"ASK NOT WHAT YOUR COMMUNITY CAN DO FOR YOU, ASK WHAT YOU CAN DO FOR YOUR COMMUNITY"
Serve is looking for passionate, community-minded individuals who want to make a real difference in the lives of others.
If you're driven by purpose, compassion, and the desire to support people in your area, we want to hear from you.
CHARITY OVERVIEW
SERVE is a voluntary organisation and a registered charity. We have been providing services and assistance to older people and adults with disabilities, and their carers Countywide and in North Northamptonshire and the surrounding area for over 40 years.
Our aim is to provide the highest quality of health and social care to enable people to remain living independently within their own homes. We deliver a service to a wide range of adults who need care and support.
JOB BRIEF
SERVE is seeking a skilled and motivated Finance Manager to lead our finance function. This role is central to ensuring financial compliance, strategic oversight, and operational excellence across all aspects of our charity's finances. You will manage the finance team, work closely with the CEO, and support the organisation's financial sustainability and decision-making.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
Financial Leadership & Strategy
* Develop and implement financial policies and plans aligned with SERVE's mission.
* Provide financial insights and strategic recommendations to the CEO.
* Support long-term financial planning, reserves management, and funding bids.
* Monitor regulatory and funding environments to ensure compliance.
Financial Management & Compliance
* Oversee budgeting, forecasting, reporting, and cash flow management.
* Ensure compliance with the Charities Act, HMRC, Charity Commission, and SORP.
* Prepare annual accounts and manage audit/examination processes.
* Maintain robust internal controls and risk management systems.
Budgeting & Reporting
* Lead the annual budgeting process with senior staff.
* Produce monthly management accounts with variance analysis.
* Prepare quarterly Trustee reports and monitor reserves.
* Present financial performance at Board and leadership meetings.
Banking, Cash & Treasury
* Manage bank and credit card reconciliations.
* Monitor petty cash and departmental floats.
* Ensure secure cash handling and payment authorisation.
Income & Expenditure
* Ensure accurate recording of income (donations, grants, fundraising).
* Manage expenditure approvals, invoices, and expense claims.
* Raise and manage invoices for Care services and the Day Centre.
* Monitor restricted funds and coordinate partner funding payments.
* Prepare and submit Gift Aid claims.
Procurement & Contracts
* Oversee procurement for transparency and value for money.
* Approve contracts and supplier agreements.
* Ensure competitive quotes and maintain documentation.
Payroll & Staffing Costs
* Ensure accurate payroll, pensions, and HMRC submissions.
* Reconcile payroll monthly and analyse staffing costs.
Assets & Systems
* Maintain fixed asset register and depreciation records.
* Conduct annual asset checks and inventory reconciliations.
* Optimise finance systems and lead digitalisation efforts.
Team Leadership
* Lead and support finance staff with clear objectives.
* Promote a culture of accountability and continuous improvement.
* Support training and development within the finance team.
Key Operational Tasks
* Monthly bank and credit card reconciliations.
* Payroll processing and staffing cost reconciliation.
* Expense payments and Gift Aid submissions.
* Asset register maintenance and accounting journals.
* Financial reporting for CEO and Trustees.
REQUIREMENTS & QUALIFICATIONS
Essential
* AAT Level 3 qualification or equivalent in accounting or finance
* Proficiency in financial software (e.g., Sage) and Excel.
* Strong reporting, budgeting, and analytical skills.
* Excellent attention to detail and communication skills.
Desirable
* Charity finance experience with knowledge of Charity SORP and regulations.
* Understanding of fundraising income and restricted funds.
* Familiarity with ERP systems (Sage, SAP, Oracle, Dynamics).
SKILLS & ATTRIBUTES
* Financial management and reporting expertise.
* Strong planning and organisational skills.
* Risk and compliance awareness.
* Excellent communication and influencing abilities.
* Team leadership and motivation.
* High integrity, accountability, and professionalism.
Job Type: Full-time
Pay: £40,000.00-£45,000.00 per year
Benefits:
* Company pension
* On-site parking
Work Location: In person