Head of Finance Temporary Maternity Cover

Job Opportunity

We are looking for an experienced and inspirational Head of Finance to lead our finance function during a period of maternity leave. This is a key leadership position within CHSW, ensuring that our financial reporting, control environment and strategic planning continue to support outstanding care delivery. As Head of Finance, you will:

• Lead, motivate and develop the Finance team to deliver a professional, supportive and efficient service
• Oversee monthly and quarterly management accounts, KPIs and performance reporting
• Lead on budgeting, reforecasting, cashflow and short- to medium term cash management
• Produce annual statutory accounts for CHSW and its subsidiary, and work closely with external auditors
• Oversee payroll processing and statutory compliance (pensions, HMRC, P11
  
  Ds etc.)
• Ensure accurate VAT and tax accounting, working closely with specialist advisers
• Maintain effective financial controls, policies and system governance
• Act as the finance lead on cross functional projects and internal committees
• Work closely with senior leaders and operational colleagues, promoting strong financial stewardship across the organisation
• Support the Director of Finance & Retail, providing cover for SMT, committee and Board work where required

• ACA qualified (or equivalent) and a member of a recognised accounting professional body (e.g., ICAEW)
• Significant finance leadership experience in a similar sized organisation
• Strong experience in annual financial reporting and charity accounts, budget preparation and financial modelling, management accounts and KPI reporting, financial processing functions, internal controls and finance procedures
• Excellent communication skills, with the ability to explain complex financial matters to non finance colleagues
• Experience leading and developing teams
• A proactive, solutions focused approach and the ability to manage multiple priorities
• A full UK driving licence

• Charity taxation experience, including VAT and partial exemption
• Experience with Xledger
• Experience working within a hospice, charity or large retail linked organisation
• Knowledge of statutory grant or charitable trust reporting

At Children's Hospice South West (CHSW), we provide vital, compassionate care for babies and children with life limiting conditions and their families. Our work is only possible thanks to our dedicated teams who share our passion, values and commitment to excellence.

We value our staff and offer an excellent working environment with an enthusiastic and committed team, you will also benefit from:

• 33 days (plus bank holidays) holiday entitlement, which increases with service
• Enhanced sick pay scheme rising up to 6 months full and 6 months half pay
• Personal pension scheme with 7% employer contribution
• Family friendly policies, with enhanced maternity/adoption pay
• Occupational health, wellbeing and counselling services and employee assistance programme
• Group life insurance scheme
• Training and development opportunities
• Environmental and green agenda
• Supportive and inclusive environment
• A chance to make a real difference