Charity Finance & Governance Lead

Action Together; Manchester; Hybrid; GBP 60,000 - 90,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Flexible working

Wellbeing support

Carers leave

Professional development

Volunteering leave

Active travel incentives

Job summary

Manchester Community Central is seeking a senior finance professional to lead financial strategy, reporting and governance. You will oversee budgeting, HR integration, payroll and compliance, ensuring integrity and accessibility of financial information for managers and trustees.

The role requires a strong charity finance background with experience in restricted funds and SORP, plus the ability to translate complex data into clear guidance for non-finance staff.

Qualifications

• Strong financial background with charity sector experience, including restricted funds and Charity SORP.
• Ability to translate complex financial data into clear advice for non-finance managers and trustees.
• Experience overseeing HR and payroll processes within a values-led organisation.

Responsibilities

• Financial Strategy & Sustainability – work with Treasurer, Finance Subgroup and Board on strategy, reserves, and long-term planning.
• Reporting & Accountability – produce timely management accounts, forecasts and board reports for Trustees and funders.
• Statutory Compliance – lead annual accounts to Charity SORP, oversee audits and regulatory returns.
• Financial Planning & Control – lead budget-setting, monitor cash flow and maintain controls.
• Financial Operations – oversee payroll, payments, bank reconciliations and tax compliance.
• Management Support – support managers on budgeting and compliance with equity in practice.
• HR – ensure HR systems and records comply with employment law.
• Systems & Continuous Improvement – design efficient systems to reduce admin burden.
• Risk & Governance – contribute to risk management and appropriate safeguards.

Skills

Financial management

Strategic planning

Budgets & forecasting

Accounting principles

Board communication

Education

Qualified or part-qualified accountant

Tools

Payroll systems

Accounting software

Job description

Manchester Community Central is seeking a senior finance professional to lead financial strategy, reporting and governance. You will oversee budgeting, HR integration, payroll and compliance, ensuring integrity and accessibility of financial information for managers and trustees.

The role requires a strong charity finance background with experience in restricted funds and SORP, plus the ability to translate complex data into clear guidance for non-finance staff.