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- Tasks: Lead financial management and support operations in a hands-on role.
- Company: Join a respected non-profit in Surrey, empowering communities for over 35 years.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, hybrid work options, and potential part-time discussions.
- Why this job: Shape the future of a purpose-driven organisation while making a real social impact.
- Qualifications: Qualified accountant with senior finance experience, ideally in the charity sector.
- Other info: This role requires a DBS check; past issues won't necessarily disqualify you.
The predicted salary is between 46000 - 58000 £ per year.
Are you a values-driven finance leader who thrives on making a difference not just in spreadsheets, but in people's lives? Our client believes in doing finance differently. They are looking for a Head of Finance and Resources who is not only technically skilled but proactive, people-focused and ready to roll up their sleeves. This is a hands-on role with strategic reach perfect for someone who enjoys balancing high-level planning with real-time problem-solving. This is more than just a finance role; it’s an opportunity to shape the future of a truly purpose-driven organisation.
Location: Woking / Hybrid (on-site presence ideally 3 times per week)
Salary: £53,000 - £55,000 DOE per annum (pro rata if part-time)
Permanent Full-time (35 hrs/week) open to part-time discussions.
About Us: Our client is a respected non-profit organisation in Surrey that has been supporting people facing mental health challenges, substance use, and wellbeing needs for over 35 years. Operating with values at the heart of everything they do, Catalyst empowers communities through responsive, high-quality services and compassionate care.
About the Role: Reporting directly to the CEO, the Head of Finance and Resources plays a pivotal leadership role across the organisation. You’ll be responsible for strategic financial management, operational support functions, and leading a small finance and business support team. You’ll also sit on the Senior Leadership Team, contributing to organisational planning, compliance, and resource management.
Key responsibilities include:
- Overseeing budgeting, forecasting, and financial performance tracking
- Producing insightful analysis and reporting for leadership and trustees
- Managing bank reconciliations and monthly management accounts
- Ensuring compliance with statutory and regulatory frameworks (Charity Commission, HMRC, Companies House)
- Maintaining accountability for restricted funding streams and service-level finances
- Leading financial input into bids, tenders, and strategic planning
- Overseeing payroll, pensions, contracts, suppliers, and insurance
- Supporting office management, property, and operational infrastructure
Who We’re Looking For: Both technically confident and people-oriented, a leader who understands that finance is a partner in transformation, not just a function of compliance.
You will be:
- A qualified accountant (ICAEW, ACCA, or equivalent)
- Experienced in senior finance roles, ideally in the charity or non-profit sector
- Proficient in Xero and advanced Excel
- Approachable and collaborative, with the ability to influence and support teams across the organisation
- Hands-on when needed, with strong attention to detail and a proactive mindset
- Comfortable balancing strategic oversight with day-to-day management
- Committed to working in a mission-led, values-driven environment
You will thrive in this role if you:
- Bring clarity to complexity and confidence to decision-making
- Enjoy working alongside operational and service delivery teams
- Want to align your financial skills with meaningful social impact
- Are motivated by purpose and excited to help grow a community-based organisation
This post is subject to a DBS check. Please note past drug and/or alcohol or criminality history will not necessarily discount you from undertaking this role.
Head of Finance and Resources employer: eSift Ltd
Contact Detail:
eSift Ltd Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Finance and Resources
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the non-profit sector, especially in areas related to mental health and community support. Understanding the unique challenges and opportunities in this field will help you demonstrate your commitment to the organisation's mission during interviews.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in the charity sector, particularly those in finance roles. Attend relevant events or webinars to connect with like-minded individuals and gain insights into the specific financial practices that are effective in non-profit organisations.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss how you've successfully led teams in previous roles. Highlight your experience in balancing strategic oversight with hands-on management, as this is crucial for the Head of Finance and Resources position.
✨Tip Number 4
Showcase your proficiency in Xero and advanced Excel skills by preparing examples of how you've used these tools to drive financial performance and reporting in past roles. Being able to speak confidently about your technical skills will set you apart from other candidates.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Finance and Resources
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Read the job description thoroughly to grasp the key responsibilities and required skills. Highlight how your experience aligns with their need for a proactive, people-focused finance leader.
Tailor Your CV: Customise your CV to reflect your relevant experience in finance, particularly in the charity or non-profit sector. Emphasise your qualifications, such as being a qualified accountant, and any specific software skills like Xero and advanced Excel.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your passion for making a difference through finance. Discuss your leadership style, your ability to collaborate, and how you can bring clarity to complex financial situations.
Highlight Relevant Achievements: In both your CV and cover letter, include specific examples of past achievements that demonstrate your strategic oversight and hands-on management capabilities. This could involve successful budgeting, compliance management, or team leadership.
How to prepare for a job interview at eSift Ltd
✨Show Your Values
Since the organisation is values-driven, make sure to express your alignment with their mission. Share examples of how your financial leadership has positively impacted people’s lives and how you prioritise values in your decision-making.
✨Demonstrate Hands-On Experience
This role requires a proactive approach, so be ready to discuss specific instances where you've rolled up your sleeves to solve problems. Highlight your experience in managing day-to-day operations while also contributing to strategic planning.
✨Emphasise Collaboration Skills
As a leader who thrives on collaboration, prepare to share examples of how you've worked effectively with teams across different functions. Discuss how you’ve influenced and supported colleagues in achieving shared goals.
✨Prepare for Technical Questions
Given the technical nature of the role, brush up on your knowledge of budgeting, forecasting, and compliance frameworks. Be ready to discuss your proficiency in Xero and advanced Excel, as well as any relevant financial regulations.
