Finance Lead

At Evolve Credit Union, we believe financial services should make a genuine difference to people's lives. Our purpose is simple: To make a difference because we care. As a member-owned financial cooperative, our members remain at the heart of everything we do. We are committed to providing trusted, accessible financial services while creating a positive impact within the communities we serve.

We are now seeking a Finance Lead who shares our values and can combine strong financial skills with a people-focused and collaborative approach. We are looking for someone who will grow with the organisation and play an important part in our continued development and success.

OUR VALUES

• Care and compassion in how they work with others
• Integrity, professionalism and accountability
• A collaborative and supportive approach
• Respect for colleagues, members and stakeholders
• A commitment to continuous improvement
• Pride in delivering excellent service
• A positive attitude and willingness to contribute to our culture

THE ROLE

The Finance Lead will play a key role in supporting the day-to-day financial operations of Evolve Credit Union. Reporting directly to the CEO, the successful candidate will oversee the smooth running of the finance function, support regulatory and financial reporting requirements, supervise two Accounts Officers, and contribute positively to the wider management team.

This role is ideal for someone who is:

• Technically strong in operational finance
• Highly organised and detail-focused
• Confident communicating financial information
• Collaborative and approachable
• Motivated by working within a purpose-led organisation

The successful candidate will also be comfortable preparing and presenting financial information to the Finance & Investment Committee and Board of Directors when required.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

Financial Operations

• Prepare monthly management accounts and financial reports for the CEO, Finance & Investment Committee and Board of Directors.
• Ensure accurate processing of daily financial transactions and accounting records.
• Oversee bank reconciliations, payment processing, financial controls and ledger management.
• Assist with the preparation of financial projections and ongoing monitoring of actual performance against projections.
• Maintain accurate financial records and supporting documentation.
• Manage and maintain the Fixed Asset Register.
• Oversee payroll administration, pensions and associated staff payment processes ensuring accuracy and confidentiality.

Regulatory & Compliance Support

• Prepare quarterly and annual financial returns and supporting information for submission to the PRA, FCA and other regulatory bodies.
• Support the CEO in ensuring compliance with accounting standards, internal controls and regulatory requirements.
• Support audit processes and liaise with internal and external auditors as required.
• Ensure financial processes and procedures are properly documented and followed.
• Maintain awareness of relevant regulatory and financial reporting developments impacting the Credit Union.
• Support the assessment and financial analysis of commercial and corporate lending applications where required.

Financial Reporting & Investments

• Support the management, monitoring and reporting of the Credit Union's investment portfolio and cash management activities.
• Prepare investment and financial reports for the Finance & Investment Committee, CEO and Board as required.
• Carry out bank and investment reconciliations and maintain accurate financial records.
• Monitor and report on actual financial performance against projections, identifying trends, variances and areas of concern.
• Assist with financial analysis, forecasting and reporting activities.

Team Leadership & Support

• Supervise and support two Accounts Officers in their day-to-day duties.
• Promote a positive, collaborative and supportive team environment.
• Assist with training and development of finance staff where required.
• Support continuous improvement of financial systems and processes.

Communication & Collaboration

• Prepare and confidently present financial information to the Finance & Investment Committee and Board when required.
• Communicate financial information clearly and professionally to both financial and non-financial audiences.
• Work collaboratively with colleagues across departments to support organisational objectives.
• Contribute positively to the wider management team and organisational culture.

General

• Attend meetings and committees as required.
• Undertake project work and additional duties appropriate to the role.
• Promote the values, culture and member-focused ethos of Evolve Credit Union.

PERSON SPECIFICATION

Essential Criteria

• AAT Level 3 qualified or above, a final-year part-qualified accountant (ACCA/CIMA/ACA or equivalent), a fully qualified accountant, or able to demonstrate significant relevant finance experience.
• Minimum of 3 years' relevant experience working within a finance or accounts environment, including financial reporting and analysis responsibilities.
• Experience preparing management accounts and financial reports.
• Experience of reconciliations, financial projections, variance analysis and operational finance processes.
• Experience preparing or supporting financial and regulatory reporting.
• Experience preparing and presenting financial information to senior management, committees and/or boards.
• Experience working with Microsoft Excel and Microsoft Office applications.

Skills & Knowledge

• Strong numerical and analytical skills with excellent attention to detail.
• Ability to organise workloads effectively and meet deadlines.
• Strong understanding of financial controls and good accounting practice.
• Ability to work independently and use initiative appropriately.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Confidence presenting information clearly and professionally.
• Ability to communicate effectively with staff, senior management, committees and stakeholders.

Personal Qualities

• Positive, approachable and collaborative attitude.
• Strong integrity and ability to maintain confidentiality.
• Dependable, organised and professional approach to work.
• Commitment to delivering excellent service and supporting colleagues.
• Alignment with the values and culture of Evolve Credit Union.

Desirable Criteria

• Experience within financial services, banking, credit unions or regulated environments.
• Experience working with auditors or regulatory reporting requirements.
• Experience liaising with internal and external auditors.
• Experience supervising or supporting staff.
• Understanding of PRA/FCA regulatory requirements.
• Experience supporting systems improvements or process development.
• Understanding of GDPR and data protection requirements.
• General understanding of financial planning, forecasting and organisational reporting.
• Awareness of taxation and audit requirements relevant to regulated organisations.

WHAT WE OFFER

• Salary of £34,000 - £45,000 depending on qualifications and experience.
• 32 days annual leave inclusive of 11 statutory holidays.
• Flexible working arrangements including hybrid working opportunities.
• Day off for your birthday.
• Enhanced Company Sick Pay Scheme (after 1 year's service).
• Staff Perks Discount Card.
• Employee Assistance Programme.
• Benenden Private Healthcare.
• Paid training and development opportunities.
• Supportive and collaborative working environment.
• Opportunity to contribute to a meaningful community-focused organisation.

PRE-EMPLOYMENT CHECKS

Appointment to this position will be subject to the successful completion of an Access NI check and any other pre-employment checks deemed necessary by Evolve Credit Union.

HOW TO APPLY

To apply, please submit your CV together with a covering letter outlining how you meet all of the essential criteria and why you believe you are suitable for the role. Applications should be submitted no later than midnight on 11th July 2026. Only applications which include both a CV and covering letter will be considered. Shortlisting will be based on the extent to which applicants demonstrate how they meet the essential criteria outlined within the Person Specification.

WHY JOIN EVOLVE CREDIT UNION?

At Evolve Credit Union, people matter. We are building a workplace culture based on trust, support, collaboration and shared purpose. We are looking for someone who not only brings strong finance capability, but who also wants to make a positive contribution to our team, our members and our wider community. If you are looking for a role where your work genuinely makes a difference, we would love to hear from you. As part of our commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion, we actively welcome applications from individuals of all ethnic and cultural backgrounds. We are dedicated to building a workforce that reflects the communities we serve.