Interim Head of Finance

Michael Page (UK); Woking; On-site; GBP 60,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading organization in horticulture is seeking an Interim Head of Finance for a 4 to 6 month contract. The role involves leading a finance team, developing strategies, and ensuring compliance with financial regulations. Ideal candidates will have strong leadership skills and experience in the charity sector.

Benefits

25 days holiday plus bank holidays

Pension scheme

Life assurance and private medical insurance

Complimentary tickets to RHS shows

Free entry to gardens for friends/family

Free parking at Wisley site

Qualifications

• CIMA/ACCA/ACA or equivalent with a degree or comparable experience.
• Proven experience in producing statutory charity accounts.
• Extensive management experience, including developing large teams.

Responsibilities

• Lead a team of 30 staff, including 9 direct reports.
• Collaborate with the Director of Finance to develop a financial strategy.
• Ensure effective financial policies, procedures, and controls.

Skills

Financial legislation knowledge

Business partnering expertise

Leadership skills

Education

CIMA/ACCA/ACA or equivalent

Degree or comparable experience

Tools

NAV18

MS Dynamics (NAV)

Job description

Interim Head of Finance for RHS Wisley Gardens

• ACA/ACCA/CIMA qualified accountant

About Our Client

I am delighted to be exclusively partnering with RHS Wisley Gardens to recruit an Interim Head of Finance for a 4 to 6 month contract.

For over 200 years, the RHS has been a leader in horticulture, influencing global gardening practices and creating inspiring spaces and experiences. We are committed to caring for plants and supporting our 1,200 colleagues and 2,000 volunteers through training, qualifications, and a unique environment.

We seek individuals who can influence and realize our mission: connecting more people to plants, promoting the health benefits of gardening, sharing our scientific and horticultural expertise, and inspiring lifelong gardening adventures for all ages and backgrounds. If you're passionate about growing your career through the positive power of gardening, we look forward to building our future together.

Job Description

1. Lead a team of 30 staff, including 9 direct reports.
2. Collaborate with the Director of Finance to develop a financial strategy supporting the Society's future goals.
3. Ensure effective financial policies, procedures, and controls across the charity and its trading subsidiaries.
4. Work with senior managers to enhance financial awareness, set realistic targets, and support business performance.
5. Manage financial accounting and processing, ensuring timely management and statutory accounts in line with current standards.
6. Oversee monthly, forecast, and budget reporting with commentary for the entire Group.
7. Provide financial analysis and guidance to divisions to help achieve budget and strategic goals.
8. Maintain strong financial controls, reconciliations, and asset management, including cash flow and investments.
9. Develop tax-efficient planning strategies, ensuring compliance with HM Revenue and Customs, VAT, and Gift Aid regulations.
10. Support contract negotiations, minimizing financial, commercial, and legal risks.
11. Ensure accurate and efficient payroll processing, including compliance with HMRC PAYE regulations.
12. Manage group insurances, leading annual negotiations.
13. Promote health, safety, and welfare of staff and volunteers, ensuring compliance with RHS procedures and risk assessments.

The Successful Applicant

• CIMA/ACCA/ACA or equivalent with a degree or comparable experience.
• Knowledge of financial legislation relevant to the charity/non-profit sector.
• Experience with NAV18 and/or MS Dynamics (NAV).
• Understanding of Tax, VAT, Gift Aid, Pensions Compliance, and statutory accounts.
• Proven experience in producing statutory charity accounts.
• Extensive management experience, including developing large teams.
• Business partnering expertise.
• Strong leadership skills with the ability to build effective relationships across all levels.
• Experience working in complex organizations.

What’s on Offer

• 25 days holiday plus bank holidays, with options to purchase additional days.
• Pension scheme (details TBC).
• Life assurance, group income protection, and private medical insurance.
• Complimentary tickets to RHS shows for friends and family.
• Free entry to gardens and two additional tickets for friends/family.
• Free parking at Wisley site.