Director of Finance, Essex Waterways Navigation Trust

Business & Human Rights Resource Centre; Chelmsford; On-site; GBP 125,000 - 150,000; Part time

Job summary

A not-for-profit waterways management organization seeks a Director of Finance to oversee financial sustainability and compliance. The role involves developing financial strategies, managing budgets, and ensuring effective financial reporting. Ideal candidates should be qualified accountants with experience in financial management within not-for-profit sectors. This voluntary position offers an impactful opportunity to contribute to the preservation of Essex’s waterways.

Benefits

Unique environmental opportunity

Experience with community impact

Qualifications

• Proven experience in a senior financial management role within a not-for-profit.
• Strong background in financial planning and budgeting.
• Experience managing diverse income streams including grants and donations.

Responsibilities

• Oversee financial management and ensure sustainability of the Navigation.
• Develop and implement financial strategies and comply with regulations.
• Present financial reports at Board meetings and support fundraising.

Skills

Financial modelling

Forecasting

Analytical skills

Leadership

Communication

Education

Qualified accountant (ACA, ACCA, CIMA)

Tools

Financial software

Job description

Job Title: Director of Finance

Company: Essex Waterways Navigation Trust

Location: Chelmer and Blackwater Navigation, Essex

Salary: N/A

Contract Type: Full-time, Voluntary

Reports to: Chairman of the Board of Directors

About Essex Waterways Navigation Trust

Essex Waterways Navigation Trust is a not-for-profit organisation responsible for managing and maintaining the Chelmer and Blackwater Navigation. Spanning 13.8 miles and comprising 13 locks, the Navigation is a vital part of Essex’s waterways, offering mooring facilities, navigation licenses, recreational activities, and conservation initiatives.

Job Purpose

The Director of Finance will be responsible for overseeing the financial management of Essex Waterways Navigation Trust, ensuring financial sustainability and compliance. They will develop financial strategies, interpret and monitor budgets, and expenditure, and if necessary, produce clear financial reports to support strategic decision-making. This role is crucial in securing funding, maintaining financial stability, and ensuring that the Navigation operates effectively within its financial constraints.

Key Responsibilities

Financial Strategy & Management

• Develop and implement financial strategies to support the long-term sustainability of the Navigation.

• Oversee all aspects of financial planning, forecasting, and budgeting.

• Ensure compliance with financial regulations, company policies, and best practices for not-for-profit organisations.

Budgeting & Reporting

• Oversee annual budgets.

• Interpret financial reports, including income and expenditure analysis, cash flow forecasts, and variance reports.

• Monitor financial performance and provide recommendations for cost-saving or revenue-enhancing initiatives.

• Assist in financial decision-making regarding capital investments, operational expenditure, and grant applications.

Income & Expenditure Oversight

• Manage and oversee income streams, including moorings, navigation licenses, water abstraction agreements, and commercial activities.

• Ensure proper financial control over staff salaries, operational costs, and capital projects.

• Support grant applications by providing financial data and ensuring compliance with funding requirements.

Operational & Compliance Responsibilities

• Oversee payroll, pensions, and staff benefits in compliance with relevant employment and tax regulations.

• Ensure financial records and systems are maintained accurately and efficiently.

• Lead financial risk assessments and implement mitigation strategies.

• Liaise with auditors, ensuring timely and compliant financial audits.

Stakeholder & Board Engagement

• Provide financial insights to assist the General Manager and Board in strategic planning.

• Present financial reports and recommendations at Board meetings.

• Support fundraising and grant applications by providing financial projections and reports.

• Collaborate with operational teams to align financial planning with business needs.

Person Specification

Essential Criteria

Qualifications & Experience

• Qualified accountant (ACA, ACCA, CIMA, or equivalent).

• Proven experience in a senior financial management role, ideally within a not-for-profit or public sector organisation.

• Strong background in financial planning, budgeting, and strategic financial management.

• Experience managing diverse income streams, including commercial revenue, grants, and donations.

Skills & Competencies

• Excellent financial modelling, forecasting, and reporting skills.

• Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities.

• Ability to communicate financial information clearly to non-financial stakeholders.

• Strong leadership and team management skills.

• High level of integrity and commitment to financial transparency.

Knowledge

• Understanding of financial regulations and compliance for not-for-profit organisations.

• Awareness of funding and grant application processes.

• Knowledge of operational costs associated with infrastructure maintenance and public services.

Desirable Criteria

• Experience working within an environmental, heritage, or waterways-related organisation.

• Knowledge of payroll systems and pension scheme administration.

• Familiarity with financial software and digital accounting systems.

This is a fantastic voluntary opportunity for a financial professional who wants to apply their expertise in a unique, environmentally significant organisation. If you are passionate about financial management and supporting the future of Essex’s waterways, we encourage you to apply.