Head of Finance & Administration (Hybrid)

Heidi Wright Recruitment; Keswick; Hybrid; GBP 45,000 - 50,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading charity organization based in Keswick is seeking a Head of Finance & Administration. In this role, you will lead financial strategy, governance, and operational oversight. You will act as Company Secretary and provide key financial advice to senior leadership. The ideal candidate will have significant experience in financial management, compliance, and leadership. This is a permanent position offering a salary of £45,000 - £50,000 with hybrid working options.

Benefits

31 days' annual leave including public holidays

Flexible working approach

Opportunity to work in a purpose-led organization

Qualifications

• Strong experience in financial management, reporting, and audit.
• Ability to support governance processes as Company Secretary.
• Experience overseeing administrative and IT systems.

Responsibilities

• Lead budgeting, cash flow forecasting, and long-term financial planning.
• Prepare quarterly management accounts with clear analysis.
• Provide financial advice to senior leadership and Trustees.
• Act as Company Secretary for the charity and its subsidiaries.
• Ensure compliance with VAT and other tax obligations.

Skills

Financial management

Audit experience

Analytical skills

Leadership

Organizational skills

Education

Qualified accountant (ACA, ACCA, CIMA) or equivalent experience

Tools

Xero accounting software

Job description

The Role

As Head of Finance & Administration, you will be a key member of the Senior Management Team, providing financial leadership, governance expertise, and operational oversight across the organisation and its subsidiaries.

You will lead on financial strategy, reporting, budgeting and risk management, act as Company Secretary, and oversee administrative and IT systems. Working closely with the Executive Team and Trustees, you will support long-term sustainability and organisational growth.

Key Responsibilities

Financial Leadership

• Lead budgeting, cashflow forecasting and long-term financial planning
• Prepare quarterly management accounts with clear analysis and insight
• Provide financial advice and recommendations to senior leadership and Trustees
• Oversee payroll via an external provider
• Maximise sector Tax Relief and other available tax incentives
• Maintain robust financial controls, systems and risk mitigation
• Support funding applications and ensure compliance with funder reporting

Governance & Compliance

• Act as Company Secretary for the charity and its subsidiaries
• Lead the annual audit and preparation of statutory accounts (Charity SORP & Companies Act)
• Attend Board and Finance Committee meetings, providing clear financial reporting
• Ensure compliance with VAT, Gift Aid and other tax obligations

Administration & IT

• Oversee office systems and administrative processes
• Manage IT support contracts, purchasing plans and replacement schedules

Leadership

• Act as an active member of the Senior Management Team
• Line manage finance and administration staff, supporting development and performance

About You

Essential

• Qualified accountant (ACA, ACCA, CIMA) or equivalent experience
• Strong experience in financial management, reporting and audit
• Excellent organisational, analytical and leadership skillsAbility to act as Company Secretary and support governance processes
• Experience overseeing administrative and IT systems

Desirable

• Experience within the arts, charity or not-for-profit sector
• Knowledge of Charity SORP and charitable governance
• Experience using Xero accounting software

Terms & Benefits

• Salary: £45,000 - £50,000 depending on experience
• Permanent role (4 or 5 days per week considered)
• 40 hours per week with flexible working approach
• Hybrid working (min 3 days office-based in Keswick)
• 31 days' annual leave including public holidays
• Opportunity to work in a purpose-led organisation with national reach

How to Apply

To apply, please submit a CV and a covering letter or email explaining your interest in the role.

Closing date: 12 January 2026

Interview process:

• Initial online interview - 19 January 2026
• In-person interview in Keswick - 2 February 2026