At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead financial control and ensure compliance while shaping our financial systems.
- Company: Join National Star, a charity making a real difference in people's lives.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, career development, fitness suite access, and employee discounts.
- Other info: Enjoy a supportive team environment and opportunities for innovation.
- Why this job: Combine technical expertise with social impact in a growing organisation.
- Qualifications: Experience in financial control, strong leadership, and excellent communication skills.
The predicted salary is between 50000 - 60000 £ per year.
We are seeking an experienced and technically proficient Head of Financial Control to join our finance team and play a critical role in safeguarding the financial sustainability and integrity of our organisation.
At National Star, we are dedicated to enabling people with disabilities to realise their full potential. Over the past 15 years, our charity has grown significantly – from £15 million to over £40 million in annual income – and now operates a broad range of education, care and health services across Gloucestershire and beyond. We employ over 1,300 staff and are proud of our reputation as a leader in innovative and life-changing support.
This senior role is responsible for ensuring strong financial control, regulatory compliance, and the accurate and timely reporting of financial information. You will lead on statutory financial reporting, audit, treasury management and tax compliance, supporting the organisation's strategic and operational decision-making.
Working closely with the Director of Finance and key internal and external stakeholders, your work will ensure the charity's financial integrity, transparency, and efficiency and will directly support National Star's ability to deliver high-quality services to those who need them most.
We are not standing still and key to this role will be a drive for change, challenging existing systems and controls to ensure that the organisation is using best practice to minimise risk whilst shaping and strengthening our financial systems at a time of growth and innovation.
We are looking for a highly capable, qualified finance professional who combines strong technical expertise with a values-driven approach to leadership. You will have:
- Demonstrable experience in a senior financial control or financial reporting role, ideally within the charity, education, or care sectors.
- In-depth knowledge of financial compliance, VAT, and charity accounting standards.
- Excellent communication skills, with the confidence to advise senior stakeholders and influence decision-making.
- Strong leadership skills, with the ability to manage a team and collaborate across departments.
- A proactive and solutions-focused mindset, with a commitment to continuous improvement.
- A values-led mindset and genuine commitment to the mission and purpose of National Star.
Joining National Star means becoming part of an organisation that is making a tangible difference in people's lives every single day. You will be supported by a dedicated team and have the opportunity to shape and strengthen our financial systems at a time of growth and innovation.
If you are seeking a role that combines technical challenge with social impact, we invite you to bring your expertise to National Star and help shape our future.
It's motivating to feel valued at work. That's why all new staff will receive a 'Golden Hello' up to the value of £250 for full-time staff (pro-rata for part-time employees) upon successful completion of their probation. Fantastic career development opportunities and comprehensive induction programme - theory and practical. Staff minibus from Cheltenham and Gloucester to our Ullenwood site Monday to Friday. Award-winning training. Use of fitness suite and swimming pool and staff clubs. Westfield medical cover. Life insurance cover. Employee helpline. Contributory pension scheme. Opportunity to purchase a TOTUM discount card. Employee discounts at attractions, high street retailers, supermarkets, utilities and motoring, plus much more.
Search the site in Cheltenham employer: National Star
At National Star, we pride ourselves on being a leading charity that not only champions the potential of individuals with disabilities but also fosters a supportive and innovative work environment for our employees. With over 1,300 dedicated staff members, we offer exceptional career development opportunities, a comprehensive induction programme, and a range of benefits including a 'Golden Hello', access to fitness facilities, and employee discounts. Join us in making a meaningful impact while enjoying a collaborative culture that values your expertise and commitment to our mission.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Search the site in Cheltenham
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the finance sector, especially those who have experience in charities or education. A friendly chat can lead to insider info about job openings or even a referral.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching National Star and its mission. Understand their financial challenges and think about how your skills can help them overcome these. This shows you're genuinely interested and ready to contribute.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your communication skills! You’ll need to explain complex financial concepts clearly to non-financial stakeholders. Try explaining your past experiences to friends or family to get comfortable with it.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, you’ll find all the latest roles and updates there, so keep checking back!
We think you need these skills to ace Search the site in Cheltenham
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the Head of Financial Control role. Highlight your experience in financial control and compliance, especially within the charity or education sectors. We want to see how your skills align with our mission!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're passionate about working with us at National Star. Share specific examples of how you've driven change and improved financial systems in your previous roles.
Showcase Your Leadership Skills:We’re looking for someone who can lead and inspire a team. In your application, mention any leadership experiences you’ve had, especially those that demonstrate your ability to collaborate across departments and influence decision-making.
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity. We can’t wait to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at National Star
✨Know Your Numbers
Before the interview, brush up on your financial knowledge, especially around charity accounting standards and compliance. Be ready to discuss specific examples from your past roles that demonstrate your expertise in financial control and reporting.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Style
Prepare to talk about your leadership approach and how you've successfully managed teams in the past. Think of instances where you’ve influenced decision-making or driven change within an organisation, as this will resonate well with their values-driven mindset.
✨Understand Their Mission
Familiarise yourself with National Star’s mission and the impact they have on people's lives. Be prepared to articulate how your values align with theirs and how you can contribute to their goals, particularly in safeguarding financial integrity.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
Prepare thoughtful questions that show your interest in the role and the organisation. Inquire about their current financial challenges or how they envision the future of their financial systems. This demonstrates your proactive mindset and genuine commitment to continuous improvement.