Job Title: Financial Controller Location: Greater Belfast Area Start Date: ASAP. Permanent Salary: £56,730 – £62,636 per annum (pro rata) We are seeking an experienced Financial Controller to lead the accounting function for a respected organisation in the not-for-profit sector. This permanent role will ensure that financial services are fit for purpose, fully compliant with all regulatory and statutory requirements, and aligned with sector best practice. The role combines leadership, strategic oversight, and hands-on accounting responsibilities, including ownership of transactional duties, while liaising closely with a Management Accountant to support accurate reporting and decision-making. Key Responsibilities 1. Leadership and Management Manage the accounting services function, ensuring compliance with policies, statutory, and regulatory requirements. Line-manage finance team members through regular 1:1s, annual appraisals, and performance management. Participate in corporate activities including recruitment panels, grievance/discipline investigations, and cross-departmental initiatives. Handle confidential and commercial information with discretion. Ensure robust financial and governance controls are in place and maintained. Represent the finance function in committees, project teams, and inter-departmental meetings. Deputise for the Director as required. 2. Transactional Duties & Liaison with Management Accountant Take responsibility for day-to-day transactional accounting, including payroll, banking, sales and purchase ledgers, project and nominal ledgers, and fixed assets register. Ensure accurate and timely processing of all financial transactions. Work closely with the Management Accountant to support the production of management accounts, reporting, and analysis. Ensure transactional processes adhere to financial controls, policies, and regulatory requirements. 3. Best Practice & Continuous Improvement Assist with internal and external audits, risk management processes, and follow through on action plans. Review and update finance systems and procedures to ensure efficiency, security, and compliance with data protection regulations. Identify and implement process improvements, strengthening financial controls and enhancing service quality. 4. Financial Strategy Lead the preparation of annual accounts and financial statements. Act as primary liaison with external auditors during the year-end audit process. Oversee financial reporting for subsidiaries, ensuring accuracy and compliance. 5. Management Accounts & Budgeting Establish month-end routines and support timely production of management accounts. Contribute to variance analysis and highlight areas of concern. Produce key performance indicators for finance team and budget holders. Assist with preparation of budgets, forecasts, and cash flow planning. 6. Compliance Provide financial data for regulatory, statutory, and contractual compliance. Manage pension scheme administration and ensure all statutory returns are submitted on time. Oversee grant claims and recording of capital/revenue scheme funding. Ensure VAT and other HMRC compliance. 7. Policies, Procedures & Governance Develop, implement, and maintain financial policies and procedures in line with regulatory requirements. Regularly review financial controls and systems to maintain best practice standards. 8. Business Partnering Evaluate financial implications of new projects, policies, and opportunities. Assist with financial viability assessments for capital schemes and organisational initiatives. Support the Director in overseeing the finance function and communicating key issues. 9. General Responsibilities Represent the organisation professionally in all activities. Ensure safe working practices in line with Health and Safety regulations. Maintain a neat and professional appearance, including work area and desk. Promote compliance with Equality and statutory duties. Undertake mandatory training as required. Cover duties for colleagues during periods of absence when required. Requirements & Experience Proven experience in a senior finance/accounting role, preferably as a Financial Controller. Strong technical knowledge of accounting, financial reporting, and compliance. Experience managing a team and implementing financial controls and best practices. Experience with transactional accounting, management accounts, budgeting, forecasting, and audit processes. Excellent communication and leadership skills. Applicants must have permanent right to work in the UK; no sponsorship is offered. Benefits Contributory pension scheme Health cash plan (covering dental, optical, and medical costs, including dependents in full-time education up to age 18) Free employee health checks Cycle to Work scheme Flexibility regarding working hours (where applicable) Hybrid working available following induction and training How to Apply If you would like to learn more or apply, please contact Apple Recruitment at patricia.oneill@applerecruitment.com today. All applications will be treated in the strictest confidence. Apple Recruitment Services is acting as a Recruitment Agency in relation to this vacancy and is an Equal Opportunities Employer.