Interim Head of Finance

Active Pathways; Chorley; On-site; GBP 70,000; Part time

Job summary

Active Pathways seeks an Interim Head of Finance to lead their finance team in Chorley. This part-time position requires a seasoned professional to oversee financial operations, ensure compliance, and drive improvements in a values-driven organization. Excellent development opportunities available.

Benefits

35 days annual leave including bank holidays

Health Cash Plan

Company Sick Pay

Refer a Friend scheme

Qualifications

• Professional accounting qualification (ACA, ACCA, CIMA) required.
• Proven senior finance management experience, preferably in care or health sectors.
• Experience managing multi-entity finance functions and KPIs.

Responsibilities

• Lead preparation and review of management accounts for multiple profit and loss centres.
• Manage cash flow forecasting and working capital.
• Oversee audit processes and ensure compliance with regulations.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Stakeholder Management

Commercial Acumen

Education

ACA, ACCA, CIMA

Tools

MS Excel

Xero

Job description

Interim Head of Finance / Financial Controller

Location: Active Pathways & Evermore Care Homes Central Office (Chorley)

Contract: Contract (3 to 6 months), Part-Time (22-30 hours/week)

Hours: 9:00 am - 5:30 pm / 37.5 hours/week

Salary: c£70,000 pro-rata (based on experience)

We are seeking an experienced and motivated Interim Head of Finance / Financial Controller to lead our small internal finance team at Active Pathways. This part-time role (3-4 days/week for 3 to 6 months) reports directly to the Managing Director and is part of our senior leadership team during a growth phase.

Why Join Active Pathways?

With over 20 years of experience in Lancashire and Yorkshire, Active Pathways is dedicated to delivering recovery-focused mental health and rehabilitation services for adults aged 18+. Guided by our values of Passion, Safety, and Quality, we offer excellent development opportunities and a people-first culture.

About the Role:

As Interim Head of Finance, you will oversee the finance function, leading the Assistant Accountant and Finance Assistant. Your responsibilities include ensuring financial stewardship, operational efficiency, and compliance across our care homes and mental health services. You will produce management accounts, coordinate audits, forecast cash flow, and report to senior stakeholders. Additionally, you will drive process improvements, digital initiatives, and support the financial strategy as we recruit a permanent Finance Director.

Responsibilities:

1. Lead preparation and review of management accounts for multiple profit and loss centres
2. Oversee audit processes and ensure compliance with regulations and standards
3. Manage cash flow forecasting and working capital
4. Manage Accounts Receivable and Payable effectively
5. Provide financial insights and reports to the Managing Director and Board
6. Lead continuous improvement of finance systems, processes, and controls
7. Line manage and mentor the finance team, fostering a collaborative culture
8. Represent Active Pathways and Evermore Care Values

What We Are Looking For:

1. Professional accounting qualification (ACA, ACCA, CIMA)
2. Proven senior finance management experience, preferably in care or health sectors
3. Strong commercial, strategic, and stakeholder management skills
4. Excellent leadership and communication skills
5. Advanced MS Excel skills; experience with accounting software (Xero desirable)
6. Experience managing multi-entity finance functions and KPIs
7. Ability to work flexibly part-time and manage priorities

Benefits:

1. 35 days annual leave (including bank holidays), increasing with service, plus recognition days at 2, 3, and 5 years
2. Birthday day off (flexible within three months)
3. Funded professional memberships and career development programs
4. Health Cash Plan, Blue Light Card, Employee Assistance Programme
5. Company Sick Pay: 1 week full pay, 1 half pay after probation
6. Option to purchase additional leave
7. Refer a Friend scheme (up to £500), free DBS checks, free parking

Equal Opportunity Statement:

Active Pathways Ltd is an inclusive employer that values diversity and supports applicants throughout the recruitment process. Adjustments are available for application or interview stages.