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- Tasks: Lead financial strategy and operations for a charity focused on mental health.
- Company: Join a trusted charity supporting mental health services across England.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working, generous leave, training opportunities, and more perks.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in mental health while collaborating with a passionate leadership team.
- Qualifications: Qualified accountant with senior finance leadership experience in charitable or social care sectors.
- Other info: We welcome diverse applicants, including those with lived experience and from various backgrounds.
We are looking for a Chief Finance Officer to lead the strategic direction and operational excellence of the organisation’s financial functions.
Join a leading charity provider of mental health services in England. Every year, the organisation supports thousands of people through its network of groups, services and helplines. The vision is for equality, fair treatment and maximum quality of life for everyone affected by mental illness. Help reach that goal by applying today.
If you are passionate about making a meaningful difference through strong financial stewardship, then we want to hear from you!
Location: London/Hybrid
Hours: Full time, flexible working available
Salary: ÂŁ85,453 to ÂŁ102,956 based on experience
Contract: Permanent
Closing Date: 5pm, 4 August 2025
Interviews: Interviews will be held in two stages: the first stage with the Executive Team and second stage with the Chief Executive and representatives from the Board of Trustees. Interviews will take place weeks commencing 1 and 8 September 2025.
Candidates may be asked to complete psychometric assessments as part of the recruitment process.
The Role
As the Chief Finance Officer, you will lead the strategic direction and operational excellence of the organisation’s financial functions, with overarching responsibility for financial control, reporting, planning and analysis, and finance operations. You will ensure robust financial stewardship, support data-driven decision-making, and enable long-term sustainability and growth through strong financial leadership and insight.
This role is a key member of that team, working alongside the Deputy Chief Executive, Chief Operating Officer, Chief People Officer, and Chief Business Improvement and Technology Officer. Together, you will shape the organisation’s strategy, culture, and delivery.
If you are excited by the opportunity to lead the effective management of the charity’s finances whilst helping to grow the important work of the organisation and to be part of a collaborative leadership team, then we would love to hear from you.
About You
You will be passionate about making a meaningful difference through strong financial stewardship and have substantial senior finance leadership experience, ideally within a charitable, social care, health, or values-led organisation.
- Qualified accountant (e.g. ACA, ACCA, CIMA, CIPFA) with a strong understanding of charity finance and Charities Statement of Recommended Practice (SORP) requirements.
- Proven success in strategic financial planning, budgeting, and risk management in a complex, multi-stakeholder setting.
- Demonstrated ability to manage audits, lead financial reporting, and ensure regulatory compliance.
- Experience supporting income diversification, including contract-based services, fundraising, and trading subsidiaries.
- Strong track record of building and leading high-performing finance teams, including business partnering and cross-functional collaboration.
About the Organisation
Work for an organisation that research shows is one of the most trusted major voluntary sector brands. In a rapidly changing world, the charity brings together delivery of care and support services, policy influencing, and campaigning – with people living with mental illness at the heart of what they do. The charity supports tens of thousands of people every year to get through crises, live independently and feel that they do not have to face mental illness alone. For over 50 years, the charity has campaigned for the rights of people severely affected by mental illness whilst working tirelessly to ensure that the people they support have a voice at all levels of the mental health system.
Benefits include:
- Employer funded pension
- Flexible working
- Life assurance
- Eye care vouchers
- Training opportunities
- 25 days annual leave, rising to 30 plus Bank Holidays
- Rewards, benefits and recognition platform
- Employee assistance programme
- Your birthday off
- Plus many more great benefits…
“It feels very rewarding to be part of such a meaningful organisation where everyone is valued and has the opportunity to make a difference” Current staff member
We actively encourage and welcome applications from everyone, including applicants with lived experience, those who are Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer (or questioning), Intersex and (asexual) (LGBTQIA+), people with a disability, and people from Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic (BAME) backgrounds.
Chief Finance Officer employer: Rethink Mental Illness
Contact Detail:
Rethink Mental Illness Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Chief Finance Officer
✨Tip Number 1
Network with professionals in the charity sector, especially those who have experience in financial leadership roles. Attend relevant events or webinars to connect with potential colleagues and learn more about the organisation's culture and values.
✨Tip Number 2
Familiarise yourself with the Charities Statement of Recommended Practice (SORP) and current trends in charity finance. This knowledge will not only help you in interviews but also demonstrate your commitment to understanding the unique challenges faced by charities.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for the psychometric assessments by practising similar tests online. This will help you feel more confident and perform better during the recruitment process, showcasing your analytical and problem-solving skills.
✨Tip Number 4
Research the organisation's recent projects and initiatives related to mental health services. Being able to discuss these in your conversations will show your genuine interest in their mission and how your financial expertise can contribute to their goals.
We think you need these skills to ace Chief Finance Officer
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights your relevant experience in financial leadership, particularly within charitable or values-led organisations. Emphasise your qualifications and any specific achievements that align with the role of Chief Finance Officer.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that not only outlines your passion for mental health services but also demonstrates your understanding of charity finance and the unique challenges it presents. Use specific examples from your past roles to illustrate your strategic financial planning and risk management skills.
Highlight Relevant Qualifications: Clearly state your accounting qualifications (e.g., ACA, ACCA, CIMA, CIPFA) and any additional training related to charity finance. Mention your familiarity with the Charities Statement of Recommended Practice (SORP) to show you understand the regulatory landscape.
Prepare for Psychometric Assessments: Since candidates may be asked to complete psychometric assessments, consider practising with sample tests. This will help you feel more comfortable and confident during the recruitment process, showcasing your analytical and decision-making abilities effectively.
How to prepare for a job interview at Rethink Mental Illness
✨Understand the Organisation's Mission
Before your interview, take some time to research the charity's mission and values. Understanding their commitment to mental health services will help you align your answers with their goals and demonstrate your passion for making a meaningful difference.
✨Prepare for Financial Scenarios
As a Chief Finance Officer, you'll likely be asked about your experience with financial planning, budgeting, and risk management. Prepare specific examples from your past roles that showcase your strategic thinking and problem-solving skills in complex financial situations.
✨Showcase Leadership Experience
Highlight your experience in building and leading high-performing finance teams. Be ready to discuss how you've fostered collaboration across departments and supported income diversification, as these are key aspects of the role.
✨Be Ready for Psychometric Assessments
Since candidates may be asked to complete psychometric assessments, it’s wise to familiarise yourself with common types of assessments used in finance roles. Practising these can help you feel more confident and prepared on the day of your interview.