At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead financial strategy and support impactful environmental initiatives.
- Company: Earth Trust, a dynamic environmental charity in Oxfordshire.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, flexible working, and the chance to make a difference.
- Other info: Join a collaborative team focused on environmental and social impact.
- Why this job: Shape the future of an organisation dedicated to connecting people with nature.
- Qualifications: Qualified accountant with senior finance leadership experience, preferably in a charity.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 80000 £ per year.
Earth Trust is looking for a Finance Director to help shape the next stage of our development as a place-based environmental charity with growing ambition, increasing complexity and a powerful mission. Based at Wittenham Clumps in Oxfordshire, Earth Trust cares for farmland, woodland, meadows, wetlands and community reserves, connecting people with nature and demonstrating how people and the natural world can thrive together.
Our work brings together public engagement, learning, nature-friendly farming, partnerships and commercial activity in support of our charitable purpose. This is a pivotal moment for the organisation. Alongside our established charitable work, we are delivering Gateway to Nature — a major programme to improve access, enhance the visitor experience and support growth in sustainable earned income.
We need a Finance Director who can ensure this ambition is underpinned by clear, robust and commercially sound financial thinking. As a member of the Executive Leadership Team, you will work closely with the Chief Executive, senior colleagues and Trustees to shape organisational direction, strengthen financial planning and ensure resources are aligned with impact.
You will provide strategic financial insight, constructive challenge and practical support across the organisation. You will lead budgeting, forecasting, management accounts, statutory reporting, audit, financial governance, risk, reserves and controls. You will also support business cases, financial models, capital project oversight, trading activity and commercial decision-making.
We are looking for a qualified accountant with significant senior finance leadership experience, ideally gained in a charity or similarly complex organisation. You will bring strong technical finance skills, sound judgement, commercial awareness and the ability to communicate clearly with non-finance colleagues. Just as importantly, you will be collaborative, values-led and motivated by the opportunity to use finance as an enabler of environmental and social impact.
This role will suit someone who combines strategic leadership with a practical, hands-on approach, and who enjoys helping colleagues build financial confidence, accountability and discipline.
Finance Director in Abingdon employer: The Training Brokers Ltd
Earth Trust is an exceptional employer, offering a unique opportunity to contribute to meaningful environmental initiatives while working in the picturesque setting of Wittenham Clumps, Oxfordshire. Our collaborative work culture fosters personal and professional growth, with ample opportunities for employees to engage in impactful projects that connect communities with nature. Join us to be part of a passionate team dedicated to making a difference, where your financial expertise will directly support our mission and enhance the visitor experience.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Finance Director in Abingdon
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the environmental charity sector, especially those connected to Earth Trust. Attend events, join online forums, and don’t be shy about asking for informational interviews. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings!
✨Tip Number 2
Show your passion for the mission! When you get the chance to chat with potential employers, make sure to express your enthusiasm for connecting people with nature and supporting sustainable practices. This will help you stand out as someone who truly aligns with their values.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by brushing up on your financial acumen and understanding of the charity sector. Be ready to discuss how your experience can help Earth Trust achieve its goals. Use real examples to demonstrate your strategic thinking and hands-on approach.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you’re genuinely interested in being part of the Earth Trust team. Let’s make this happen together!
We think you need these skills to ace Finance Director in Abingdon
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV reflects the skills and experiences that align with the Finance Director role. Highlight your senior finance leadership experience and any relevant work in charities or complex organisations. We want to see how you can bring your unique flair to our mission!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're passionate about Earth Trust's mission and how your financial expertise can help us achieve our goals. Be genuine and let your personality come through – we love a good story!
Showcase Your Collaborative Spirit:In your application, emphasise your ability to work with non-finance colleagues and support them in building financial confidence. We’re looking for someone who can communicate complex financial concepts clearly, so don’t shy away from sharing examples of your collaborative successes.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it gives you a chance to explore more about our values and what we stand for!
How to prepare for a job interview at The Training Brokers Ltd
✨Know Your Numbers
As a Finance Director, you'll need to demonstrate your financial acumen. Brush up on key financial metrics relevant to Earth Trust's mission and be ready to discuss how you can apply these in a charity context. Show them you understand the balance between financial sustainability and environmental impact.
✨Align with Their Mission
Earth Trust is all about connecting people with nature. Make sure you articulate how your values align with their mission. Share examples from your past experiences where you've used finance to drive social or environmental change, showing that you're not just about the numbers.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect questions that assess your strategic thinking and problem-solving skills. Prepare for scenarios related to budgeting, forecasting, and risk management. Think of specific examples where you've successfully navigated complex financial challenges and be ready to explain your thought process.
✨Showcase Your Collaborative Spirit
This role requires working closely with non-finance colleagues. Be prepared to discuss how you've fostered collaboration in previous roles. Highlight instances where you've helped others build financial confidence and accountability, demonstrating your ability to communicate complex concepts in an accessible way.
