Assistant Director in Watford

The Role Are you a senior, qualified finance professional looking to combine commercial acumen with meaningful social impact? We are partnering with an expanding, high-impact charitable group (£40m+ turnover) to appoint an Associate Director of Finance. Joining the Executive Leadership Team, you will act as a pivotal strategic partner to the Finance Director, driving forward financial planning, performance reporting, and commercial analysis across a diverse, multi-site group. This role offers an exceptional balance between high-level strategic influence-presenting to the Board, shaping 10-year financial plans, and steering a £10m development programme-and hands-on leadership of a dedicated financial reporting team. Key Responsibilities Strategic Planning & Modelling: Own the group's multi-year budgeting, forecasting, and scenario-planning models to support major investments and commercial decisions. Performance & Board Reporting: Deliver high-insight monthly management reporting, variance analysis, and commentary directly to Executive Directors, Committees, and Trustees. Capital & Project Finance: Provide robust financial appraisal and risk management for ongoing property and capital development projects (~£10m). Compliance & Governance: Ensure robust financial controls and statutory reporting across complex frameworks (Charity SORP, Housing SORP, and Regulator of Social Housing standards). Team Leadership & Systems Evolution: Lead and develop the financial reporting team while collaborating with the Group Financial Controller to drive automation, ERP optimisation, and process simplification. Executive Partnership: Act as primary deputy to the Finance Director and build trusted relationships with external auditors, lenders, and regulators. What We Are Looking For Professional Credential: Fully qualified accountant (ACA, ACCA, CIMA, or equivalent). Group-Level Exposure: Proven track record in complex group budgeting, forecasting, and multi-stream financial modelling. Leadership & Influence: Experience leading reporting teams and the gravitas to constructively advise and challenge senior non-financial stakeholders. Technical Breadth: Strong background in complex year-end audits, statutory accounting, and compliance. Sector Relevance (Advantageous): Prior experience in non-profit, housing association, public sector, or social enterprise environments-particularly familiarity with Charity/Housing SORP-is highly desirable, though commercial candidates with transferable skills and shared values will be considered. Why Apply? Executive Impact: A seat at the leadership table shaping the trajectory of a rapidly growing organisation (~700 staff, 160+ sites). Mission-Driven Purpose: Real social value-your work directly underpins housing, youth development, and vital community services. Flexibility: Genuine hybrid working model combining home working with office presence and local site engagement. Interested in exploring this opportunity? Submit your CV or reach out directly for a confidential discussion regarding the role and client brief