Head of Finance
Location: Carlisle (with 1 optional WFH day)
Salary: Up to £45,150 FTE
Hours: 37.5 per week (30 hours considered)
Contract: Permanent
Benefits: 26 days holiday + bank holidays, 6% employer pension, birthday day off
 
The Role
A Head of Finance is required to lead and strengthen financial management across two entities. This senior leadership position will provide strategic financial insight, ensure strong financial governance, and oversee a high‑performing finance team. The role combines hands‑on financial control with forward‑looking planning, supporting long‑term sustainability and organisational growth.
 
Key Responsibilities
Strategic Leadership

• Shape long‑term financial strategy and support senior decision‑making.
• Provide financial insight and analysis to guide organisational priorities.
• Lead financial risk management and embed sustainability into financial modelling.

Financial Reporting & Compliance

• Oversee timely and accurate monthly management accounts.
• Lead statutory accounts and annual audit processes.
• Ensure compliance with relevant accounting standards, tax requirements, and regulatory obligations.
• Maintain fully reconciled balance sheet accounts with appropriate documentation.

Budgeting, Forecasting & Planning

• Lead the annual budget cycle, including consolidation and presentation.
• Manage quarterly reforecasting and variance analysis.
• Partner with budget holders to strengthen financial understanding and accountability.
• Lead financial planning and costing for projects and new initiatives.

Leadership & Team Development

• Manage and develop the Finance Manager.
• Oversee the wider finance team across multiple locations.
• Foster a high‑performance culture through coaching, objective setting, and skills development.
• Promote continuous improvement and strong communication within the finance function.

Operations & Controls

• Maintain and enhance financial controls and processes.
• Oversee accounts payable, receivable, payroll, bank reconciliations, and daily operations.
• Develop and optimise financial systems to support efficiency and growth.

External Relationships

• Liaise with auditors, banks, suppliers, and regulatory bodies.
• Represent finance at senior leadership and trustee board meetings when required.

Person Specification
Essential

• CIMA qualified (QBE considered with strong experience).
• Minimum 3 years’ experience in a senior finance role.
• Proven leadership experience managing staff and finance functions.
• Strong track record in improving financial processes and delivering strategic insight.
• Excellent communication and stakeholder engagement skills.
• Confident presenting to senior leaders and boards.
• Advanced Excel skills and experience with Sage 50.

Desirable

• Experience working across multiple entities or complex structures.
• Knowledge of charity accounting, regulations, and SORP.

Additional Information

• Flexibility is required as responsibilities may evolve with organisational needs.
• Appointment is subject to a satisfactory DBS check.