Financial Controller (12-15 Month Fixed-Term Contract)

Location: Outskirts of Liverpool City Centre (3 days per week office-based)
Contract Type: Fixed-Term (12 - 15 months)
Salary: £65,000 - £70,000
Sector: Not-for-Profit / Charity
Salary: Competitive, dependent on experience
Start Date: As soon as possible

About Us

My client is a not-for-profit organisation committed to making a meaningful difference in the communities they serve. With operations based on the outskirts of Liverpool City Centre.
My client is seeking an experienced and strategic Financial Controller to join their senior leadership team on a 12-15 month fixed-term basis. This role is ideal for someone with a strong background in charity accounting, who can lead financial strategy and governance while supporting our continued growth and sustainability.

Key Responsibilities

Strategic Leadership

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  Act as a key advisor within the Senior Leadership Team, shaping financial strategy, managing risk, and supporting long-term organisational planning.
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  Drive the development of a high-performing finance function underpinned by effective systems, processes, and internal controls.
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  Ensure financial planning is aligned with our mission and strategic objectives.

Financial Management & Reporting

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  Lead the preparation of timely and accurate management accounts, statutory reports, and financial statements in accordance with Charities SORP and UK GAAP.
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  Oversee the annual budgeting process and provide guidance and challenge to budget holders.
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  Monitor financial performance to ensure alignment with strategic goals and effective use of resources.
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  Manage cash flow, investments, and treasury activities to maintain financial resilience.
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  Deliver insightful financial analysis, forecasting, and reporting to inform executive decision-making.

Governance & Compliance

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  Ensure full compliance with audit, tax, regulatory, and statutory requirements.
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  Maintain and regularly review financial policies, ensuring they reflect best practice and regulatory changes.
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  Lead on the preparation for external audits and act as the primary point of contact for auditors.
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  Oversee contractual and financial commitments, ensuring sustainability and value for money.

Stakeholder Engagement

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  Build strong relationships with funders, commissioners, and external partners, ensuring our services are financially sustainable and strategically aligned.
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  Offer clear, accessible financial insight to Trustees, the Executive Team, and senior colleagues to support transparent decision-making.

Person Specification

Essential

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  Qualified accountant (e.g. ACA, ACCA, CIMA, CIPFA) with substantial post-qualification experience.
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  Proven track record of financial leadership within the charity or not-for-profit sector.
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  Deep understanding of charity accounting, including SORP and relevant regulatory frameworks.
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