At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead financial operations and ensure accuracy in managing resources for a global charity.
- Company: Join World Vision UK, a leading charity dedicated to supporting vulnerable children worldwide.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, generous holiday allowance, and a strong pension contribution.
- Other info: Hybrid working model with opportunities for professional growth and development.
- Why this job: Make a real difference while driving financial integrity and operational excellence.
- Qualifications: Qualified Accountant with experience in charity finance management and team leadership.
The predicted salary is between 70000 - 70000 £ per year.
Goodman Masson are delighted to be partnered with World Vision UK to recruit for a high-calibre Head of Finance to drive their financial integrity and operational excellence. Reporting directly to the CFO and serving as a key member of the Extended Leadership Team, you will ensure resources are managed with unwavering accuracy, insight, and stewardship to support vulnerable children worldwide. You will lead core operations from transaction processing and monthly accounts to treasury, tax compliance, and statutory reporting. You will be a critical partner to the Head of Business Intelligence and leaders across Fundraising and Programmes, embedding clear policies and modern processes that amplify World Vision UK's mission impact.
Key Responsibilities
- Financial Control & Reporting: Oversee the production of high-quality monthly management accounts and deliver statutory annual accounts under Charities SORP (FRS 102).
- Modernisation & Innovation: Act as the Finance Systems owner and define a multi-year modernisation roadmap, embedding automation, AI for efficiency, and controls-by-design.
- Strategic Leadership: Lead and develop a diverse team of 12 (5 direct reports), fostering a service-oriented business partnering culture.
- Budgeting & Fund Management: Lead the annual budgeting cycle and oversee the management of cash, remittances, and foreign currency hedges.
- Governance & Risk: Ensure full compliance with UK law and Charity Commission standards, acting as the primary lead for external audit and banking relationships.
About You
You are an outcome-focused leader who balances strategic vision with operational rigour. You possess a continuous-improvement mindset and the ability to influence senior stakeholders with commercially aware recommendations.
Essential Requirements
- Qualified Accountant: ACA, ACCA, or CIMA qualified with significant post-qualification experience in industry.
- Sector Expertise: Proven experience in a finance management position within the Charity sector, including the management of restricted and unrestricted funds.
- Leadership Track Record: Experience leading multi-function teams with a focus on capability building and performance management.
- Technical Proficiency: Deep understanding of internal controls, technical accounting, and large-scale budgeting processes.
- Communication: Excellent verbal and written skills, with the ability to present decision-ready papers to Board committees.
- Occupational Requirement: Given the leadership nature of this role and its responsibility for the spiritual nurturing of staff, there is an occupational requirement for the post holder to have an active Christian faith.
Desired Skills
Familiarity with Microsoft Business Central, Power BI, SAP Concur, Jedox, and Blackline.
Salary: Circa £70,000 per annum
Key Benefits: 7% employer pension contribution and 28 days holiday + bank holidays
Location: Hybrid: 2 days from Milton Keynes office
Application Timelines
- Application Deadline: Friday 15th May
- 1st stage Online Interviews: W/C 18th May
- Final in person Interviews: W/C 1st June
Head of Finance. Job in Milton Keynes LilyLifestyle Jobs employer: United Cerebral Palsy of Georgia
World Vision UK is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work culture that prioritises financial integrity and operational excellence while making a meaningful impact on vulnerable children worldwide. With a strong commitment to employee growth, the organisation provides opportunities for professional development and innovation, alongside competitive benefits such as a 7% employer pension contribution and generous holiday allowance. Located in Milton Keynes, the hybrid working model fosters flexibility, allowing employees to balance their professional and personal lives effectively.
Contact Details:
United Cerebral Palsy of Georgia Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Finance. Job in Milton Keynes LilyLifestyle Jobs
✨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 the role and even a referral.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by researching World Vision UK thoroughly. Understand their mission and values, and think about how your experience aligns with their goals. This will help you stand out as a candidate who truly gets what they’re about.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your leadership skills during the interview. Be ready to share examples of how you've led teams and driven financial excellence in previous roles. We want to see that you can inspire and manage a diverse team effectively.
✨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 serious about joining the team at World Vision UK.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Finance. Job in Milton Keynes LilyLifestyle Jobs
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the Head of Finance role. Highlight your experience in financial control, reporting, and leadership in the charity sector. We want to see how your skills align with what World Vision UK is looking for!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're the perfect fit for this role. Share your passion for financial integrity and operational excellence, and don’t forget to mention your active Christian faith as it's an occupational requirement.
Showcase Your Achievements:When detailing your experience, focus on specific achievements that demonstrate your ability to lead teams and manage finances effectively. We love numbers, so if you can quantify your successes, even better!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother application process. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves. Don’t miss out on this opportunity!
How to prepare for a job interview at United Cerebral Palsy of Georgia
✨Know Your Numbers
As a Head of Finance, you’ll need to demonstrate your financial acumen. Brush up on key financial metrics and be ready to discuss how you've managed budgets and reporting in previous roles. Prepare examples that showcase your ability to drive financial integrity and operational excellence.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Style
This role involves leading a diverse team, so be prepared to talk about your leadership approach. Think of specific instances where you’ve fostered a service-oriented culture or improved team performance. Highlight your experience in capability building and how you’ve influenced senior stakeholders.
✨Understand the Charity Sector
Since this position is within the charity sector, it’s crucial to understand its unique challenges. Familiarise yourself with the Charities SORP (FRS 102) and be ready to discuss your experience managing restricted and unrestricted funds. This will show your commitment to World Vision UK's mission.
✨Prepare for Technical Questions
Expect questions about internal controls, technical accounting, and budgeting processes. Review your knowledge of finance systems like Microsoft Business Central and Power BI, as these tools are relevant to the role. Being technically proficient will set you apart from other candidates.
