At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead financial strategy and manage day-to-day finance operations for Cornwall VSF.
- Company: Join a close-knit team supporting the voluntary and community sector in Cornwall.
- Benefits: Hybrid working, competitive salary, and opportunities for professional development.
- Other info: Flexible hours and a collaborative environment with travel across beautiful Cornwall.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on financial sustainability and governance in a meaningful organisation.
- Qualifications: Qualified accountant with experience in charity finance and strong analytical skills.
The predicted salary is between 42208 - 46208 £ per year.
Hours: 28 or 35 hours per week (0.8 or 1.0 FTE to be discussed with appointed applicant)
Salary: £42,208 - £46,208 pro rata per annum
Location: Hybrid, with time split between home working and working in communities across Cornwall
About the role
Reporting to the Director of Operations and working as part of the Senior Leadership Team, you will take responsibility for effective day-to-day financial management while developing medium- and long-term plans that support Cornwall VSF’s resilience, growth and impact. You will work closely with the CEO, Trustees, colleagues, auditors, funders and external providers.
What you’ll do
- Lead financial strategy, planning, reserves, treasury management and investment strategy.
- Manage core finance operations, including payroll, accounts payable and receivable, reconciliations, cash flow, records and controls.
- Prepare monthly management accounts, forecasts, budgets and clear analysis for the Senior Leadership Team and Board.
- Lead annual accounts, external audit and statutory reporting, including Charity Commission and tax requirements.
- Oversee restricted funds and grant income, supporting applications, claims and funder reporting.
- Strengthen financial governance, systems, policies, data quality and risk management across the organisation.
- Provide robust financial appraisal, scenario modelling and advice to support services, funding bids, investment and income diversification.
About you
You will be a qualified accountant (ACA, ACCA, CIMA or equivalent) with current finance management and leadership experience. You will bring:
- Extensive experience of bookkeeping, management accounting, reporting, budgeting, forecasting and cash management.
- A strong understanding of charity or voluntary-sector finance and statutory reporting requirements.
- Excellent analytical judgement and the ability to explain complex financial information clearly.
- Advanced Excel skills and confidence using finance systems; experience of Xero and Dext would be beneficial.
- Strong planning, organisation, communication, negotiation and problem-solving skills.
- A collaborative, adaptable leadership style and a commitment to accuracy, inclusion and continuous professional development.
This is an opportunity to combine hands-on financial management with strategic influence in a small, committed team. You will help ensure Cornwall VSF remains financially sustainable, accountable and equipped to champion the VCSE sector.
Working with us
Cornwall VSF connects, supports and promotes the voluntary, community and social enterprise sector across Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly. We are looking for a qualified, experienced Financial Controller to lead our financial strategy and day-to-day finance operations, strengthen governance and provide the insight that enables confident, evidence-based decisions. We are a small, close-knit team working with partners across Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly. The role is offered at 21 or 28 hours per week, with the final arrangement agreed with the successful applicant. Regular or occasional travel will be required, and appointment is subject to a satisfactory DBS check.
Further information
Please read the Financial Controller Role Profile and Person Specification below for full details of the responsibilities and requirements. The closing date for applications is 11:59pm, Friday 4 September. It is planned for interviews to be held the week commencing 14th September.
Cornwall VSF: Financial Controller in England employer: Cornwall Voluntary Sector Forum
The Olive Project is an exceptional employer dedicated to fostering a supportive and inclusive work environment for its staff. With a strong focus on professional development, employees benefit from comprehensive training opportunities, including the chance to gain accredited qualifications. Located in Truro, the organisation champions holistic support for Black and Minoritised Victims and Survivors, ensuring that team members are equipped to make a meaningful impact in the community while enjoying a competitive salary and pension contributions.
Contact Details:
Cornwall Voluntary Sector Forum Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Cornwall VSF: Financial Controller in England
✨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 Cornwall Voluntary Sector Forum. 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 Cornwall VSF: Financial Controller in England
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 Cornwall Voluntary Sector Forum.
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 Cornwall Voluntary Sector Forum'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 Cornwall Voluntary Sector Forum
✨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 Cornwall Voluntary Sector Forum.
✨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 Cornwall Voluntary Sector Forum 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 Cornwall Voluntary Sector Forum 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.
