Chief Finance Officer in Colchester

Methodist Chapel Aid Ltd (MCA) is a long‑established bank specialising in lending to churches and associated organisations across the UK. As we enter a period of planned growth in both lending and deposits, we are seeking a Chief Finance Officer who will also serve as Company Secretary and act as deputy to the Chief Executive. This is a rare opportunity to shape the financial strategy of a small, regulated financial institution with a strong mission-driven purpose.

What the role offers

• You will hold regulatory SMF2 responsibility and lead MCA’s financial strategy, ensure robust governance, and oversee the organisation’s financial operations.
• As a key member of the leadership team, you will work closely with the Board and Chief Executive to support sustainable growth, maintain regulatory compliance, and strengthen our financial systems and controls.
• The role combines strategic influence with hands‑on responsibility - ideal for someone who thrives in a small, collaborative environment.

Key responsibilities

• Operational Duties: Oversee the day-to-day financial operations of the Company, including financial processes, monthly and year-end accounts, staff supervision, Board reporting and support for key governance committees.
• Regulatory Compliance: Ensure the Company meets all PRA, FCA, HMRC and other regulatory requirements, including the preparation of regulatory returns and documentation.
• Financial Leadership: Provide strategic financial leadership including budgeting, forecasting, capital and liquidity planning, financial reporting, and assessment of loan applications.
• Company Secretary Duties: Support the Board in fulfilling its governance and statutory responsibilities, including maintaining statutory records and advising on governance best practice.

Essential experience and attributes

• Professionally qualified accountant (ACA, ACCA, CIMA or equivalent).
• Senior finance leadership experience, ideally within a regulated financial services environment.
• Experience preparing statutory accounts and managing external audits.
• Ability to operate effectively in a small organisation with hands‑on responsibilities.
• Experience advising Boards and supporting governance or Company Secretary functions.
• Strong analytical, financial modelling and problem‑solving skills.
• Excellent communication skills and the ability to explain complex financial matters clearly.
• Commitment to good governance.
• Adaptable, collaborative and comfortable balancing strategic and operational work.

Desirable experience

• Background in banking, mutual organisations, church or charity finance.
• Strong understanding of PRA/FCA regulatory frameworks and prudential requirements.
• Knowledge of mission‑based or niche lending sectors, particularly lending to churches.
• Experience acting as deputy to a Chief Executive or contributing to strategic planning.

Practical details

• Full‑time, based on‑site at our York office.
• Occasional travel for meetings, regulatory engagement or sector events.
• As part of a small team, flexibility and willingness to support colleagues across functions is essential.

We are only able to consider applicants from those who are eligible to work in the UK without requiring sponsorship.

Timeline

• Closing date: 1 May 2026
• Interview date: 4 June 2026 (planned) in person in York

Applications

Only applications which include both a cover letter and a CV will be considered. Please upload these (it may be easier to do this as one combined file) or email to .