At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead financial operations and support decision-making in a values-driven charity.
- Company: A growing charity dedicated to supporting people facing homelessness in Milton Keynes.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, hybrid working, generous holiday, and employee discounts.
- Other info: Join a passionate team and help rebuild lives through financial stewardship.
- Why this job: Make a real difference while shaping financial processes in an ambitious charity.
- Qualifications: Experience in finance management, strong knowledge of Xero and Excel.
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
Please note: All direct or speculative applications to UnityMK will be forwarded to Debbie Burbage Recruitment as part of our exclusive partnership.
Senior Commercial Finance Manager in Milton Keynes employer: UnityMK
UnityMK is an exceptional employer, offering a unique opportunity to make a meaningful impact in the lives of those facing homelessness in Milton Keynes. With a strong commitment to values-driven work, we foster a supportive and collaborative culture that encourages professional growth and autonomy. Our flexible hybrid working model, competitive salary, and generous benefits package, including 25 days of holiday and a pension scheme, make us an attractive choice for finance professionals looking to contribute to a vital cause.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Commercial 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 their goals, and be ready to discuss how you can contribute beyond just the numbers.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your pitch! Be clear about your experience with Xero and Excel, and how you've managed budgets in the past. We want to hear specific examples that demonstrate your skills and proactive 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 our mission to support those facing homelessness.
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Commercial 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 Senior Commercial Finance Manager role. Highlight your finance management experience, especially with Xero and Excel, 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 Achievements:Don’t just list your responsibilities; share specific achievements that demonstrate your impact in previous roles. We love seeing how you've contributed beyond the numbers!
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 don’t miss out on any important updates from us!
How to prepare for a job interview at UnityMK
✨Know Your Numbers
As a Senior Commercial Finance Manager, you'll need to demonstrate your financial acumen. Brush up on key financial metrics and be ready to discuss how you've used them in past roles. Prepare examples of how you've managed budgets or improved financial processes.
✨Showcase Your Autonomy
This role requires someone who can work independently. Be prepared to share specific instances where you've taken initiative in your previous positions. Highlight projects where you led financial operations without much oversight.
✨Connect with the Charity's Mission
Since this is a charity role, it's crucial to align with their values. Research the organisation and be ready to discuss how your financial expertise can support their mission. Show genuine enthusiasm for helping people facing homelessness.
✨Prepare for Technical Questions
Expect questions about Xero and Excel, as these are essential tools for the job. Familiarise yourself with common functionalities and be ready to explain how you've used these platforms to enhance financial reporting and analysis in your previous roles.
