At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead financial management and reporting for a humanitarian organisation, ensuring strategic oversight.
- Company: Respected UK-based humanitarian membership organisation making a real difference.
- Benefits: Hybrid working, competitive salary, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Why this job: Join a mission-driven team and make an impact in a high-profile environment.
- Qualifications: Fully qualified accountant with experience in charity finance and strong communication skills.
- Other info: Dynamic role with opportunities to contribute to emergency response efforts.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 84000 ÂŁ per year.
A respected UK-based humanitarian membership organisation is looking for a Head of Finance to oversee financial management and reporting, providing financial leadership across routine operations and periods of major emergency response. Reporting to the Director of Finance and Resources and managing a small finance team, the Head of Finance will provide strategic and operational oversight of budgeting, forecasting, management accounts, statutory reporting, and financial governance. The role acts as a key advisor to senior leadership, Trustees, and external stakeholders, supporting robust decision-making in a complex, highâprofile environment.
Working Pattern: Fullâtime, permanent
Location: Hybrid, London (minimum 2x per month in office)
Key duties will include:
- Leadership of the Finance function within a missionâdriven, membershipâbased organisation
- Production of core, appeal and strategic budgets, alongside longâterm financial forecasts
- Oversight of cashflow, treasury management and financial performance monitoring in a fluctuating income environment
- Preparation and presentation of management accounts and financial reports for senior leadership, Trustees, and finance committees
- Oversight of statutory accounts, yearâend processes and audits, acting as the primary liaison with external auditors
- Ensuring compliance with charity accounting standards, donor requirements, and all relevant statutory and regulatory obligations
- Review and continuous improvement of financial controls, policies and systems
- Line management, development and support of a small Finance team
- Contribution to organisational preparedness for largeâscale emergency appeals and rapid income surges
About You
- Fully qualified accountant (ACA, ACCA, CIMA or equivalent)
- Proven experience in a senior finance role within a charity, NGO, or valuesâled organisation
- Strong understanding of charity accounting, restricted funds and donor compliance
- Confident communicator, able to translate complex financial information for nonâfinance stakeholders
- Comfortable operating in dynamic, highâpressure environments with diverse income streams
For an informal conversation about the role or to learn more, please contact Madeleine at Ivy Rock Partners.
Head of Finance in London employer: Ivy Rock Partners
Contact Detail:
Ivy Rock Partners Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice đ¤Ť
We think this is how you could land Head of Finance in London
â¨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the finance sector, especially those who have experience in charities or NGOs. A friendly chat can lead to insider info about job openings or even a referral.
â¨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by brushing up on your knowledge of charity accounting and financial governance. We recommend practising common interview questions and scenarios related to budgeting and financial reporting to show youâre the right fit.
â¨Tip Number 3
Donât underestimate the power of follow-ups! After an interview, drop a quick thank-you email to express your appreciation and reiterate your enthusiasm for the role. It keeps you fresh in their minds!
â¨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website for the best chance at landing that Head of Finance role. We make it easy for you to showcase your skills and experience directly to the hiring team!
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Finance in London
Some tips for your application đŤĄ
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV reflects the skills and experiences that match the Head of Finance role. Highlight your financial leadership experience and any work in charity or NGO sectors, as this will resonate with us.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to tell us why you're passionate about finance in a humanitarian context. Share specific examples of how you've led financial teams or managed budgets in previous roles.
Showcase Your Communication Skills: Since you'll be translating complex financial info for non-finance folks, make sure to demonstrate your communication skills in your application. Use clear, concise language and avoid jargon where possible.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website. Itâs the best way for us to receive your application and ensures youâre considered for the role. Plus, it shows youâre keen on joining our mission-driven team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Ivy Rock Partners
â¨Know Your Numbers
As a Head of Finance, you'll need to be on top of your financial game. Brush up on key financial metrics and be ready to discuss how you've managed budgets, forecasts, and cash flow in previous roles. This will show your expertise and confidence in handling the financial responsibilities of the position.
â¨Understand the Organisation's Mission
Familiarise yourself with the humanitarian organisation's mission and values. Be prepared to explain how your financial strategies can support their goals, especially during periods of emergency response. This demonstrates that youâre not just about numbers but also about making a positive impact.
â¨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect questions about how you would handle specific financial challenges, such as fluctuating income or compliance issues. Think of examples from your past experience where you successfully navigated similar situations. This will help you showcase your problem-solving skills and strategic thinking.
â¨Communicate Clearly
Since you'll be translating complex financial information for non-finance stakeholders, practice explaining financial concepts in simple terms. During the interview, aim for clarity and confidence in your communication. This will highlight your ability to engage with senior leadership and Trustees effectively.