At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead financial operations and provide insights to support decision-making in a charity.
- Company: Values-driven charity dedicated to supporting people facing homelessness in Milton Keynes.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, hybrid working, generous holiday, and employee discount scheme.
- Other info: Join a passionate team and help rebuild lives through effective financial stewardship.
- Why this job: Make a real difference while shaping financial processes in a growing charity.
- Qualifications: Experience in finance management, strong knowledge of Xero and Excel, and charity sector experience preferred.
The predicted salary is between 35500 - 38000 € per year.
This is a unique opportunity to play a pivotal role in a growing, values-driven charity supporting people facing and experiencing homelessness in Milton Keynes. Reporting directly to the CEO, you will take full ownership of our financial operations, ensuring strong financial stewardship while helping shape the organisation’s future. This is a standalone, hands-on role suited to someone who enjoys working autonomously, taking initiative, and contributing beyond the numbers. Your work will directly enable us to deliver vital services, respond to need, and grow sustainably.
About the role
You will lead all aspects of financial management, providing clear insight and robust systems to support decision-making across the charity. From day-to-day operations to strategic planning, you’ll be a trusted partner to the CEO and wider team. Key responsibilities include:
- Managing day-to-day finances, including cashflow, banking, payments, and reporting (Xero)
- Preparing monthly management accounts, forecasts, and budget analysis with clear, meaningful commentary
- Leading the annual budgeting process and supporting budget holders
- Managing payroll, pensions, and HMRC submissions
- Preparing year-end accounts and liaising with auditors/independent examiners
- Supporting fundraising through financial modelling and funder reporting
- Ensuring compliance with charity and company financial regulations
- Overseeing insurance, licences, and financial governance requirements
- Submitting Gift Aid claims and maintaining the fixed asset register
- Attending Board meetings to present financial updates and provide insight
This role offers the chance to strengthen and shape financial processes within an ambitious and evolving charity.
About you
You’ll be an experienced and confident finance professional who is comfortable working independently and communicating with colleagues at all levels. You will bring:
- Proven experience in a Finance Manager (or similar) role
- Strong working knowledge of Xero and Excel
- Experience preparing accounts for audit and managing budgets
- Ideally, experience within a charity or not-for-profit setting
- The ability to translate financial information into clear, practical insight
- A proactive, solutions-focused approach and excellent organisational skills
Above all, you’ll share our values and be motivated by the opportunity to support people to rebuild their lives.
What we offer
- Salary: £35,500 – £38,000 pro-rata (depending on experience)
- Hours: 20 hours per week (hybrid working)
- Holiday: 25 days plus statutory days (pro-rata)
- Additional benefits: Pension, on-site parking, employee discount scheme
Finance Manager in Milton Keynes employer: UnityMK
UnityMK is an exceptional employer that prioritises values-driven work and offers a supportive environment for its employees. As a Finance Manager, you will not only manage financial operations but also play a crucial role in shaping the future of a charity dedicated to helping those experiencing homelessness in Milton Keynes. With a commitment to employee growth, hybrid working options, and a strong focus on community impact, UnityMK provides a fulfilling workplace where your contributions truly matter.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Finance Manager in Milton Keynes
✨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 job openings or even a referral.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the charity's mission and values. Show us how your financial expertise aligns with our goals. We love candidates who are passionate about making a difference!
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your pitch! Be ready to explain how your skills in Xero and Excel can help us manage our finances better. We want to hear how you can contribute beyond just crunching numbers.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we’re always on the lookout for candidates who share our values and vision.
We think you need these skills to ace Finance Manager in Milton Keynes
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV reflects the skills and experiences that match the Finance Manager role. Highlight your experience with Xero, budgeting, and financial reporting to show us you’re the right fit!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to tell us why you're passionate about supporting people facing homelessness and how your financial expertise can help our charity grow sustainably.
Showcase Your Values:We’re all about values here at StudySmarter. Make sure to express how your personal values align with our mission to support those in need. We want to see your commitment to making a difference!
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity.
How to prepare for a job interview at UnityMK
✨Know Your Numbers
Make sure you’re well-versed in the financial details of your previous roles. Be ready to discuss specific examples of how you've managed budgets, prepared accounts, and provided insights that influenced decision-making. This will show your potential employer that you can handle the financial operations of their charity with confidence.
✨Familiarise Yourself with Xero
Since the role requires strong knowledge of Xero, take some time to brush up on your skills with this software. If possible, practice using it to prepare mock reports or accounts. Being able to demonstrate your proficiency during the interview will set you apart from other candidates.
✨Align with Their Values
This charity is values-driven, so make sure you understand their mission and how your personal values align with theirs. Be prepared to discuss why you’re passionate about supporting people facing homelessness and how you can contribute to their goals beyond just the numbers.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect questions that ask how you would handle specific financial challenges or scenarios relevant to the charity sector. Think through examples from your past experience where you’ve successfully navigated similar situations, and be ready to share these stories to illustrate your problem-solving skills.
