At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead financial strategy and oversee operations in a mission-driven bank.
- Company: Join a long-established bank focused on lending to churches across the UK.
- Benefits: Full-time role with opportunities for professional growth and collaboration.
- Other info: Based in York, with occasional travel; flexibility and teamwork are key.
- Why this job: Shape the future of a small, impactful financial institution while working closely with leadership.
- Qualifications: Must be a qualified accountant with senior finance leadership experience.
The predicted salary is between 75000 - 90000 £ per year.
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 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
Chief Finance Officer and Company Secretary in York employer: Methodist Chapel Aid Ltd
Contact Detail:
Methodist Chapel Aid Ltd Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Chief Finance Officer and Company Secretary in York
✨Network Like a Pro
Get out there and connect with people in the finance sector! Attend industry events, join relevant online forums, and don’t be shy about reaching out to potential contacts on LinkedIn. We all know that sometimes it’s not just what you know, but who you know!
✨Ace the Interview
Prepare for your interviews by researching the company inside out. Understand their mission, values, and recent developments. We recommend practising common interview questions and even doing mock interviews with friends to boost your confidence. Show them you’re the perfect fit for their team!
✨Follow Up
After your interview, don’t forget to send a thank-you email! It’s a great way to express your appreciation for the opportunity and reiterate your interest in the role. We believe this small gesture can make a big difference in leaving a lasting impression.
✨Apply Through Our Website
When you find a role that excites you, apply directly through our website! It streamlines the process and ensures your application gets the attention it deserves. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive and engaged with our mission!
We think you need these skills to ace Chief Finance Officer and Company Secretary in York
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter to highlight your experience in financial leadership and governance. We want to see how your skills align with our mission-driven purpose at MCA.
Showcase Your Qualifications: As a professionally qualified accountant, don’t forget to emphasise your qualifications like ACA, ACCA, or CIMA. We’re looking for someone with solid credentials to lead our financial strategy.
Demonstrate Your Experience: Share specific examples of your past roles, especially in regulated environments. We love seeing how you’ve tackled challenges and contributed to strategic planning in previous positions.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to submit your application directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity!
How to prepare for a job interview at Methodist Chapel Aid Ltd
✨Know Your Numbers
As a Chief Finance Officer, you'll need to demonstrate your financial acumen. Brush up on key financial metrics relevant to the role, such as budgeting, forecasting, and regulatory compliance. Be ready to discuss how you've successfully managed these areas in previous roles.
✨Understand the Mission
Methodist Chapel Aid Ltd has a strong mission-driven purpose. Familiarise yourself with their values and how they impact financial decisions. Show that you’re not just about numbers but also about supporting the organisation's mission through sound financial strategy.
✨Prepare for Governance Questions
Since the role involves Company Secretary duties, expect questions about governance best practices. Think of examples where you've advised Boards or maintained statutory records. This will showcase your ability to support the Board effectively.
✨Show Your Collaborative Spirit
This position thrives in a small, collaborative environment. Be prepared to discuss how you've worked closely with teams and contributed to strategic planning. Highlight your adaptability and willingness to support colleagues across functions.