Head of Finance

This is an opportunity for a senior role within the Finance Department of the Diocese of Southwark. The role involves the statutory and management accounting of a large Diocese, with around 300 parishes and clergy, £30m turnover and £300m balance sheet. You will work closely with the Director of Finance accounting for a major charity and supporting a wide range of parishes.

The job is wide ranging, and you will be given a high degree of latitude and responsibility in a collaborative relationship with the Director of Finance.

In conjunction with the Director of Finance you will manage the efficient operation of the finance function through management and statutory accounting, internal control and cash management.

You will manage the accounting system covering processes for nominal ledger, purchase and sales ledger, stipends and payroll.

Through the work of the department you will contribute to the effective stewardship of resources and the transparent accountability that is the hallmark of the Diocese of Southwark.

Working alongside the Director of Finance you will produce the annual financial statements and work with him on managing the annual audit process.

You will produce monthly management accounts on a timely basis as key financial information for the efficient management of the Diocese and for the information of Trustees. The Diocese uses XLedger and you will become the primary contact and knowledge base for the system, developing its reporting and functionality.

You will be responsible for the financial systems and processes of the finance department, and manage part of the finance team. You will oversee the team members responsible for payroll, stipends, purchase ledger and banking.

You will work with a wide range of people throughout the organisation, and have key relationships with those working on generous giving and vocations.

You must be a qualified accountant.

We are looking for someone who is a qualified accountant, with charity accounting experience.

• High degree of ability with accounting software packages, managing data flows into and out of such systems.
• Experience of staff management and supervision, and who also enjoys building relationships outside the finance team.

• Is most comfortable and productive working as part of an open and collaborative team.
• Responds quickly to changing priorities, and can manage these while maintaining adherence to the deadlines that financial reporting cycles demand.
• Has an affinity with the aims and values of the Church of England.