Senior Financial Accountant

Ready to take ownership of a high-impact finance function in a broad and rewarding role?

This well-established UK humanitarian charity is seeking a Senior Financial Accountant to lead its core accounting function and ensure financial integrity during both business-as-usual activity and large-scale emergency appeals.

This is a hands-on leadership role for a technically strong Financial Accountant who thrives in fast-paced, purpose-driven environments. Working closely with the Director of Finance, you’ll play a critical role in safeguarding financial control, supporting senior decision-making, and leading a capable finance team through periods of intense activity.

What you’ll gain

-Play a critical role in a mission-driven organisation
-Exposure to executive-level decision-making
-Lead during moments that matter most
-Flexible working with a supportive culture

What you’ll do as Senior Financial Accountant

• Lead the day-to-day running of the accounting function, ensuring robust financial control, reconciliations, and accurate reporting

• Manage month-end and year-end close, including preparation of statutory accounts and leading the annual audit
• Oversee high-volume income processing and reconciliation during emergency appeals, ensuring funds reconcile to bank and are accurately distributed to members
• Produce management accounts and support budget holders with financial insight and variance analysis
• Maintain and improve accounting processes and systems (SUN Accounts), identifying pragmatic improvements over time
• Support strong financial governance, compliance, and internal controls
• Line manage and develop a small, experienced finance team
• Deputise for the Director of Finance as required (a small but valued part of the role)

What you’ll need

• A recognised accounting qualification (ACA, ACCA, CIMA, or equivalent); qualified by experience candidates considered
• A strong financial accounting background, with expertise in:
• Ledger management and reconciliations
• Month-end and year-end close
• Taking accounts through audit
• Producing management accounts
• Line management experience and the ability to lead with a light-touch, trust-based approach
• Experience in the charity or not-for-profit sector is highly desirable 
• Ability to work calmly and accurately in high-volume, time-pressured environments
• A genuine passion for purpose-driven work and alignment with humanitarian values

Location & working pattern

This role offers a highly flexible hybrid working model, with limited in-office attendance (typically two set days per month), alongside increased commitment during emergency appeal periods.

This Head of Finance position offers a rare opportunity to combine technical excellence, leadership, and purpose at a time of exceptional organisational importance. Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis, and early interest is encouraged.