Head of Finance in Dunfermline

Head of Finance in Dunfermline

Dunfermline Full-Time 50000 - 60000 ÂŁ / year (est.) No home office possible
Scottish SPCA

At a Glance

  • Tasks: Lead the Finance team and modernise financial management for a leading animal welfare charity.
  • Company: Scottish SPCA, Scotland’s top animal welfare charity with a rich history.
  • Benefits: Competitive salary, professional development, and the chance to make a real impact.
  • Why this job: Shape the future of a values-led charity while driving positive change.
  • Qualifications: Fully qualified accountant with experience in finance and a passion for charity work.
  • Other info: Join a dynamic team dedicated to preventing animal suffering and improving services.

The predicted salary is between 50000 - 60000 ÂŁ per year.

Scottish SPCA is Scotland’s leading animal welfare charity, with a proud history stretching back to 1839. With a turnover of circa £20m, over 300 colleagues, 900 volunteers and animal centres across the country, the organisation plays a vital role in protecting domestic, farm and wild animals. Highly trusted by the public and supported by around 45,000 regular donors, Scottish SPCA is both a household name and a charity with real influence across Scotland. The charity is entering an exciting period of renewal and innovation, with a clear ambition to modernise how it operates while remaining firmly rooted in its mission to prevent animal suffering.

Financial leadership is central to this journey, ensuring strong stewardship, sustainability and the confidence to invest in future impact.

The opportunity involves reporting to the Director of Corporate Services, leading the Finance function and playing a key role in modernising financial management, systems and ways of working across the organisation. This is a hands‑on leadership role offering real breadth, influence and development — ideal for an experienced Finance Business Partner or qualified accountant ready to step into a senior, organisation‑wide role and help shape the future of a values‑led charity. You will balance strong technical delivery with forward‑looking business partnering, bringing insight, challenge and innovation to support decision‑making, fundraising growth and long‑term planning.

Key responsibilities:

  • Lead, develop and motivate the Finance Team, building capability and modern, high‑performing ways of working.
  • Own monthly management accounts, analysis and commentary, providing insight that supports confident decision‑making.
  • Lead the annual business planning and budgeting process, developing a rolling three‑year financial plan.
  • Oversee year‑end accounts and audit, working closely with auditors, trustees and budget holders.
  • Drive improvement in finance systems, processes and controls, reducing manual effort and supporting organisational change.

About you:

  • Fully qualified accountant (ACA / ACCA / CIMA or equivalent), with strong post‑qualification experience.
  • Likely coming from a Finance Business Partner, Senior Management Accountant ready for a step up or someone drawn to the role for other reasons.
  • Experience within the charity or not‑for‑profit sector strongly preferred, or a clear motivation to move into it.
  • Confident communicator with the ability to engage non‑finance colleagues and influence at senior level.
  • Curious, positive and change‑oriented, with an interest in modernising systems, processes and ways of working.

This is an ideal opportunity for someone with a passion and motivation for change, developing a team and improving services and working practices. You will support one of Scotland’s flagship charitable organisations through this period of development.

To find out more, please get in touch with your CV and contact details; our experienced consultant will ring you for a confidential discussion. Closing date for applications is Friday 8th May 2026.

Eden Scott is the exclusive retained search partner for this role.

Head of Finance in Dunfermline employer: Scottish SPCA

Scottish SPCA is an exceptional employer, offering a unique opportunity to lead financial innovation within Scotland's foremost animal welfare charity. With a strong commitment to employee development and a collaborative work culture, the organisation empowers its team to make a meaningful impact while enjoying the benefits of working in a values-driven environment. Located across Scotland, employees can take pride in contributing to a cause that resonates deeply with the community, supported by a dedicated network of colleagues and volunteers.
Scottish SPCA

Contact Detail:

Scottish SPCA Recruiting Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫

We think this is how you could land Head of Finance in Dunfermline

✨Tip Number 1

Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the finance sector, especially those who have experience in charities. A friendly chat can lead to insider info about job openings or even a referral.

✨Tip Number 2

Prepare for interviews by researching the Scottish SPCA and its mission. Show us how your financial expertise can help modernise their operations and support their goals. Tailor your examples to highlight your relevant experience!

✨Tip Number 3

Don’t underestimate the power of follow-ups! After an interview, drop a quick thank-you email to express your appreciation and reiterate your enthusiasm for the role. It keeps you fresh in their minds!

✨Tip Number 4

Apply through our website for a smoother process! We want to see your application, and applying directly helps us keep track of candidates. Plus, it shows you're keen on joining our team!

We think you need these skills to ace Head of Finance in Dunfermline

Financial Leadership
Management Accounting
Budgeting
Financial Planning
Audit Management
Finance Systems Improvement
Team Development
Stakeholder Engagement
Communication Skills
Change Management
Analytical Skills
Problem-Solving Skills
Charity Sector Knowledge
Qualified Accountant (ACA / ACCA / CIMA or equivalent)

Some tips for your application 🫡

Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV speaks directly to the role of Head of Finance. Highlight your experience in financial management and any relevant achievements that align with the charity sector. We want to see how you can bring your skills to modernise our financial systems!

Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to express your passion for animal welfare and how your background makes you the perfect fit for this role. We love seeing genuine enthusiasm, so let your personality come through!

Showcase Your Leadership Skills: As a hands-on leader, it's crucial to demonstrate your ability to motivate and develop teams. Share examples of how you've built high-performing teams in the past and how you plan to do the same at Scottish SPCA. We’re all about collaboration here!

Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to submit your application through our website. It’s the best way for us to keep track of your application and ensure it gets the attention it deserves. Plus, it’s super easy to do!

How to prepare for a job interview at Scottish SPCA

✨Know Your Numbers

As a Head of Finance, you’ll need to demonstrate your financial acumen. Brush up on key financial metrics relevant to the charity sector, and be ready to discuss how you've used data to drive decision-making in previous roles.

✨Show Your Passion for Animal Welfare

Scottish SPCA is all about animal welfare, so make sure to express your genuine interest in their mission. Share any personal experiences or motivations that connect you to the cause, as this will resonate well with the interviewers.

✨Prepare for Scenario Questions

Expect questions that assess your problem-solving skills and ability to lead a team. Think of specific examples where you’ve improved financial processes or led a team through change, and be ready to explain your thought process and outcomes.

✨Engage with Non-Finance Colleagues

Since the role involves influencing non-finance staff, practice explaining complex financial concepts in simple terms. Prepare to discuss how you’ve successfully collaborated with other departments to achieve common goals in the past.

Head of Finance in Dunfermline
Scottish SPCA
Location: Dunfermline

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