THE ROLE:

The Finance Manager plays a critical role in ensuring the financial health and sustainability of the organisation. This role is responsible for maintaining accurate financial records, overseeing budgeting and forecasting, managing cash flow, and ensuring compliance with statutory and regulatory requirements.
The Finance Manager supports the Board of Trustees and Senior Leadership Team (SLT) by providing timely, accurate, and insightful financial reporting. The role also includes preparing for audits or independent examinations, ensuring compliance with UK charity accounting standards (SORP), and supporting funding applications and grant reporting with financial data.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES AND MAIN DUTIES:

• Contribute to the 3 year strategy and build budgets that reflect the plan and activity.
• Provide financial leadership and guidance to colleagues, responding to feedback and promoting financial awareness across the organisation.
• Planning and Delivery
• Prepare monthly and quarterly financial reports for Managers, SLT (Senior Leadership Team) and Trustees, highlighting variances and areas of concern.
• Manage bank accounts, process payments and reconcile transactions. In conjunction with People and Governance Lead prepare payroll for approval by CEO.
• Ensure compliance with charity financial regulations and reporting requirements such as SORP and OSCR.
• Prepare annual financial statements liaising with external auditors.
• Identify opportunities for cost savings and collaborate with relevant departments to implement efficiencies.
• Maintain accurate financial records using Xero and other software as appropriate.
• Ensure adherence to the Financial Procedures Manual and update it annually for Trustee approval.
• Prepare annual budgets and quarterly forecasts in conjunction with Managers and SLT.
• Maintain effective relationships with all SSF staff, ensuring effective controls for financial management are in place.
• Maintain strong relationship with external auditors and bank ensuring documentation is up to date.
• Identify opportunities for cost savings and collaborate with relevant departments to implement efficiencies (e.g., budgeting, reporting, cost analysis).
• Work with People & Governance Lead to identify the learning needs and styles of colleagues in relation to finance processes and procedures.
• Stay up to date with relevant financial regulations, trends, and best practice