Head of Finance

Your new company Hays Accountancy and Finance are working in partnership with an experienced and commercially minded Head of Finance to join its senior leadership team. This is a pivotal role responsible for leading the day-to-day financial management of the organisation while supporting the Director of Finance in delivering strategic objectives and ensuring long-term financial successful candidate will provide strong financial leadership, oversee financial reporting and compliance, manage budgeting and forecasting processes, and lead the development of a high-performing finance team.

This role offers the opportunity to contribute meaningfully to an organisation that delivers significant social impact across Northern Ireland. Your new role Financial Leadership Lead and manage the finance function, ensuring efficient and effective financial operations. Deputise for the Director of Finance when required. Support the development and delivery of organisational financial strategy. Contribute to corporate planning, risk management, and business transformation initiatives.

Financial Reporting & Management Accounts Prepare and review monthly management accounts. Produce accurate financial reports, KPIs, and variance analysis. Present financial information to senior leadership and trustees. Monitor financial performance against budgets and forecasts. Budgeting & Forecasting Lead the annual budgeting process across the organisation. Develop rolling forecasts and long-term financial plans. Partner with operational managers to support budget ownership and accountability.

Identify financial risks and opportunities, recommending corrective action where necessary. Financial Control & Compliance Maintain robust financial controls, policies, and procedures. Ensure compliance with Charity Commission, Companies House, HMRC, and statutory reporting requirements. Oversee reconciliations, control accounts, and treasury management activities. Drive best practice in governance and risk management. Payroll Management Oversee the end-to-end payroll function. Review and approve payroll submissions, salary changes, overtime, and statutory payments.

Ensure compliance with HMRC, pension, and employment legislation. Manage relationships with payroll providers and pension administrators. Monitor payroll costs and provide analysis to support decision-making. Audit & Statutory Reporting Lead the annual external audit process. Prepare statutory accounts and supporting documentation. Act as the primary contact for auditors and regulatory bodies. Ensure timely completion of all statutory returns and filings.

Charity & Fund Accounting Manage accounting for restricted, unrestricted, and designated funds. Ensure compliance with Charity SORP and relevant accounting standards. Monitor grant funding income and expenditure. Support financial reporting requirements for funders and stakeholders. Team Leadership Lead, coach, and develop the finance team. Set clear objectives and performance expectations. Identify training and development opportunities. Foster a culture of accountability, collaboration, and continuous improvement.

Stakeholder Management Build trusted relationships with budget holders and operational managers. Provide expert financial advice and guidance to internal stakeholders. Liaise with external partners including auditors, funders, banks, and professional advisers. Systems & Process Improvement Drive continuous improvement across finance systems and processes. Lead finance-related projects and digital transformation initiatives. Ensure financial systems remain scalable and fit for purpose. What you'll need to succeed Essential Qualifications Fully qualified accountant (ACA, ACCA, CIMA, CIPFA or equivalent).…