Finance & Operations Lead — Four‑Day Week, Hybrid

CLES; Manchester; Hybrid; GBP 50,000 - 54,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Four-day week (30 hours)

Hybrid working

Generous holiday entitlement 20–24, +1

Pension scheme

Professional development budget

Job summary

CLES, a Manchester-based think tank and charity, is seeking a proactive Head of Finance and Operations to steer financial governance and HR processes. The role works closely with senior management with a Finance and Office Administrator support, enabling strategic oversight and hands-on delivery.

The position offers a four-day full-pay week (30 hours), hybrid working with regular office attendance, and a suite of benefits including generous holiday and a pension scheme.

Qualifications

• Recognised accounting qualification (ACA/ACCA/CIMA) or AAT Level 4.
• Substantial senior-level charity finance experience.
• Experience in financial management including management accounts and VAT/payroll processes.
• Strong governance/compliance knowledge within a charity context, plus HR administration experience.
• Excellent organisational and proactive problem-solving skills.
• Proven ability to communicate with diverse stakeholders.

Responsibilities

• Manage day-to-day finances including cash flow, controls, and bookkeeping oversight.
• Prepare quarterly and annual management accounts, VAT returns, and payroll submissions.
• Oversee governance administration with the board on compliance and filings.
• Administer daily office operations, IT infrastructure, and health and safety.
• Lead HR processes such as recruitment, onboarding, and employee records.

Skills

Charity finance

Governance

HR administration

Stakeholder communication

Education

Professional accounting qualification (ACA/ACCA/CIMA) or AAT Level 4

Tools

Sage

Job description

CLES, a Manchester-based think tank and charity, is seeking a proactive Head of Finance and Operations to steer financial governance and HR processes. The role works closely with senior management with a Finance and Office Administrator support, enabling strategic oversight and hands-on delivery.

The position offers a four-day full-pay week (30 hours), hybrid working with regular office attendance, and a suite of benefits including generous holiday and a pension scheme.