At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the finance function, manage accounting systems, and produce financial statements.
- Company: Join the Diocese of Southwark, a vibrant and diverse community.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, supportive team environment, and meaningful work in charity.
- Other info: Dynamic role with opportunities for personal and professional growth.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in a large charity while working with a collaborative team.
- Qualifications: Qualified accountant with charity accounting experience and strong software skills.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 75000 £ per year.
This is an opportunity for a senior role within the Finance Department of the Diocese of Southwark.
The role involves the statutory and management accounting of a large Diocese, with around 300 parishes and clergy, £30m turnover and £300m balance sheet.
You will work closely with the Director of Finance accounting for a major charity and supporting a wide range of parishes.
Post Introduction
In conjunction with the Director of Finance you will manage the efficient operation of the finance function though management and statutory accounting, internal control and cash management.
You will manage the accounting system covering processes for nominal ledger, purchase and sales ledger, stipends and payroll.
Through the work of the department you will contribute to the effective stewardship of resources and the transparent accountability that is the hallmark of the Diocese of Southwark.
Main Responsibilities
Working alongside the Director of Finance you will produce the annual financial statements and work with him on managing the annual audit process.
You will produce monthly management accounts on a timely basis as key financial information for the efficient management of the Diocese and for the information of Trustees.
The Diocese uses XLedger and you will become the primary contact and knowledge base for the system, developing its reporting and functionality.
You will be responsible for the financial systems and processes of the finance department, and manage part of the finance team.
You will oversee the team members responsible for payroll, stipends, purchase ledger and banking.
You will work with a wide range of people throughout the organisation, and have key relationships with those working on generous giving and vocations.
The Ideal Candidate
You must be a qualified accountant.
We are looking for someone is a qualified accountant, with charity accounting experience, and:
- a high degree of ability with accounting software packages, managing data flows into and out of such systems.
- experience of staff management and supervision, and who also enjoys building relationships outside the finance team.
- You Will Be Someone Who
- is most comfortable and productive working as part of an open and collaborative team.
- responds quickly to changing priorities, and can manage these while maintaining adherence to the deadlines that financial reporting cycles demand.
- has an affinity with the aims and values of the Church of England.
About Us
Southwark is a diverse and vibrant Diocese in so many ways, from the energy of the inner city to the beauty of the Surrey Hills.
We are one of the largest Dioceses in the Church of England, serving the people of South London and East Surrey.
We take joy in the distinctiveness and variety of God’s gifts and people.
You will find churches that offer welcome, care and dignity in Christ’s name to their parishes; chaplains walking along side those in education, hospitals, and prison; and pioneering communities seeking to reach out and serve in new ways.
We seek to be Christ-centred and outward-focused in all we do.
Applications will close on Friday 7th August 2026. Interviews will be held in the week commencing 17th August 2026.
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Head of Finance employer: The Church of England
The Church of England in Liverpool is an exceptional employer, offering a supportive and collaborative work environment that values diversity and inclusivity. Employees benefit from opportunities for professional growth through diocesan training courses and the chance to make a meaningful impact within the community. With a strong commitment to nurturing vocations, this role provides a unique opportunity to engage with various church traditions and contribute to the spiritual development of lay ministry.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Finance
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We think you need these skills to ace Head of Finance
Some tips for your application 🫡
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How to prepare for a job interview at The Church of England
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