Senior Finance Manager

New Wine Trust; United Kingdom; On-site; GBP 45,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading charity organization in the UK is looking for a Financial Manager to lead financial oversight, manage audits, and develop the finance team. The ideal candidate will possess solid experience in charity finances, compliance with sector regulations, and proficiency in financial management systems. This position offers a chance to make a significant impact in a vibrant charity environment.

Qualifications

• Strong financial management experience is essential.
• Track record in producing management and statutory accounts.
• Experience supervising or managing staff.

Responsibilities

• Oversee all accounting and financial operations.
• Manage annual budgets and prepare accurate management reports.
• Prepare and audit end-of-year statutory accounts.

Skills

Planning and organisational skills

Time management

Analytical problem-solving

High attention to detail

Collaborative team player

Communication skills

Education

CCAB qualified accountant or equivalent experience

Tools

Xero

Microsoft Office

Job description

This is a crucial and hands-on leadership role, responsible for overseeing the charity s financial management. You will ensure accurate and timely financial and management reporting, maintain robust financial controls, support the Senior Leadership Team in strategic decision-making, and drive continual improvements in systems and processes.

You will oversee the preparation of statutory accounts and audits, ensure compliance with Charity Commission and Companies House requirements, and develop the Finance Team to deliver excellence. To read the full job description, including information on role particulars, and why New Wine is a fantastic place to work, please download the attached document.

Key Responsibilites:

Routine Financial Oversight

Oversee all accounting, cash management, reconciliations and authorisation of payments.

Monitor day-to-day financial operations: banking transactions, current and deposit accounts, payroll, and other transactions.

Maintain the fixed assets register and monthly depreciation.

Manage cash flow, investing excess cash where appropriate.

Budgeting, Forecasting & Reporting

Manage and prepare annual budgets and forecasts in collaboration with the Director of Operations and senior leadership team.

Provide timely, accurate and accessible management accounts and reports for senior managers, budget holders and Trustees.

Interpret complex financial information clearly for non-finance colleagues.

Regularly update forecasts with a target of quarterly reporting.

Statutory Accounts, Compliance & Audit

Lead the preparation and audit of end-of-year statutory accounts, working closely with external accountants/auditors.

Ensure all statutory obligations are met including VAT returns, Gift Aid claims, Companies House, Charity Commission and HMRC requirements.

Stay up to date with Charity SORP and charity sector financial regulations, ensuring compliance and training the team accordingly.

Systems, Process Improvement & Controls

Design and implement financial systems and process improvements to drive efficiency.

Maintain strong financial governance and internal controls.

Monitor the effectiveness of financial practices and policies and make recommendations for improvements.

Team Leadership

Supervise, develop and motivate the Finance Team to achieve high standards.

Carry out quarterly reviews and provide day-to-day support.

Foster a collaborative, proactive working culture.

Event Finance Management

Oversee financial management at New Wine events, including systems for income reconciliation, cash controls, onsite banking and petty cash.

Ensure accurate reconciliation of income from the event booking system.

HR & Payroll Administration

Oversee payroll preparation and submissions including HMRC and pensions.

Other Duties

Respond to queries from Trustees, Director of Operations, budget managers and external stakeholders as required.

Work well with all members of the wider staff team.

Attend and sometimes lead staff prayers and other meetings.

Person specification:

Essential Attributes

• Strong planning and organisational skills
• Excellent time-management with the ability to manage multiple priorities under tight deadlines
• Analytical approach to problem-solving and sound decision-making capabilities
• Proactive and self-motivated, with a drive to deliver high-quality results
• Commitment to high standards, accuracy, and robust financial controls
• High attention to detail and accuracy
• Collaborative team player with a task-focused mindset and proactive attitude
• Ability to positively influence and persuade others
• Discretion and professionalism in handling sensitive financial information
• Ability to think critically and maintain good judgement under pressure

Essential Skills & Experience

• CCAB qualified accountant or equivalent substantial experience
• Significant experience in financial management, accounting, and budgetary control
• Proven track record in producing management and statutory accounts, and managing audits
• In-depth knowledge of Charity SORP, financial governance, and compliance within the charity sector
• Strong verbal and written communication skills
• Proficiency in Xero and Microsoft Office, including Excel (advanced), Outlook, Word, and Teams
• Experience in payroll administration, including workplace pensions and leave accruals
• Experience of financial governance and control mechanisms
• Proactive approach to adopting new and more efficient ways of working, using the latest software where appropriate, and providing timely, accurate and relevant reports to colleagues.
• Experience supervising or line managing staff, with the ability to develop and motivate teams

Desirable Skills & Experience

• Experience managing restricted or trust funds
• Up-to-date and practical VAT knowledge
• Experience within a faith-based or charity organisation
• Experience engaging with Boards or Trustees
• Familiarity with the financial aspects of event operations
• Understanding of safeguarding, HR, or operational compliance processes
• Diplomatic approach and understanding in stakeholder engagement

Desirable Knowledge

• Strong understanding of charity finance regulations and sector best practices
• Commitment to the vision, mission, and values of New Wine
• Highly proficient in accounting systems and Microsoft 365 (Excel, Outlook, Word, Teams, Planner)

The above list of job deliverables is open and partial, and the post holder will be required to undertake such tasks as may reasonably be expected within the scope and grading of the post.

This job description is intended to summarise the primary responsibilities and qualifications for this position. The job description is not intended to include all duties an individual in this position might be asked to perform or all capabilities that may be required now or in the future. New Wine reserves the right to revise the duties outlined in this job description at its discretion.