Head of Finance

Company Details Skylarks is a local charity supporting children and young people with additional needs and disabilities, and their families, to thrive. Based in Richmond upon Thames and Hounslow, we have an open-door policy and welcome families from across England. We support over 8,000 children and young people and deliver more than 10,000 activities and services each year. Our free services include after-school and holiday activities, therapies, employment support for young people, parental training and support groups. Through compassion, inclusion, empowerment and community, we help reduce isolation, build confidence, remove barriers and equip children and young people with the skills they need to develop independence and reach their full potential. Role Description Role: Head of Finance Hours: 15 hours per week Salary: £39,000 per annum, pro rata Location: Hybrid – home, Richmond and Hounslow Application deadline: Thursday 12 November 2026, midnight The Head of Finance is a flexible, hands-on leadership role working 15 hours per week on a hybrid basis across home, Richmond and Hounslow. Reporting to the Managing Director, you will join Skylarks' Senior Leadership Team, overseeing financial management, strategy and governance to support the charity's long-term sustainability. You will manage day-to-day accounts, budgeting, forecasting, cash flow, banking and financial controls, while monitoring reserves and restricted funds. You will lead statutory reporting and the annual audit, ensure compliance with charity regulations and SORP, and oversee our outsourced payroll provider. Working closely with colleagues and trustees, you will provide clear financial insights, strengthen systems and ensure charitable funds are used effectively to support children and families. Qualifications and Experience

• Professional finance credentials: An accountancy qualification, such as ACCA or CIMA, or equivalent senior-level experience.
• Core accounting: Strong experience in management accounting, bookkeeping, month-end and year-end processes, and financial reporting.
• Financial planning and operations: Proven skills in budgeting, reforecasting, cash flow forecasting, online banking, payment controls and financial process improvement.
• Financial leadership and governance: Ability to contribute to strategic planning, financial risk management and the charity's long-term sustainability.
• Communication and collaboration: Ability to explain financial information clearly to non-finance colleagues and work effectively across teams.
• Integrity and attention to detail: A commitment to accurate, transparent financial management and responsible stewardship of charitable funds.
• Charity finance knowledge: Understanding of charity SORP, fund accounting and relevant regulatory requirements is desirable.
• Board reporting: Experience presenting financial performance, strategic insights and reports to trustees is desirable.
• Fundraising finance: Knowledge of grant reporting and experience monitoring restricted funds, grant income and fundraising revenue is desirable. Interested? Find out more in the recruitment pack and apply by emailing your CV and supporting statement to recruit@skylarks.charity.