At a Glance
- Tasks: Support the CFO in finance operations and ensure accurate financial processing.
- Company: Join Happy Doggo, a charity dedicated to improving the lives of street dogs worldwide.
- Benefits: Gain hands-on experience in finance while making a positive impact.
- Other info: Dynamic startup environment with opportunities for personal and professional growth.
- Why this job: Be part of a mission-driven team that values resilience and joy over suffering.
- Qualifications: Experience in finance or bookkeeping; studying towards AAT, ACCA, or CIMA preferred.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 42000 £ per year.
In early 2023, Happy Doggo was just an idea taking shape in Niall Harbison’s mind: a charity, operating like a startup, working to fix the global street dog problem for good. Fast forward to 2026 months and we are an official charity, with a global team and a worldwide following. At its core, Happy Doggo will always operate a little differently: instead of showcasing the (very real) suffering of street dogs around the world, we share stories of their incredible resilience, ingenuity, and joy. Our mission is just getting off the ground, and we’re ready to take everything to the next level.
Role Overview
The Assistant Finance Manager will play a key support role within the finance function, working closely with the CFO to ensure accurate financial processing, strong internal controls, and the effective implementation of finance policies and procedures. This is a hands-on role suited to someone who is detail-oriented, organised, and comfortable managing day-to-day finance activities while supporting higher-level finance operations. The role does not carry ultimate financial responsibility but is critical to ensuring the smooth running of the finance function.
Key Responsibilities
- Support the CFO in the implementation and ongoing maintenance of finance policies, procedures, and internal controls.
- Assist with day-to-day finance operations to ensure accuracy, consistency, and compliance.
- Act as a key point of contact for finance-related queries from internal teams.
- Review and process employee expense claims in line with company policy.
- Review, code, and categorise supplier invoices accurately.
- Ensure invoices and expenses are correctly approved and recorded in a timely manner.
- Support payment preparation and supplier reconciliations as required.
- Carry out light bookkeeping tasks, including posting transactions and maintaining accurate financial records.
- Assist with bank reconciliations and basic account reconciliations.
- Support month-end processes, ensuring transactions are recorded accurately and on time.
- Assist in the preparation of internal financial reports for review by the CFO.
- Help maintain accurate cost categorisation to support reporting and budget tracking.
- Support ad hoc financial analysis and data requests.
- Identify opportunities to improve finance processes and administrative efficiency.
- Support audit preparation and respond to information requests where required.
- Ensure financial records are maintained in line with regulatory and organisational requirements.
Skills & Experience
- Previous experience in a finance, accounts, or bookkeeping role.
- Strong attention to detail and accuracy.
- Comfortable working with accounting software and spreadsheets (Xero experience preferred, but not required).
- Good understanding of basic accounting principles.
- Strong organisational and time-management skills.
- Ability to work independently while closely supporting senior finance leadership.
- Part-qualified or studying towards AAT, ACCA, CIMA, or similar.
- Experience working in an SME or charity environment.
- Exposure to finance policy development or implementation.
Personal Attributes
- Methodical and reliable, with a strong sense of ownership over tasks.
- Confident communicating with non-finance colleagues.
- Discreet and professional when handling sensitive financial information.
- Proactive and willing to learn and develop within the role.
Assistant Finance Manager employer: Happy Doggo
Happy Doggo is an exceptional employer that fosters a vibrant and supportive work culture, where every team member plays a vital role in our mission to improve the lives of street dogs globally. With a focus on employee growth, we offer opportunities for professional development and encourage innovative thinking to enhance our finance processes. Located in a dynamic environment, our charity operates with the agility of a startup, making it an exciting place for those looking to make a meaningful impact while advancing their careers.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Assistant Finance Manager
✨Tap into Campus Networks
If you're still in uni, don’t forget to engage with your campus's career services and attend finance-related events. Banks often do presentations and recruitment drives on campus, so put yourself out there and make use of these opportunities to show off your passion for the field.
✨Get Certified
Consider pursuing relevant certifications like the CFA or ACCA while you’re job hunting. They not only beef up your CV but also connect you with professional bodies which can lead to networking opportunities and even job openings in banking and financial services.
✨Connect on Professional Platforms
Join finance-focused groups on platforms like LinkedIn and engage in discussions. This can really help you stand out from the crowd, allowing potential employers to see your knowledge and interest in industry trends. Plus, you might stumble upon job postings shared exclusively within the group.
✨Apply Directly and Be Proactive
Don’t shy away from reaching out directly to firms like Happy Doggo. Use their websites and apply through them, but also consider following up with a polite email to express your enthusiasm. Being proactive can make a huge difference in getting noticed in the competitive financial services sector.
We think you need these skills to ace Assistant Finance Manager
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Numbers!:In the banking and financial services world, quantifiable achievements are key. Make sure your CV highlights your grades in relevant subjects, any financial certifications you hold, and specific projects where you've delivered measurable results. Employers love to see how your skills translate into real-world success.
Tailor Your Cover Letter to the Role:When applying for a full-time position, your cover letter should make a direct connection between your experience and the job description. Don't just state your enthusiasm for finance—dive into how your background in banking or financial analysis sets you apart. Let your passion shine through while being specific about what you can bring to Happy Doggo.
Include Relevant Financial Software Experience:If you've worked with financial modelling tools or software like Excel, SAP, or specific analytical tools during your studies or internships, bring that up! Highlighting your proficiency can really make your application pop and show you're ready to hit the ground running in a full-time role.
Research and Reflect:Before hitting that 'apply' button on Happy Doggo's website, do a little digging. Look up their recent projects, values, and culture. Reflecting their ethos in your application can make a huge difference and show you’re genuinely interested in being part of the team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Happy Doggo
✨Brush Up on Financial Analysis Skills
Make sure you're well-versed in financial concepts and analytical techniques relevant to banking and financial services. Get comfortable with tools like Excel for modelling or financial forecasting, as technical questions in this area are common during interviews with Happy Doggo.
✨Prepare for Case Studies
Expect to tackle case studies that demonstrate your problem-solving skills in real-world banking scenarios. Familiarise yourself with the types of problems you might face—think risk assessments or investment evaluations—and be ready to articulate your thought process clearly.
✨Show Your Passion for Finance
Since this is a full-time position, employers at Happy Doggo will be keen to see your genuine interest in finance. Be prepared to discuss recent industry trends or news articles that excite you, showcasing your enthusiasm and engagement with the field.
✨Network with Industry Professionals
Before your interview, reach out to current or former Happy Doggo employees on platforms like LinkedIn. They'll offer unique insights into the company's culture and the interview process, which can give us a delightful edge in showcasing a good fit for the team.
