Head of Finance

Head of Finance, Central London – Arts Education, Up to GBP65,000
A new leadership role has become available in a leading and long-standing arts education institution based in Central London. This role would be well suited to qualified candidates in the charity sector who are keen to lead a team and develop systems and processes across the entire finance function. Leading a team of 5, you would be responsible for the financial controls along with assisting the COO in the strategic plans for the organisation moving forwards.
Key Responsibilities:
Monitor and review the effectiveness of financial controls to ensure that they remain appropriate at all times
Work with budget holders to prepare the annual budget for approval by the Finance Committee and Department for Education
Work with the Chief Operating Officer on general strategic organisational development, service and business planning
Implement new financial system to meet the increased demands of the School and its reporting
Ensure compliance with all relevant financial legislation, regulations and guidelines such as SORP, VAT, Charity Commission requirements, etc
Prepare quarterly VAT returns and annual corporate tax returns for trading company
Monitor and manage cash flows to maximise interest receivable
Maintain strong working relationships with bankers, auditors and investment managers.
Manage the finance team; monitoring their work, setting targets and carrying out regular reviews
Assist the COO in the preparation of papers for the Finance Committees termly meetings
Oversee the processing of donations and grants to ensure they are properly accounted for and that Gift Aid claims are made accurately and promptly
Ensure an appropriate distinction is maintained between restricted and unrestricted funds and monitor use of restricted funds to ensure that all restrictions are observed
Coordinate the smooth operation of the monthly payroll and ensure that all relevant requirements relating to PAYE, etc. are complied with.
Draft annual financial statements and supporting papers in line with the Charities SORP, Companies Act and all other relevant reporting requirements
Oversee the annual audit ensuring the team prepare all relevant documentation.
Ensure accurate and timely submission of HMRC returns (RTI, P11D, PAYE Settlement Agreements, etc.)

Key Skills & Qualifications:
Qualified (ACA/ACCA/CIMA) Accountant with experience leading a finance function
Understanding of charity accounting requirements and of the Charities SORP 2015
Previous management experience with a focus on developing and training staff
Excellent interpersonal and communication skills
Ability to present financial information in an accessible format
Able to interpret and clearly explain complex financial data to non-finance staff, students and parents
Proactive and flexible attitude