At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead financial management and support decision-making in a values-driven charity.
- Company: A growing charity dedicated to supporting those 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 effective financial stewardship.
- Why this job: Make a real difference while shaping financial processes in an ambitious charity.
- Qualifications: Experience in finance management, strong Xero and Excel skills, and charity sector knowledge.
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 Finance Manager - Financial Accounts 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, employees benefit from a supportive and collaborative culture, flexible hybrid working arrangements, and opportunities for professional growth within a dynamic charity environment. The role of Senior Finance Manager not only allows for autonomy and initiative but also plays a crucial part in shaping the financial future of the organisation, ensuring that vital services can continue to thrive.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Finance Manager - Financial Accounts 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 brushing up on your knowledge of financial regulations and charity operations. We want you to be able to showcase how your skills can directly impact the organisation’s mission.
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t underestimate the power of follow-ups! After an interview, drop a quick thank-you email to express your appreciation and reiterate your enthusiasm for the role. It keeps you fresh in their minds!
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. 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 Finance Manager - Financial Accounts in Milton Keynes
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV reflects the skills and experiences that match the Senior 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 finance expertise can help our charity grow sustainably.
Showcase Your Autonomy:Since this role requires someone who enjoys working independently, share examples of when you've taken initiative in previous roles. We want to see how you can manage finances without constant oversight!
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 this exciting opportunity to make a difference.
How to prepare for a job interview at UnityMK
✨Know Your Numbers
Make sure you’re well-versed in the financial aspects of the role. Brush up on your knowledge of Xero and Excel, as well as any relevant financial regulations. Being able to discuss your experience with managing budgets and preparing accounts will show that you’re ready to take ownership of the financial operations.
✨Showcase Your Charitable Spirit
Since this role is within a charity, it’s crucial to demonstrate your passion for supporting people facing homelessness. Be prepared to share examples of how your values align with the organisation's mission and how you can contribute beyond just the numbers.
✨Prepare Insightful Questions
Think about what you want to know regarding the charity’s financial strategies and future plans. Asking insightful questions not only shows your interest but also helps you gauge if the organisation is the right fit for you. Consider asking about their approach to financial modelling and how they measure success.
✨Practice Your Presentation Skills
As you’ll be attending Board meetings to present financial updates, practice articulating complex financial information clearly and concisely. You might even want to prepare a mock presentation to get comfortable with explaining financial insights in a way that everyone can understand.
