Job Title

Job Description Head of FinanceLocation: Carlisle (with 1 optional WFH day)Salary: Up to 45,150 FTEHours: 37.5 per week (30 hours considered)Contract: PermanentBenefits: 26 days holiday + bank holidays, 6% employer pension, birthday day offThe Role A Head of Finance is required to lead and strengthen financial management across two entities. This senior leadership position will provide strategic financial insight, ensure strong financial governance, and oversee a highperforming finance team. The role combines handson financial control with forwardlooking planning, supporting longterm sustainability and organisational growth.Key Responsibilities Strategic LeadershipShape longterm financial strategy and support senior decisionmaking.Provide financial insight and analysis to guide organisational priorities.Lead financial risk management and embed sustainability into financial modelling. Financial Reporting & ComplianceOversee timely and accurate monthly management accounts.Lead statutory accounts and annual audit processes.Ensure compliance with relevant accounting standards, tax requirements, and regulatory obligations.Maintain fully reconciled balance sheet accounts with appropriate documentation. Budgeting, Forecasting & PlanningLead the annual budget cycle, including consolidation and presentation.Manage quarterly reforecasting and variance analysis.Partner with budget holders to strengthen financial understanding and accountability.Lead financial planning and costing for projects and new initiatives. Leadership & Team DevelopmentManage and develop the Finance Manager.Oversee the wider finance team across multiple locations.Foster a highperformance culture through coaching, objective setting, and skills development.Promote continuous improvement and strong communication within the finance function. Operations & ControlsMaintain and enhance financial controls and processes.Oversee accounts payable, receivable, payroll, bank reconciliations, and daily operations.Develop and optimise financial systems to support efficiency and growth. External RelationshipsLiaise with auditors, banks, suppliers, and regulatory bodies.Represent finance at senior leadership and trustee board meetings when required. Person Specification EssentialCIMA qualified (QBE considered with strong experience).Minimum 3 years' experience in a senior finance role.Proven leadership experience managing staff and finance functions.Strong track record in improving financial processes and delivering strategic insight.Excellent communication and stakeholder engagement skills.Confident presenting to senior leaders and boards.Advanced Excel skills and experience with Sage 50. DesirableExperience working across multiple entities or complex structures.Knowledge of charity accounting, regulations, and SORP. Additional InformationFlexibility is required as responsibilities may evolve with organisational needs.Appointment is subject to a satisfactory DBS check.JBRP1_UKTJ