At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead financial strategy to support our environmental mission and enhance community engagement.
- Company: Join Earth Trust, a passionate charity dedicated to connecting people with nature.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, flexible working, and the chance to make a real difference.
- Other info: Collaborative environment focused on values and social impact.
- Why this job: Shape the future of an impactful charity while driving sustainable financial growth.
- Qualifications: Qualified accountant with senior finance leadership experience, preferably in a charity.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 80000 £ per year.
Earth Trust is looking for a Finance Director to help shape the next stage of our development as a place-based environmental charity with growing ambition, increasing complexity and a powerful mission. Based at Wittenham Clumps in Oxfordshire, Earth Trust cares for farmland, woodland, meadows, wetlands and community reserves, connecting people with nature and demonstrating how people and the natural world can thrive together. Our work brings together public engagement, learning, nature-friendly farming, partnerships and commercial activity in support of our charitable purpose.
This is a pivotal moment for the organisation. Alongside our established charitable work, we are delivering Gateway to Nature, a major programme to improve access, enhance the visitor experience and support growth in sustainable earned income. We need a Finance Director who can ensure this ambition is underpinned by clear, robust and commercially sound financial thinking.
As a member of the Executive Leadership Team, you will work closely with the Chief Executive, senior colleagues and Trustees to shape organisational direction, strengthen financial planning and ensure resources are aligned with impact. You will provide strategic financial insight, constructive challenge and practical support across the organisation. You will lead budgeting, forecasting, management accounts, statutory reporting, audit, financial governance, risk, reserves and controls. You will also support business cases, financial models, capital project oversight, trading activity and commercial decision-making.
We are looking for a qualified accountant with significant senior finance leadership experience, ideally gained in a charity or similarly complex organisation. You will bring strong technical finance skills, sound judgement, commercial awareness and the ability to communicate clearly with non-finance colleagues. Just as importantly, you will be collaborative, values-led and motivated by the opportunity to use finance as an enabler of environmental and social impact.
This role will suit someone who combines strategic leadership with a practical, hands-on approach, and who enjoys helping colleagues build financial confidence, accountability and discipline.
To apply, please send a CV and covering letter explaining why you are suitable and what attracts you to the role by Sunday 21st June.
Strategic Finance Director — Environmental Charity in Abingdon employer: Earth Trust
Earth Trust is an exceptional employer, offering a unique opportunity to contribute to meaningful environmental initiatives while working in the picturesque setting of Wittenham Clumps, Oxfordshire. Our collaborative and values-driven work culture fosters personal and professional growth, empowering employees to make a tangible impact on both nature and community engagement. With a focus on strategic financial leadership, we provide our team with the resources and support needed to thrive in their roles, ensuring that every member plays a vital part in our mission to connect people with nature.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Strategic Finance Director — Environmental Charity in Abingdon
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the environmental charity sector, especially those connected to Earth Trust. A friendly chat can open doors and give you insights that a job description just can't.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by knowing your stuff! Research Earth Trust’s projects and values. Show us how your finance skills can directly support their mission and make a real impact.
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t underestimate the power of follow-ups! After an interview, drop a quick thank-you email. It shows your enthusiasm and keeps you fresh in our minds.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining our team at Earth Trust.
We think you need these skills to ace Strategic Finance Director — Environmental Charity in Abingdon
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the role of Finance Director. Highlight your relevant experience in finance leadership, especially in charity or complex organisations, and showcase how your skills align with Earth Trust's mission.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Explain why you’re drawn to this role and how your values align with Earth Trust’s mission. Be specific about your experience and how it can help shape the organisation's future.
Showcase Your Financial Acumen:In both your CV and cover letter, don’t forget to highlight your technical finance skills and experience with budgeting, forecasting, and financial governance. We want to see how you can bring strategic insight to the table!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother application process. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves, so don’t miss out on this opportunity!
How to prepare for a job interview at Earth Trust
✨Know Your Numbers
As a Finance Director, you'll need to demonstrate your financial acumen. Brush up on key financial metrics relevant to Earth Trust's mission and be ready to discuss how you can apply these in a charity context. Show them you understand the balance between financial sustainability and environmental impact.
✨Align with Their Mission
Earth Trust is all about connecting people with nature. Make sure you articulate how your values align with their mission. Share examples from your past experiences where you've used finance to drive social or environmental change, showing that you're not just about the numbers.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect questions that assess your strategic thinking and problem-solving skills. Prepare for scenarios related to budgeting, forecasting, and risk management. Think of specific examples where you've successfully navigated complex financial challenges and how those experiences can benefit Earth Trust.
✨Showcase Your Collaborative Spirit
This role requires working closely with non-finance colleagues. Be ready to discuss how you've fostered collaboration in previous roles. Highlight instances where you've helped others build financial confidence and accountability, demonstrating your ability to communicate complex financial concepts in an accessible way.
