Finance Manager

INTRODUCTION

Applications are invited for the appointment of a Finance Manager for Middletown Centre for Autism.

Contents of the Pack

Prior to completing the application form, applicants should familiarise themselves with the contents of the information pack which includes:

Section 1:

· Finance Manager Job Description

Section 2:

· Job Description and Personnel Specification

Section 3:

· Terms & Conditions of Appointment

Please see additional information about the Centre and our training support services (provided under separate cover), along with guidance material on completing the application form & Monitoring Form, and the selection process.

Return of Application Forms

Complete your application form through the online GetGot portal which can be accessed via the Careers page on our website www.middletownautism.com.

Please follow the instructions to complete and return through this online portal.

Queries

Any queries related to this recruitment campaign may be e-mailed to [email protected]

Closing Date

All completed applications must be received by the closing date of Monday 19th October at 4:00pm.

It is the candidate’s responsibility to ensure their application form has been received by this time.

SECTION 1

JOB DESCRIPTION

Job Title: Finance Manager

Reporting To: Head of Finance and Corporate Services

Responsible For: Finance staff as designated.

Location: Middletown Centre for Autism (Hybrid Working Policy)

Job Purpose

The Finance Manager will support the Head of Finance and Corporate Services in effective leadership, management and continuous improvement of the Finance Function within Middletown Centre for Autism.

The postholder will be responsible for ensuring the effective management of the Centre's financial resources through the provision of accurate financial reporting, robust financial controls, sound financial planning and high standards of financial governance and accountability.

The Finance Manager will lead the delivery of management accounting, budget monitoring, financial forecasting, payroll oversight, financial reporting, audit coordination and regulatory compliance activities. The postholder will provide professional financial advice and support to managers across the organisation and contribute to strategic planning, organisational development and informed decision-making.

Main Duties and Responsibilities

Financial Management

• Lead the day-to-day operation of the Finance Function.
• Ensure the accurate processing, recording and reporting of financial transactions.
• Prepare monthly management accounts and financial reports for the Head of Finance and Corporate Services.
• Monitor organisational income and expenditure and ensure compliance with approved budgets.
• Maintain effective financial controls and procedures to safeguard organisational resources.
• Support the preparation of annual statutory accounts and financial statements.
• Ensure compliance with accounting standards, financial regulations and organisational policies.

Budget Management and Financial Planning

• Support the annual budget-setting process across the organisation.
• Work collaboratively with budget holders to prepare, monitor and manage budgets.
• Produce financial forecasts, budget monitoring reports and variance analyses.
• Provide financial analysis and advice to support operational and strategic decision-making.
• Assist in the development of business cases, investment appraisals and financial modelling.
• Contribute to the organisation's strategic and operational planning processes.

Financial Reporting

• Prepare accurate and timely financial reports for the Senior Leadership Team, Board and Committees.
• Analyse financial performance and identify risks, opportunities and emerging trends.
• Ensure the integrity, accuracy and reliability of financial information and management reporting.
• Prepare financial returns and information required by funding bodies and regulatory authorities.

Audit, Governance and Compliance

• Coordinate internal and external audit activities.
• Act as a key liaison with auditors and support the implementation of audit recommendations.
• Assist in the development, review and implementation of financial policies and procedures.
• Ensure compliance with financial regulations, procurement requirements and governance frameworks.
• Support the organisation's risk management arrangements in relation to financial matters.
• Promote best practice in financial governance, accountability and value for money.

Payroll, Pensions and Taxation

• Oversee payroll administration and associated financial controls.
• Ensure compliance with payroll, pension and taxation legislation and requirements.
• Monitor payroll expenditure and complete relevant reconciliations.
• Liaise with pension administrators, payroll providers and regulatory bodies as required.

Financial Systems

• Maintain and develop financial management and reporting systems.
• Support the effective operation of Sage 200, Sage Payroll, COLSOFT and other relevant financial management systems.
• Ensure the integrity, security and accuracy of financial data.
• Identify opportunities for system enhancement, automation and continuous improvement.

Procurement and Contract Management

• Support compliance with procurement legislation, policies and procedures.
• Provide advice and guidance to managers on procurement processes and value-for-money principles.
• Monitor procurement activity and support contract management arrangements as required.
• Contribute to the development of effective procurement practices and controls.

People Management

• Provide effective leadership, management, mentoring and professional support to finance staff, fostering a culture of teamwork, continuous improvement, accountability and high performance.
• Manage staff performance, attendance and development in accordance with organisational policies and procedures.
• Support staff learning and development through coaching, supervision and performance review processes.
• Plan and allocate workloads to ensure service objectives are achieved.

Communication and Stakeholder Management

• Develop and maintain effective working relationships with managers, auditors, funding bodies and other key stakeholders.
• Present complex financial information clearly to both financial and non-financial audiences.
• Provide professional financial advice and guidance to managers across the organisation.
• Promote a responsive, customer-focused and professional finance service.

General Responsibilities

• Comply with all Centre policies, procedures and statutory requirements.
• Uphold and promote the Centre's commitment to safeguarding, equality, diversity and inclusion.
• Maintain confidentiality and comply with GDPR and data protection legislation.
• Participate in continuous professional development activities.
• Undertake other duties commensurate with the grade and responsibilities of the post.

SECTION 2

Person Specification

Qualifications

• Membership of a recognised professional accounting body (ACA, ACCA, CIMA, CIPFA or equivalent).
• Minimum of three years' post-qualification experience in a finance management role.
• Evidence of continuing professional development.

Experience

• Experience of financial management within a public sector, publicly funded, or similarly regulated environment.
• Experience of financial planning, budgeting, forecasting, management accounting, and statutory financial reporting.
• Experience of developing and maintaining effective financial controls, governance arrangements, and risk management processes.
• Experience of managing external and internal audit processes.
• Experience of operating within procurement regulations and ensuring value for money.
• Experience of leading, managing, and developing staff.
• Experience of contributing to organisational strategic planning and decision-making through the provision of financial advice and analysis.

Knowledge and Skills

• Sound knowledge of financial management, accounting standards, governance, and risk management principles.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to interpret and communicate complex financial information.
• Excellent communication, stakeholder management, and interpersonal skills.
• Advanced ICT skills, including Microsoft Excel and financial management systems.
• Ability to prioritise workloads, meet deadlines, and work effectively on own initiative.
• Working knowledge of Sage 200

Desirable Criteria

• Experience of supporting Boards, Audit Committees, or Finance Committees.
• Experience of procurement and contract management.
• Experience of working within education, health, local government, not-for-profit, or cross-border organisations.
• Experience of leading business improvement, system development, or digital transformation projects.
• Knowledge of Northern Ireland/Republic of Ireland public sector governance arrangements.
• Working knowledge of Sage Payroll, COLSOFT, or equivalent financial management systems.

Key Competencies

• Financial Management and Governance
• Strategic Thinking and Decision Making
• Leadership and People Management
• Planning and Organising
• Communication and Influencing
• Building Collaborative Relationships
• Continuous Improvement
• Delivering Quality Results

SUMMARY OF TERMS AND CONDITIONS OF APPOINTMENT

Salary: JNC Scale Points 46-48 (£57,762 - £59,855 per annum). Salary progression will be in accordance with the Centre's pay and grading arrangements.

Hours of Work: Full-Time (37 hours per week)

Contract: Permanent

Location: Middletown Centre for Autism, Co Armagh (hybrid working)

The post holder will mainly work in Northern Ireland and Ireland when required. There may also be a requirement to travel throughout Northern Ireland and Ireland to meet the needs of the Centre.

Continuous Service: The Centre will recognise any previous service in any of the organisations included in Redundancy Payments (Continuity of Employment in Local Government, etc.) (Modification) Order (Northern Ireland) 1999. This includes any service within education.

Annual Leave: 25 days per annum, rising to 30 days after 5 years continuous service, plus public and privilege holidays (previous continuous service within education will be recognised). Pro rata for part-time work.

Pension: Middletown Centre for Autism is a member of NILGOSC pension scheme. Successful applicants are eligible to contribute to this scheme. Teachers wishing to continue contributions to the NI Teachers Superannuation Scheme may continue to do so while in employment at Middletown Centre for Autism.

Probationary Period: The post holder will normally be required to serve a six-month probationary period.

Candidates with a disability who require assistance will be facilitated upon request. Candidates who wish to receive application forms and information packs in accessible formats are requested to advise Middletown Centre for Autism of their requirements as promptly as possible, allowing for the fact that the closing date for receipt remains the same for all applicants as noted above.

Middletown Centre for Autism is an equal opportunity employer.

Pay: £57,762.00-£59,855.00 per year

Benefits:

• Company pension
• Free parking
• On-site parking
• Sick pay

Work Location: In person