Director of Finance

We are delighted to be retained and working in partnership with St Columba’s Hospice Care, as they look to appoint a Director of Finance. St Columba’s Hospice Care has provided hospice and end of life care for people with incurable illnesses and their families for almost 50 years and is well known across the Lothians. Their services span inpatient care, home‑based support, bereavement services, education, and research—underpinned by a strong reputation for compassionate and person‑centred care.

The Director of Finance is accountable for the Hospice’s strategic financial management and leadership as well as holding responsibility for driving efficiency, reducing costs and maximising funds available to invest in the organisation's purpose. As a proactive member of the Senior Leadership Team, you will contribute to the formulation, implementation, monitoring and evaluation of corporate strategy and business plans.

Key Responsibilities

• Strategy and Leadership: As a member of the senior leadership team, promote at all levels within the department and organisation, the Hospice’s vision, values and strategic objectives. Lead and ensure the implementation of the financial strategy for the Hospice, contributing to key decisions, policy development and strategy. Lead and develop the Finance team to support the business of the Hospice in a proactive, timely and customer‑focused fashion, responding flexibly to changing priorities, in line with organisational and contractual requirements. Fully participate in the development of Service Level Agreements between the Hospice and our partners including with Integrated Joint Boards, and NHS Lothian. Provide leadership in the budget setting process, providing necessary information to Directors, initiating discussions on budget allocations and presenting financial plans and budgets to the Board.
• Accounting and Financial Controls: Ensure the monitoring and management of appropriate financial systems and internal financial controls, including audit and ensuring compliance with GAAP/Charities SORP (OSCR) and applicable regulatory legislation for financial and tax reporting. Ensure all organisation‑wide insurance policies remain fit for purpose and are appropriately monitored. Responsible for the management and oversight of key finance and accounting systems including Sage 200, Cybertill, Cascade, Rotageek, and Payroll.
• Treasury Management and Investment: Ensure effective management of the Hospice’s finances and reserves within funds available, taking account of actual circumstances as well as the annual budget. Ensure cash flow and funds are well managed including building good relationships with the bank and external auditors, ensuring at all times, the availability of information to them. Manage the planning and forecasting of the Hospice’s cash flow, to ensure liquidity at all times. Account for investment income purchases, sales and revaluation of investments & regular liaison with investment managers. Ensure that appropriate financial analysis and reports are provided at various levels, both internally and externally – including monthly management accounts, budget and financial reports, as well as the annual report to the Board of Governors and AGM.
• Payroll and Pensions: Ensure the provision of a highly effective and accurate payroll service, ensuring compliance with all HMRC and GDPR data management requirements, together with the management of all pension plans, life assurance and salary sacrifice schemes currently operating within the Hospice.
• Governance: Ensure good governance of the Hospice by supporting the effective functioning of the audit and risk, investment, remuneration and nominations, and pension’s governance committees. Ensure the provision of up to date advice on charity and company law, HMRC / OSCR Guidance and other regulations affecting the charity sector. Provide reporting, analysis and assurance to the Board and sub‑committees on all aspects of the Hospice’s financial strategy and financial risk management. Lead the external audit process and ensure smooth year‑end procedures within the Hospice. Ensure compliance with all statutory and regulatory requirements in relation to annual reports/returns, VAT returns, tax submissions and other requirements.
• Departmental Management: Develop and implement the Finance department’s strategic objectives, as part of the Hospice’s business planning process. Act as a role model and leader for direct reports; supporting and guiding their development and enhancing their leadership/managerial skills. Proactively manage performance of staff, and address grievance/disciplinary issues in a timely way in line with organisational policy. Actively promote equality, diversity and inclusion in all aspects of the Hospice, as employer and service provider.

The Preferred Candidate

• Education and Qualifications: Qualified Accountant with full membership of one of the main bodies. Relevant post‑qualification experience. Evidence of continuing professional development.
• Knowledge and Experience: Proven track record of success in a senior leadership role within the Charity sector. Demonstrable experience and success in delivering excellence in corporate service areas. Experience of working at Board level. Broad management experience across financial, physical and technical areas. Experience of producing a range of written and financial reports for a variety of audiences. Experience of leading and managing change projects. Evidence of delivering planned outcomes, on time and within budget.