Summary
We’re looking for a Head of Management Accounting & Finance Infrastructure to join our Finance Planning & Insight Leadership Team. This role oversees management accounting as well as owning the governance and optimisation of our finance systems, data and reporting processes. You’ll also lead a high-performing team to deliver accurate, timely and well governed financial information which supports insight-driven reporting & decision making.
What it's like to work here
You’ll join a newly shaped and supportive team with expertise across finance systems, management accounting, data and insight. Collaboration, continuous improvement and values‑led leadership are central to how we work.
Your contractual location will be our head office in Swindon and there will be an expectation for you to attend the office. However, there is flexibility on where you are based at other times. You will be required to work at a National Trust location for 40-60% of your working week. This will be discussed in more detail at interview.
What you'll be doing
You’ll lead the integration of finance systems, data and internal reporting processes to create a unified, resilient finance infrastructure aligned to organisational priorities. A core part of the role is setting and upholding high standards for data quality, reporting accuracy and consistency, alongside ownership of internal controls, financial governance and audit readiness for management accounting and reporting. As part of this, you will lead on transformational change in how we manage and understand our accounts, to support the organisation in understanding a truly holistic view of our finances.
Working closely with IT and finance colleagues, you’ll develop and maintain a clear finance systems and reporting roadmap, ensuring software and tools are secure, fit for purpose and capable of supporting decision‑making across the organisation. You’ll also represent Finance where required on strategic boards, including acting as Strategic Finance Lead for the Digital, Data & Technology Strategic Portfolio Board. Alongside this, you’ll lead, develop and motivate a high‑performing team, building capability across systems, data, reporting and process improvement while fostering a positive, inclusive and collaborative culture.
You can view the full role profile for this role in the document attached. You don't need to have all of the knowledge, skills and experience listed in the role profile; this is just to provide a full picture of what’s possible in this role
Who we're looking for
1. Senior experience in management accounting and internal financial performance reporting.
2. Knowledge of governance, risk and performance management frameworks, including business intelligence and data governance tools.
3. Strong data and analytical capability, with the ability to interpret complex financial information and apply sound judgement.
4. Problem‑solving and decision‑making skills with the ability to identify root causes and evaluate options which will drive efficiency
5. Clear and engaging communication skills, able to tailor technical or financial information for different audiences.
6. Strong knowledge of finance systems and workflows, with experience improving processes, data or reporting.
7. Experience building and leading high‑performing teams and fostering continuous improvement.
The package
The National Trust has the motto ‘For everyone, for ever’ at its heart. We’re working hard to create an inclusive culture, where everyone feels they belong. It’s important that our people reflect and represent the diversity of the communities and audiences we serve. We welcome and value difference, so when we say we’re for everyone, we want everyone to be welcome in our teams too.
•Substantial pension scheme of up to 10% basic salary
•Free entry to National Trust places for you, a guest and your children (under 18)
•Rental deposit loan scheme
•Season ticket loan
•EV car lease scheme (for roles that meet the salary criteria)
•Perks at work discounts such as gym memberships, shopping discount codes, cinema discounts
•Holiday allowance up to 32 days relating to length of service, plus holiday purchase scheme, subject to meeting minimum criteria.
•Flexible working whenever possible
•Employee assistance programme
•Free parking at most Trust places