At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead finance and resources to support children with special educational needs.
- Company: Join IPSEA, a charity dedicated to empowering young people with SEND.
- Benefits: Flexible working, generous leave, and pension contributions.
- Other info: Inclusive workplace seeking diverse candidates to reflect the communities we serve.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in the lives of children and young people.
- Qualifications: Qualified accountant with charity finance experience and strong leadership skills.
The predicted salary is between 40000 - 50000 £ per year.
Help us protect the legal rights of children and young people with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND) and strengthen SEND Support in law.
Location: Home-based or Hybrid (with occasional travel to our office in Takeley, Essex, and other locations in England for events and meetings)
Reports to: Chief Executive
Contract type: Permanent
Hours: Part‑time (up to 28 hours per week considered)
Who we are
IPSEA is a national charity working to ensure that children and young people with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) receive the educational support they are legally entitled to. Since we were formed in 1983, we have helped to improve the education experience of thousands of children and young people across England. We do this by providing free and independent legal advice and casework support for families, undertaking policy work and delivering training on the SEND legal framework.
What you’ll do
We are seeking a Head of Finance and Resources to provide strategic leadership and operational management across IPSEA’s finance, HR and Fundraising functions, ensuring the charity has robust financial management, effective systems, and sustainable infrastructure to deliver its mission. This role focuses on organisational management, financial integrity and coordination across functions, rather than providing specialist Fundraising or HR expertise.
This is a hands‑on role. While the postholder leads on financial strategy, planning and control, they are also responsible for delivering key financial processes and day‑to‑day operations. The role oversees key organisational functions including HR and fundraising. They line manage the Finance Administrator, HR Manager and Fundraising Manager, ensuring alignment, coordination and effective use of organisational resources across the organisation. Professional expertise and delivery within HR and fundraising remain the responsibility of the relevant managers. The role does not carry responsibility for income generation targets but ensures robust financial and operational support for fundraising activity.
As Head of Finance and Resources, you will be responsible for:
- Financial systems, control and operations
- Financial reporting and Management Accounts
- Budgeting, forecasting and financial strategy
- Restricted funds, compliance and governance
- Fundraising and income support
- Leadership, resources and organisational operations
This role offers the opportunity to make a real difference as part of a small, friendly, and dedicated team. If you are passionate about helping children and young people with SEND and have the skills and experience needed, we would love to hear from you.
Who are we looking for?
You’ll need to be a fully qualified accountant (ACA, ACCA, CIMA, CIPFA or equivalent) with a strong understanding and experience of charity finance, SORP, compliance, risk management and governance. Significantly experienced in charity finance and financial management or organisational resources, you will be able to prepare management accounts, budgets, forecasts and financial reports and support budgeting and longer‑term financial planning. You will have experience of managing and motivating staff while working with senior leadership teams and/or trustees. You have strong organisational and analytical skills and can analyse financial information and translate it for non‑financial stakeholders. Experience improving systems, processes or digital infrastructure would be preferred but is not essential. It would be desirable if you had experience overseeing HR, fundraising or wider operational functions, or managing multi‑disciplinary teams.
IPSEA should also reflect the communities we support. We would particularly like to hear from candidates from ethnic minority backgrounds, LGBTQIA+ people, under‑served communities and disabled people, as well as those with lived experience of the SEND system, either as a child or as a parent/carer.
What we can offer you:
- 5% employer pension contributions
- Flexible working arrangements
- 25 days annual leave plus bank holidays plus an additional day off for your birthday (pro‑rated if part‑time)
Head of Finance and Resources in Takeley employer: IPSEA - Independent Provider of Special Education Advice
IPSEA is an exceptional employer dedicated to making a meaningful impact in the lives of children and young people with special educational needs and disabilities. With a flexible working environment, including home-based or hybrid options, and a supportive team culture, employees are empowered to grow professionally while contributing to a vital cause. The organisation offers competitive benefits such as a generous pension scheme and additional leave for personal celebrations, making it an attractive place for those seeking rewarding employment in the charity sector.
Contact Details:
IPSEA - Independent Provider of Special Education Advice Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Finance and Resources in Takeley
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the charity sector, especially those involved with SEND. A friendly chat can lead to insider info about job openings or even a referral.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching IPSEA and its mission. Understand their values and how your skills align with their goals. This will help you stand out as someone who truly cares about making a difference.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your pitch! Be ready to explain how your experience in finance and resources can directly support IPSEA's mission. Keep it concise and impactful—show them you mean business!
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining our team and making a real impact.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Finance and Resources in Takeley
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the Head of Finance and Resources role. Highlight your experience in charity finance, compliance, and governance, as well as any relevant leadership roles you've held. We want to see how your skills align with our mission!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Share your passion for supporting children and young people with SEND and explain why you’re the perfect fit for this role. Be sure to mention specific experiences that demonstrate your financial expertise and leadership skills.
Showcase Your Achievements:When detailing your past roles, focus on your achievements rather than just responsibilities. Use numbers and examples to illustrate how you’ve improved financial systems or led successful teams. We love seeing tangible results!
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 into the right hands. Plus, it shows you’re keen on joining our team at IPSEA!
How to prepare for a job interview at IPSEA - Independent Provider of Special Education Advice
✨Know Your Numbers
As a Head of Finance and Resources, you'll need to demonstrate your financial acumen. Brush up on key financial metrics, budgeting processes, and compliance standards relevant to charities. Be ready to discuss how you've applied these in previous roles.
✨Showcase Leadership Skills
This role involves managing teams and collaborating with senior leadership. Prepare examples of how you've successfully led teams, motivated staff, and worked with stakeholders. Highlight your experience in fostering a positive team environment.
✨Understand the Mission
IPSEA is all about supporting children and young people with SEND. Familiarise yourself with their mission and values. Be prepared to discuss how your skills and experiences align with their goals and how you can contribute to their mission.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect questions that assess your problem-solving abilities and decision-making skills. Think of scenarios where you've had to navigate financial challenges or improve systems. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your responses.
