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, 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 unique opportunity to lead financial operations that directly impact vulnerable children worldwide. With a strong commitment to employee growth, a collaborative work culture, and a generous benefits package including a 7% employer pension contribution and 28 days of holiday, this role in Milton Keynes provides a meaningful career path for those looking to make a difference while enjoying a supportive and innovative environment.
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 skills can directly contribute to their goals. This will show you’re genuinely interested!
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your answers to common interview questions, but don’t sound rehearsed. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your responses, especially when discussing your leadership experience.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to follow up after your interview! A quick thank-you email reiterating your enthusiasm for the role can leave a lasting impression. And remember, apply through our website for the best chance!
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 within the charity sector. We want to see how your skills align with the job description!
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 specific examples of your achievements in finance management and how they relate to World Vision UK's mission.
Showcase Your Leadership Skills:Since this role involves leading a diverse team, make sure to highlight your leadership experience. Talk about how you've built teams and fostered a service-oriented culture in your previous roles. We love to see strong leaders!
Apply Through Our Website:Don't forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it makes the process smoother for everyone involved.
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 financial reporting in previous roles. This will show your potential employer that you can handle the financial integrity they’re looking for.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Style
You’ll be leading a diverse team, so it’s crucial to articulate your leadership approach. Prepare examples of how you’ve built teams and fostered a service-oriented culture. Highlighting your experience in capability building will resonate well with the interviewers.
✨Understand the Charity Sector
Since this role is within the charity sector, make sure you’re familiar with the specific challenges and regulations that come with it. Be prepared to discuss your experience managing restricted and unrestricted funds, as this will be a key part of the conversation.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect scenario-based questions that assess your problem-solving skills and strategic thinking. Think about past situations where you had to influence senior stakeholders or implement modernisation initiatives. Having clear, structured responses will help you stand out.
