Finance and Operations Lead

A pivotal role at the intersection of finance and operations, helping to ensure the smooth and effective running of key organisational functions.

Job Description

The Centre for Homelessness Impact exists to improve the lives of people experiencing homelessness through better use of data and evidence.

We are committed to creating an inclusive workplace that values diversity and believes in its power to enhance the effectiveness of our organisation. As we continue to grow and make an impact, we are seeking a Finance and Operations Lead to join our dedicated team at the Centre for Homelessness Impact. We encourage applications from individuals of all backgrounds, with a particular welcome to those with experiences related to homelessness.

This is a pivotal role at the intersection of finance and operations, helping to ensure the smooth and effective running of key organisational functions. The Finance and Operations Lead will play an integral role in overseeing the charity’s financial operations, supporting grant reporting and wider business development initiatives, and driving operational efficiency across the organisation.

Collaborating closely with the senior and wider teams, the Finance and Operations Lead will play a key role in financial management, and operational effectiveness, contributing directly to the success of our initiatives.

• Be the main point of contact for all finance and operational queries
• Manage the organisation’s core financial operations, including monthly Management Accounts, project finances, VAT returns and financial reporting, while working closely with external bookkeepers to ensure effective financial management and compliance, while working closely with the COO on financial oversight and planning
• Coordinate and manage the annual budgeting, Mid Year Forecasting and audit processes, preparing financial information, liaising with budget holders and external accountants, and ensuring timelines, reporting requirements and supporting documentation are delivered accurately and on time, while working closely with the COO on final review and strategic adjustments
• Manage the accounts payable and receivable functions, credit card reconciliations and support effective cash management
• Support the Head of People and Development with the delivery and implementation of the internal People Strategy (specifically focusing on refining recruitment, onboarding and offboarding processes, as well as providing support with grant reporting and budgeting requirements for funders)
• Manage day-to-day operations across the organisation, including onboarding new staff, supporting HR processes, coordinating office management and equipment setup, liaising with IT support providers, arranging organisation-wide cyber security training, and ensuring the smooth running of operational processes while identifying areas for improvement
• Collaborate with the Chief Operating Officer and the Head of Development and People to align financial and development goals
• Identify ways to enhance operational processes to support the growth of the organisation.
• Support the Engine Room team to establish effective organisational systems, routines and operational processes that support collaborative, person-centred and efficient ways of working across the organisation
• Work closely with the Senior Team to provide financial insights, support strategic decision-making, and contribute to governance processes, including coordinating board paper inputs and monitoring organisational KPIs

• Proven experience in finance and operations in a charity/ Third sector (Essential)
• Experience in fundraising/development initiatives (Desirable)
• Is committed to the vision and mission of CHI (Essential)
• Excellent communications skills, both written and verbal with the ability to convey complex financial information to diverse audiences (Essential)
• Strong attention to detail, good organisational skills and an ability to work accurately, calmly and effectively (Essential)
• Good Excel skills with ability to create and manipulate…