Your new company
Abbeyfield Wey Valley Society presents a compelling opportunity if you are looking for a broad CFO role with the chance to make a true impact. The CEO, Sally Tidy believes "This is a very broad role and is perfect for someone who wants to be involved in more than just producing the Budgets & monthly Management Accounts. There's a fair amount happening in the next five years, from a £5m extension to one of our homes, to expanding our offering to new areas and potentially building a new c £10m care home, as well as helping to formulate both strategy and tactics with the leadership team and I. Your colleagues are a great bunch of people and you will love working with them! It really helps if you have a strong sense of humour, are outgoing and don't take yourself too seriously!"
Your new role
As Chief Financial Officer, you will work closely with the CEO, COO and Board, providing strategic financial leadership while ensuring robust operational management across finance, HR, legal matters and systems. This is a hands‑on, fully office‑based position, suited to someone who enjoys combining strategic oversight with day‑to‑day involvement and who thrives within a positive, fun and collaborative team culture.This is a broad and influential role with real scope to shape the Society's long‑term direction and future success.
Key responsibilitiesStrategy & Planning
Support the development of organisational strategy and business planning.
Provide commercial insight and advice to the CEO.
Identify funding opportunities and support budget development for new initiatives.
Lead forward‑looking financial strategies with a focus on risk, sustainability and growth.
Oversee budgeting, capital planning and KPI frameworks.Operations
Play an integral role in executive‑level decision‑making.
Build strong, collaborative relationships across the organisation and support non‑finance colleagues.
Develop and enhance financial systems and processes.
Manage investment relationships to maximise returns.
Lead the finance function and oversee payroll, purchasing and transactional processes.
Oversee due diligence, acquisitions and potential divestments.
Lead the development and maintenance of the Society's IT systems.Financial Reporting
Ensure accurate and timely reporting to the Charity Commission, Companies House, Homes England, the Regulator of Social Housing and the ONS.
Present financial results and insights to the Board, Finance Committee and CEO.Financial Risk Management
Identify key financial and operational risks and implement mitigation strategies.
Oversee legal matters related to the Society's financial assets.
Maintain robust internal controls and ensure full regulatory compliance.
Review insurance cover and ensure audit readiness.
Lead the relationship with external auditors and follow up on recommendations.Funding & Cash Management
Lead cash flow management and financial forecasting.
Arrange financing and third‑party funding as required.
Oversee investment portfolios and protect the Society's funds.Stakeholder & Third-Party Management
Build strong relationships with banks, investment advisers and insurers.
Represent the Society in financial and legal matters.
Monitor and report third‑party performance to the Board.What you'll need to succeed
Qualifications & Experience
ACA/ACCA/CIMA (or equivalent) qualification.
Minimum seven years' progressive experience, ideally within a not‑for‑profit environment or SME.
At least three years at CFO or Finance Director level (exceptional Financial Controllers will be considered).
Proven experience working with Boards and executive leadership.
Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
A collaborative approach with the ability to support and influence non‑finance colleagues.
A broad understanding of organisational performance beyond finance.Key Skills
Strategic planning and organisational vision.
Financial strategy, modelling and planning.
Strong budgeting, forecasting and analytical skills.
Experience improving systems and processes.
Commercial acumen and sound financial judgement.
Team leadership and cross‑functional collaboration.
Ability to review and interpret legal documentation.
Acts as a trusted partner and sounding board to the CEO.Soft Skills
Approachable, personable and easy‑going style.
A sense of humour and ability to build rapport.
Intelligent, confident and clear‑thinking.What you'll get in return
This is a wide‑ranging and high‑impact role that offers the opportunity to make a genuine difference within an established and values‑led organisation. For an ambitious, proactive finance leader who enjoys a varied remit and strategic influence, this is an exceptional career opportunity.If you're looking for a meaningful leadership position within a supportive and forward‑thinking organisation, we would welcome a conversation. This role offers an attractive salary, private healthcare, an attractive pension scheme and working with a fantastic bunch of people who truly love what they do!
What you need to do now
If you're interested in this role, click 'apply now' to forward an up-to-date copy of your CV, or call us now for an informal and completely private and confidential conversation.
If this job isn't quite right for you, but you are looking for a new position, please contact us for a confidential discussion about your career.
Hays Specialist Recruitment Limited acts as an employment agency for permanent recruitment and employment business for the supply of temporary workers. By applying for this job you accept the T&C's, Privacy Policy and Disclaimers which can be found at (url removed)