Head of Finance & Operations

Description

Do you want to be part of making a difference to, and supporting, the voluntary, community and social enterprise (VCSE) sector across Hampshire?

Action Hampshire works with communities across Hampshire and beyond on innovative, impactful, asset-based projects. We support communities to have their voices heard and to take action together. We support and partner with a range of voluntary community and social enterprise organisations to help make great things happen. We celebrate diversity and challenge inequalities.

Role Overview:

We are seeking a values-led finance and operations professional to lead on our finance and operations systems at Action Hampshire. In this senior leadership role, you will guide the finance team, support strategic objectives, and influence decision-making processes at our organization. Your expertise in charity finance operations will be crucial to informing the Senior Leadership Team and guiding the finance team to ensure our compliance and adherence to financial planning, budgeting and reporting.

Financial responsibilities

• Oversee the development of the annual budget in collaboration with the finance team and project budget leads.
• Ensure the proposed budget aligns with strategic objectives and present it to the Senior Leadership Team and the Board of Trustees.
• Monitor income and expenditure against the budget, analyse variances, and provide actionable proposals as required.
• Conduct cash flow forecasting and manage the organization's funds, ensuring sustainability and full cost recovery.
• Ensure compliance with VAT and HMRC regulations while managing relationships with external accounting support.

Operations Responsibilities

• Manage contracts crucial to organizational operations, including IT and insurance contracts
• Review and approve funding contracts and grant agreements, ensuring alignment with organizational goals
• Stay informed about VCSE operational best practices, and recommend improvements based on data analysis
• Ensure policies and procedures are up-to-date and compliant, advising the Senior Leadership Team on legislation pertinent to VCSE organizations
• Oversee the management of resources, equipment, and facilities, ensuring effective operational support for the team
• Lead health and safety initiatives in compliance with relevant legislation, including risk assessments and safeguarding oversight

Senior Leadership:

• Act as a key member of the Senior Leadership Team, contributing to a positive, inclusive culture and embodying Action Hampshire’s values
• Oversee the internal finance function, keeping the CEO and Senior Leadership Team informed about financial matters
• Collaborate on delivering the charity's strategy, particularly in reviewing internal finance processes and enhancing operational efficiency
• Share collective responsibility for the organization’s goals, objectives, and culture with leadership colleagues and Trustees

Who You Are:

• Proven experience in charity finance and operations management.
• Strong leadership, coaching, and team management skills
• Excellent understanding of financial compliance and operational best practices for VCSE organizations
• Ability to convey complex information effectively to internal and external stakeholders
• A commitment to fostering a positive team culture and supporting the professional growth of others
• Be committed to Action Hampshire’s values and have an understanding of and an empathy with the culture and values of the VCSE sector.

What We Offer:

• Flexible working
• Inclusive and supportive culture
• Opportunities for professional development and training
• Other benefits include: Pension scheme, reward scheme, cycle to work scheme, confidential employee assistance programme

Additional Information:

Hours: 21 hours (3 days/FTE)

Contract: 1-year fixed term contract with possibility of extension

Location: Hybrid; primarily home working with some travel throughout Hampshire

Closing date:  9:00 am, Thursday, 9 July 2026

In-person interview:  Monday, 20 July in Eastleigh, Hampshire

 

How To Apply

Action Hampshire is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. We encourage applications from people of all backgrounds and experiences. If you are passionate about this role and what we do, we would love to hear from you. If you think you have the skills for this role, but don’t necessarily have all the essential requirements listed, please apply anyway, stating clearly in your covering letter how you think you can fulfil the role.

To apply please click the link to complete our application form which includes space to upload your CV and cover letter. In your cover letter, you should outline experience in relation to the person specification and role responsibilities.

For an informal conversation about this role, please contact:
Nicky Judd, Chief Executive Officer - nicky.judd@actionhampshire.org / 01962 679336
Claire Vincent, Head of People - claire.vincent@actionhampshire.org / 01962 674919

For any other enquiries, please contact the Action Hampshire team - info@actionhampshire.org