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For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead finance and purchasing functions to enhance financial insight and governance.
- Company: St Oswald’s Hospice, a respected charity in the North East.
- Benefits: Make a meaningful impact while enjoying a supportive work environment.
- Why this job: Combine strategic thinking with operational leadership in a values-driven organisation.
- Qualifications: Qualified accountant with strong financial reporting and team leadership experience.
- Other info: Join a diverse and inclusive workplace committed to continuous improvement.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 ÂŁ per year.
St Oswald’s Hospice is one of the North East’s most respected charities, providing specialist care and support to children, young people and adults with life‑limiting conditions. We are now seeking an exceptional Head of Finance & Purchasing to play a pivotal leadership role in strengthening financial insight, governance and procurement across the organisation.
This is a fantastic opportunity for a qualified accountant who enjoys combining strategic thinking with operational leadership, and who is motivated by making a meaningful impact through their work.
The Opportunity
Reporting to the Director of Finance, you will lead the organisation’s finance and purchasing functions, ensuring strong financial stewardship while helping the organisation use data, systems and technology to improve decision‑making. Key priorities include:
- Delivering high-quality monthly financial reporting and insight to support strategic decisions
- Leading efficient month‑end and year‑end processes, ensuring strong statutory compliance
- Driving digital improvement and automation across finance systems and reporting
- Supporting managers through strong financial business partnering
- Overseeing cashflow forecasting and treasury management
- Embedding value‑for‑money, sustainable and well‑governed procurement
- Leading and developing a high‑performing finance and purchasing team
You will also act as a trusted adviser across the organisation, helping leaders understand financial trends, risks and opportunities.
About You
We are looking for someone who brings both technical credibility and collaborative leadership. You will likely have:
- Strong experience in financial reporting, budgeting and financial systems
- Experience working in a complex organisation, ideally within the charity or not‑for‑profit sector
- Experience leading and developing teams
- Strong analytical skills with advanced Excel and reporting tools (e.g. Power BI)
- The ability to communicate financial insight clearly to non‑financial colleagues
- Experience of Charity SORP, fund accounting and charity VAT would be advantageous
Most importantly, you will bring a values‑driven, compassionate leadership style, with a commitment to collaboration and continuous improvement.
Our Values
At St Oswald’s Hospice our work is guided by values that shape everything we do:
- Safe and supportive
- Positive and can‑do
- Accountable and authentic
- Caring and compassionate
- Excellence and innovation
Studies have shown that women and people of the global majority are less likely to apply for jobs unless they meet every single qualification and requirement. Research also shows that many people with other protected characteristics also find it hard it much harder to gain employment. At St Oswald’s Hospice we are dedicated to building a diverse and inclusive workplace. So if you are excited by the role but your past experience doesn’t quite match every requirement we encourage you to apply anyway. You may be just the person we are looking for!
Please apply via CV to our retained consultancy Castle Peak Group.
If you would like a confidential discussion or view the full candidate pack, please email.
Head of Finance & Purchasing employer: St Oswald's Hospice
Contact Detail:
St Oswald's Hospice Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Finance & Purchasing
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the charity sector, especially those who might know someone at St Oswald’s Hospice. A friendly chat can open doors and give you insider info that could set you apart.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by diving deep into their values and mission. Show us how your experience aligns with their goals, especially around financial stewardship and compassionate leadership. It’s all about making that connection!
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t underestimate the power of follow-ups! After your interview, drop a thank-you email to express your appreciation. It keeps you on their radar and shows your enthusiasm for the role.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining the team at St Oswald’s Hospice and making a meaningful impact.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Finance & Purchasing
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV reflects the skills and experiences that align with the Head of Finance & Purchasing role. Highlight your financial reporting, budgeting, and team leadership experience to show us you’re the right fit!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Use your cover letter to tell us why you’re passionate about working at St Oswald’s Hospice. Share specific examples of how your values align with ours and how you can make a meaningful impact in this role.
Showcase Your Analytical Skills: Since strong analytical skills are key for this position, don’t forget to mention your experience with Excel and reporting tools like Power BI. We want to see how you’ve used these skills to drive decision-making in your past roles.
Be Authentic: We value authenticity, so let your personality shine through in your application. Don’t hesitate to share your leadership style and how you foster collaboration within teams. Remember, we’re looking for someone who fits our caring and compassionate culture!
How to prepare for a job interview at St Oswald's Hospice
✨Know Your Numbers
As a Head of Finance & Purchasing, you’ll need to demonstrate your financial acumen. Brush up on key financial metrics and reporting standards relevant to the charity sector. Be ready to discuss how you've used data to drive decisions in previous roles.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Style
This role requires a compassionate and collaborative leader. Prepare examples that highlight your experience in developing teams and fostering a positive work environment. Think about how you can convey your values-driven approach during the interview.
✨Understand the Organisation's Mission
St Oswald’s Hospice is all about making a meaningful impact. Familiarise yourself with their mission and values. Be prepared to discuss how your personal values align with theirs and how you can contribute to their goals.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect questions that assess your problem-solving skills and strategic thinking. Think of scenarios where you’ve had to navigate complex financial challenges or lead a team through change. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your responses.