At a Glance
- Tasks: Provide insightful financial information and support budget holders in decision-making.
- Company: Join the Soil Association, a leading charity focused on health, environment, and animal welfare.
- Benefits: Enjoy 27 days holiday, pension scheme, volunteer days, and flexible working options.
- Other info: Work in a dynamic team passionate about making a difference in the community.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in charity finance while promoting sustainability and healthy living.
- Qualifications: Qualified finance professional with charity accounting experience and strong organisational skills.
The predicted salary is between 46000 - 49000 £ per year.
Location: Bristol based with hybrid working (40% office based)
Contract: Permanent
Hours of work: Full-time - 35 Hours per week, Mon-Fri
Salary: £46,000 - £49,000 pa
About our Organisation
The Soil Association, formed in 1946, is the only UK charity which works across the spectrum of human health, the environment and animal welfare. We campaign for change, we support farming innovation, we serve healthy food in communities, we support and grow the organic market, and we protect forests. We couldn't do any of this without our supporters, partners, donors and dedicated staff. We make a difference in the world where it’s needed the most.
About the Opportunity
This is a core role in the Soil Association’s Group Finance team, providing accurate, timely and insightful financial information to management and budget holders across the Soil Association Charity. You will be responsible for producing and analysing regular group management accounts, consolidating subsidiary accounts managed by other Finance Business Partners in the team and monitoring restricted fund reporting. Acting as a business partner you will support budget holders interpreting and understanding their monthly financial reports, enabling them to make the best decisions for the organisation. In addition you will work closely with the Group Financial Controller on the budget and forecasting processes as well as taking a significant role in supporting the year end audit process.
About You
We are looking for an experienced, qualified, charity finance professional to deliver deep insight into the organisation’s numbers. You will:
- Have several years post qualification experience in management accounting.
- Significant practical experience of working in charity accounting and working within the Charity SORP framework.
- Having worked as a business partner to non-financial stakeholders, helping them understand the complexities of charity accounting.
- Confidence to provide constructive feedback and challenge assumptions with budget holders.
- Prior experience of managing a small team and coaching junior team members.
- High attention to detail and accuracy.
- Strong organisational skills and a mindfulness for deadline delivery.
- An interest in process improvement and creating more efficient ways of working.
- Knowledge of Sage accounting platforms and Power BI beneficial.
- Willingness to attend office in central Bristol two days per week.
Please note that if you are successful in your application to the role any offer of employment will be subject to a satisfactory DBS check.
Our Benefits
We offer a range of financial and lifestyle benefits to all our employees, including:
- 27 days annual holiday increasing to 30 days with length of service plus bank holidays (pro rata for part time)
- Pension scheme with ethical investment options and employer contribution increasing with length of service
- Free membership of the Soil Association and discounts on organic produce
- Volunteer days to give back to the local community or support green initiatives
- Family friendly policies and flexible working
- Cycle to work scheme
- Sociable and engaging workplace of professionals that share a passion for healthy, sustainable lifestyle and produce
Finance Business Partner - Charity in Bristol employer: The Soil Association
The Soil Association provides a supportive and collaborative work environment, focusing on impactful initiatives in health and environmental sectors. Employees enjoy hybrid working arrangements and opportunities for professional development.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Finance Business Partner - Charity in Bristol
✨Tap into Campus Networks
If you're still in uni, don’t forget to engage with your campus's career services and attend finance-related events. Banks often do presentations and recruitment drives on campus, so put yourself out there and make use of these opportunities to show off your passion for the field.
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Consider pursuing relevant certifications like the CFA or ACCA while you’re job hunting. They not only beef up your CV but also connect you with professional bodies which can lead to networking opportunities and even job openings in banking and financial services.
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Join finance-focused groups on platforms like LinkedIn and engage in discussions. This can really help you stand out from the crowd, allowing potential employers to see your knowledge and interest in industry trends. Plus, you might stumble upon job postings shared exclusively within the group.
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We think you need these skills to ace Finance Business Partner - Charity in Bristol
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Numbers!:In the banking and financial services world, quantifiable achievements are key. Make sure your CV highlights your grades in relevant subjects, any financial certifications you hold, and specific projects where you've delivered measurable results. Employers love to see how your skills translate into real-world success.
Tailor Your Cover Letter to the Role:When applying for a full-time position, your cover letter should make a direct connection between your experience and the job description. Don't just state your enthusiasm for finance—dive into how your background in banking or financial analysis sets you apart. Let your passion shine through while being specific about what you can bring to The Soil Association.
Include Relevant Financial Software Experience:If you've worked with financial modelling tools or software like Excel, SAP, or specific analytical tools during your studies or internships, bring that up! Highlighting your proficiency can really make your application pop and show you're ready to hit the ground running in a full-time role.
Research and Reflect:Before hitting that 'apply' button on The Soil Association's website, do a little digging. Look up their recent projects, values, and culture. Reflecting their ethos in your application can make a huge difference and show you’re genuinely interested in being part of the team!
How to prepare for a job interview at The Soil Association
✨Brush Up on Financial Analysis Skills
Make sure you're well-versed in financial concepts and analytical techniques relevant to banking and financial services. Get comfortable with tools like Excel for modelling or financial forecasting, as technical questions in this area are common during interviews with The Soil Association.
✨Prepare for Case Studies
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✨Show Your Passion for Finance
Since this is a full-time position, employers at The Soil Association will be keen to see your genuine interest in finance. Be prepared to discuss recent industry trends or news articles that excite you, showcasing your enthusiasm and engagement with the field.
✨Network with Industry Professionals
Before your interview, reach out to current or former The Soil Association employees on platforms like LinkedIn. They'll offer unique insights into the company's culture and the interview process, which can give us a delightful edge in showcasing a good fit for the team.
