Interim Financial Controller

Interim Financial ControllerLocation: Okehampton area, Devon
Contract Type: Interim / Temporary (with potential to go permanent for the right candidate)
Reporting to: Chief Operating Officer (COO)

Purpose of Role

The Interim Financial Controller will ensure the effective and resilient day-to-day operation of the Accounts function for the charity organisation and its trading subsidiaries. This includes delivering accurate statutory accounts, managing monthly financial processes, and overseeing purchase and sales ledgers, including fees and other income streams.

Key Details

• Salary: Up to 55,000 per annum (day rate equivalent during interim period)
• Working Pattern: 4 days per week, onsite in Okehampton
• Contract: Interim with potential to become permanent for the right candidate

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and manage the Accounts function, ensuring accurate and timely financial processes.
• Oversee invoicing processes, ensuring data integrity between internal systems and Sage.
• Daily reconciliation of cashflow bank accounts and full month-end reconciliations.
• Manage Accounts Payable and Receivable, ensuring ledgers are maintained and transactions recorded promptly.
• Oversee debtor management and support recovery of overdue fees.
• Maintain monthly balance sheet reconciliations and assist with fixed assets, investments, leases, accruals, and prepayments.
• Prepare and file quarterly VAT returns and liaise with HMRC on VAT, PAYE, and online returns.
• Support payroll processes, including reconciliation and journal input, and oversee pensions and P11D reporting.
• Maintain security and administration of Sage Financial Systems.
• Lead preparation for annual audit, liaising with auditors and ensuring compliance with statutory requirements.
• Assist with cash flow forecasting and budget reviews in collaboration with the Management Accountant.
• Review and maintain financial policies and support ad-hoc projects as required.

Skills & ExperienceEssential:

• Proven experience in finance or accountancy roles.
• Strong leadership skills with experience managing a finance team.
• Advanced Excel and proficiency in financial systems (Sage preferred).
• Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills.
• Ability to work under pressure with competing priorities.
• High level of integrity and discretion.

Desirable:

• Experience implementing new systems and driving process improvements.
• Background in education or charity sector finance.

Qualifications

• ACA, ACCA, or CIMA qualified (or part-qualified as a minimum).
• Strong academic background (GCSE/A-Level).

Other Requirements

• Enhanced DBS check and compliance with safer recruitment practices.

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