of Finance and Operations who will play a crucial role in steering our financial and operational functions. Working closely with our senior management team, you will combine strategic insights with hands-on delivery, ensuring the efficient management of our financial systems, governance, and HR processes. You will be supported by a dedicated Finance and Office Administrator, allowing you to focus on higher-level financial oversight and operational excellence.
Key Responsibilities:
- Manage day-to-day finances including cash flow, financial controls, and oversight of bookkeeping tasks.
- Prepare and present quarterly and annual management accounts, VAT returns, and payroll submissions.
- Lead the administration of governance, working closely with the board of trustees on compliance and regulatory filings.
- Oversee daily office operations, including IT infrastructure and health and safety.
- Administer HR processes such as recruitment, onboarding, and the management of employee records.
About You:
- You possess a recognised accounting qualification (ideally ACA, ACCA, CIMA) or AAT Level 4, with substantial senior-level charity finance experience.
- Demonstrated experience in financial management, including preparation of management accounts and familiarity with accounting software such as Sage.
- Strong understanding of governance and compliance within a charity context, alongside experience in HR administration.
- Excellent organisational skills and a proactive, solutions-focused approach to work.
- Proven ability to communicate effectively with diverse stakeholders, building trust and collaboration.
Our Offer to You:
- A four-day working week with full pay for a 30-hour commitment.
- Flexible and hybrid working options, promoting a healthy work-life balance.
- Generous holiday entitlement, starting at 20 days (the equivalent of 5 full weeks off) and rising to 24 days (6 weeks) with service, plus additional leave for birthdays and Christmas.
- A robust pension scheme with an employer contribution starting at 6% and increasing with tenure.
- A supportive learning and development culture, with a dedicated budget for professional growth and annual team retreats.
Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion
CLES is committed to fostering an inclusive workspace and welcomes applications from diverse backgrounds. We actively encourage candidates from all sections of the community to apply.
How to Apply
Click apply and you will be redirected to our careers page which has instructions on how to submit your application. Please note, we are operating a rolling recruitment process, so early applications are encouraged. Initial application cutoff is Monday, 24th of August 2026 at 9:00am. Interviews are scheduled for Wednesday, 2nd of September 2026. If we do not fill the position, the advert will remain open for ongoing applications. We look forward to welcoming you to our team at CLES!
Head of Finance and Operations in Bolton employer: CLES
CLES is an exceptional employer that prioritises employee well-being and professional growth, offering a unique four-day working week with full pay, flexible hybrid working options, and generous holiday entitlements. Our collaborative and inclusive work culture fosters strong relationships among team members, supported by regular social activities and dedicated learning opportunities. Located in Manchester, we provide a meaningful role in a respected charity focused on impactful economic solutions, making it an ideal place for those seeking rewarding employment.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Finance and Operations in Bolton
✨Tap into Campus Networks
If you're still in uni, don’t forget to engage with your campus's career services and attend finance-related events. Banks often do presentations and recruitment drives on campus, so put yourself out there and make use of these opportunities to show off your passion for the field.
✨Get Certified
Consider pursuing relevant certifications like the CFA or ACCA while you’re job hunting. They not only beef up your CV but also connect you with professional bodies which can lead to networking opportunities and even job openings in banking and financial services.
✨Connect on Professional Platforms
Join finance-focused groups on platforms like LinkedIn and engage in discussions. This can really help you stand out from the crowd, allowing potential employers to see your knowledge and interest in industry trends. Plus, you might stumble upon job postings shared exclusively within the group.
✨Apply Directly and Be Proactive
Don’t shy away from reaching out directly to firms like CLES. Use their websites and apply through them, but also consider following up with a polite email to express your enthusiasm. Being proactive can make a huge difference in getting noticed in the competitive financial services sector.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Finance and Operations in Bolton
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Numbers!:In the banking and financial services world, quantifiable achievements are key. Make sure your CV highlights your grades in relevant subjects, any financial certifications you hold, and specific projects where you've delivered measurable results. Employers love to see how your skills translate into real-world success.
Tailor Your Cover Letter to the Role:When applying for a full-time position, your cover letter should make a direct connection between your experience and the job description. Don't just state your enthusiasm for finance—dive into how your background in banking or financial analysis sets you apart. Let your passion shine through while being specific about what you can bring to CLES.
Include Relevant Financial Software Experience:If you've worked with financial modelling tools or software like Excel, SAP, or specific analytical tools during your studies or internships, bring that up! Highlighting your proficiency can really make your application pop and show you're ready to hit the ground running in a full-time role.
Research and Reflect:Before hitting that 'apply' button on CLES's website, do a little digging. Look up their recent projects, values, and culture. Reflecting their ethos in your application can make a huge difference and show you’re genuinely interested in being part of the team!
How to prepare for a job interview at CLES
✨Brush Up on Financial Analysis Skills
Make sure you're well-versed in financial concepts and analytical techniques relevant to banking and financial services. Get comfortable with tools like Excel for modelling or financial forecasting, as technical questions in this area are common during interviews with CLES.
✨Prepare for Case Studies
Expect to tackle case studies that demonstrate your problem-solving skills in real-world banking scenarios. Familiarise yourself with the types of problems you might face—think risk assessments or investment evaluations—and be ready to articulate your thought process clearly.
✨Show Your Passion for Finance
Since this is a full-time position, employers at CLES will be keen to see your genuine interest in finance. Be prepared to discuss recent industry trends or news articles that excite you, showcasing your enthusiasm and engagement with the field.
✨Network with Industry Professionals
Before your interview, reach out to current or former CLES employees on platforms like LinkedIn. They'll offer unique insights into the company's culture and the interview process, which can give us a delightful edge in showcasing a good fit for the team.
