Head of Finance

Head of Finance

Freelance 70000 - 75000 £ / year (est.) Home office (partial)
EA First Compass House

At a Glance

  • Tasks: Lead financial planning, budgeting, and reporting for a dynamic organisation.
  • Company: Join IPSE, the UK's leading support network for freelancers and the self-employed.
  • Benefits: Competitive salary, flexible part-time hours, and generous holiday allowance.
  • Other info: Enjoy hybrid working and be part of a supportive team culture.
  • Why this job: Make a real impact in a role that shapes the future of independent professionals.
  • Qualifications: Fully qualified accountant with strong UK finance experience and excellent communication skills.

The predicted salary is between 70000 - 75000 £ per year.

We are delighted to be partnering with IPSE in London who are looking for an experienced and proactive Head of Finance to take ownership of their finance function.

This is a highly autonomous role, ideal for someone who is equally comfortable presenting financial insights to senior leaders and rolling up their sleeves to resolve operational challenges.

The position is part time, paying £70,000-£75,000 (full time equivalent) per annum, offering hybrid working.

IPSE (The Self-Employed Association) is the UK's leading membership organisation dedicated to supporting freelancers, contractors, consultants and the self-employed.

They champion the interests of their members through policy, lobbying, expert advice and a range of business support services.

As the world of work continues to evolve, IPSE plays an increasingly important role in ensuring independent professionals have the support, representation and resources they need to thrive.

Joining IPSE means becoming part of a small, committed team where everyone's contribution matters.

You'll have the opportunity to influence strategic decisions, improve processes and help shape the future of an organisation with a clear purpose.

As Head of Finance, you will have overall responsibility for the financial management of the organisation, ensuring robust financial control, accurate reporting and effective operational support.

Key responsibilities include

  • Lead the organisation's financial planning, budgeting and forecasting processes.
  • Maintain a rolling cash flow forecast and provide meaningful financial insight to the Managing Director and Senior Leadership Team.
  • Produce monthly management accounts, board reports and financial analysis that support strategic decision-making.
  • Monitor departmental budgets, investigate variances and work with budget holders to improve financial performance.
  • Identify opportunities to improve efficiency and reduce operating costs.
  • Own the month-end and year-end close processes.
  • Ensure accurate accounting records and oversee reconciliations within Xero.
  • Deliver timely and accurate management information to agreed deadlines.
  • Prepare financial papers for Board meetings and present financial performance where required.
  • Lead the annual audit process and act as the key contact for external auditors.
  • Ensure compliance with all statutory and regulatory requirements, including HMRC, Companies House, VAT and Corporation Tax.
  • Maintain strong financial governance and internal controls.
  • Manage the monthly payroll process through the outsourced payroll provider.
  • Manage workplace pension administration and statutory payroll obligations.
  • Manage supplier payments and maintain strong supplier relationships.
  • Line manage the part-time Bookkeeper.
  • Oversee finance-related HR administration for starters and leavers.
  • Manage key operational compliance activities, including company insurance renewals and employee benefits administration.

We're looking for an experienced finance leader who enjoys taking ownership and making things happen.

Essential

  • Fully qualified accountant (ACA, ACCA, CIMA/CGMA or CIPFA).
  • Minimum 3-5 years' post-qualification experience within a UK finance environment.
  • Strong knowledge of UK accounting standards (FRS102/IFRS) and UK tax legislation including VAT, PAYE and Corporation Tax.
  • Experience producing management accounts, budgets, forecasts and cash flow models.
  • Strong working knowledge of cloud accounting systems such as Xero and Microsoft Dynamics.
  • Excellent Excel skills, including financial modelling, pivot tables and advanced formulas.
  • Experience managing payroll and workplace pension administration.
  • Outstanding communication skills with the ability to explain financial information clearly to non-finance stakeholders.
  • Highly organised, self-motivated and comfortable working independently.
  • A proactive mindset with a passion for improving processes and finding practical solutions.

Desirable

  • Previous experience working within a membership organisation, charity, SME or not-for-profit environment.
  • Experience managing operational or HR administration alongside finance responsibilities.
  • 21-24.5 hours per week.
  • 25 days plus bank holidays FTE and your birthday off.
  • Aegon Pension (company pension contribution 5%).
  • Employee assistance programme.
  • Life Assurance.
  • Part-time opportunity offering genuine flexibility.
  • Private healthcare (Vitality).
  • A varied and influential leadership role with significant autonomy.
  • The opportunity to work closely with the Managing Director and Board, helping shape the future direction of the organisation.
  • A collaborative and supportive team culture where your ideas and expertise will be valued.
  • Hybrid working and a healthy work-life balance.
  • The chance to contribute to an organisation that champions and supports the UK's self-employed community.
  • #J-18808-Ljbffr

Head of Finance employer: EA First Compass House

EA First Compass House in Cannock is an excellent employer, offering a dynamic work environment that fosters professional growth and development. With a focus on collaboration and innovation, employees are encouraged to enhance their skills while contributing to the company's success during this exciting growth phase. The competitive compensation package and supportive culture make it a rewarding place for finance professionals seeking meaningful employment.

EA First Compass House

Contact Details:

EA First Compass House Recruitment Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫

We think this is how you could land Head of Finance

Show Off Your Expertise Online

In the banking and financial services world, sharing your insights on platforms like LinkedIn can really set you apart. Write articles about market trends or finance tips, and engage in discussions in relevant groups. This not only boosts your visibility but also highlights your knowledge to potential clients.

Join Freelance Platforms and Networking Events

Freelancing in finance can be competitive, so make sure you're on platforms like Upwork or Fiverr, specifically targeting finance gigs. Also, look for finance networking events or webinars to connect with small businesses that might need your services. Meeting people face-to-face (or online) can score you those elusive freelance contracts.

Build a Stunning Portfolio

Since you're going freelance, having a solid portfolio is a must. Showcase your previous work, such as reports or analyses, and consider using case studies to highlight your approach. The more you can demonstrate your skills, the easier it is for clients to trust you with their finances.

Direct Outreach is Key

For freelance gigs, don't wait for opportunities to come to you. Identify companies or startups that align with your skills and reach out directly. A personalised message introducing yourself and proposing how you could add value can go a long way. Plus, keep an eye on EA First Compass House for freelance opportunities—they might have just what you’re looking for!

We think you need these skills to ace Head of Finance

Communication Skills
Attention to Detail
SQL
Automation
Problem-Solving Skills
Data Engineering
Python

Some tips for your application 🫡

Showcase Your Financial Savvy:When applying for a freelance role in banking and financial services, we need to see your expertise front and centre! Mention specific financial regulations or tools you've mastered, and feel free to include your relevant qualifications, like CFA or ACCA, to bolster your credibility.

Build a Stellar Portfolio:Since this is a freelance gig, your portfolio is your ticket to impressing us at EA First Compass House. Include examples of past projects you've completed—think financial analyses, investment reports, or forecasting models. Be sure to highlight the results you achieved!

Tailor Your Rates and Availability:We want to see that you're flexible and can align with our needs. Clearly outline your freelance rates, availability for projects, and whether you're open to long-term collaborations or just ad-hoc gigs. This makes it easier for us to understand how we can work together!

Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:In your cover letter, express not just your skills, but also why you're excited about joining EA First Compass House. Share your passion for financial services and how you plan to tackle challenges in this sector. This is your chance to connect on a personal level—make it count!

How to prepare for a job interview at EA First Compass House

Show Off Your Financial Savvy

When you're talking with EA First Compass House, make sure to highlight your experience with financial modelling, risk assessment, or portfolio management. Freelance work often requires a good level of financial literacy, so prepare to discuss any relevant tools you've used, whether it's Excel or specific financial software.

Bring Your Portfolio to Life

A freelance role means you’ll want to showcase your previous work effectively. Put together a portfolio that not only highlights your projects but also demonstrates the outcomes - think case studies or success stories that showcase how your financial skills made a difference for past clients.

Know Your Regulations and Compliance

In the banking and financial services world, understanding compliance and regulations is crucial. Make sure you’re up to date with the latest standards as they relate to your expertise. Be prepared for specific questions about how you've navigated these in past roles or how you'd approach potential compliance challenges.

Be Ready to Discuss Your Rates and Availability

As a freelancer, the topic of rates and availability can come up early on. Be clear about what you offer and how you charge. It might also help to have a few examples in mind where your expertise saved someone money or improved efficiency to justify your rates to EA First Compass House.