The OrganisationThe Greatham Foundation is a long-established and financially robust charitable organisation based in Greatham, Hartlepool. With a legacy spanning over 750 years and a £52 million balance sheet—primarily composed of property and investments—the Foundation is entering an exciting phase of strategic evolution.We deliver a unique blend of services, including:

• Residential and community-based dementia care
• Housing (alms houses and private rentals)
• Grant-making to voluntary and community organisations across the North East

With a permanent endowment and a total return order in place, the Foundation is well-positioned to deliver its charitable mission and adapt to the evolving needs of the communities it serves.The RoleFollowing a successful period of transformation and stabilisation over the past seven years, the Foundation is seeking a new Head of Finance to succeed the current postholder who is retiring. This is a rare opportunity to shape the future of a historic organisation and continue its journey of modernisation and growth.

• Contribute to the development and implementation of the charity’s strategic plan, with a particular focus on financial strategy and sustainability.
• Take overall responsibility for the charity’s finance function, ensuring timely and accurate execution of day-to-day financial operations, including financial records and payroll.
• Act as the lead contact for the charity’s investment portfolio, liaising with external investment managers to ensure effective stewardship.
• Oversee the preparation of annual financial accounts and coordinate with external auditors.
• Lead the annual budgeting process in collaboration with senior leaders and service managers.
• Serve as the primary point of contact for all matters relating to the Greatham Hospital Pension Scheme.
• Strengthen and maintain robust financial systems, controls, and policies to support the charity’s operations and compliance.

The Person

• Professionally qualified accountant (e.g. ICAEW, ICAS, ACCA, CIMA).
• Proven experience in a senior finance leadership role, ideally within a charity but not essential.
• Strong strategic planning skills, with the ability to develop and implement financial strategies that drive improvement.
• Demonstrated experience in implementing, developing, and managing financial and business information systems.
• Skilled in leading and managing budgeting and financial reporting processes.
• Proficient in Excel-based data analytics for extracting, analysing, interpreting, and presenting financial information.
• Experience in directing, managing, and motivating a finance team to achieve high performance.
• Alignment with the Foundation’s values and mission, with a commitment to its charitable purpose.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to work effectively across the organisation and with external stakeholder's.
• Resilient and tenacious, with the ability to thrive in a demanding and evolving environment.
• Positive outlook and strategic mindset.
• Collaborative team player, contributing as a key member of the Senior Leadership Team.

Benefits

• 35 hours per week, full time requirement
• Flexible working arrangements
• 38 days holiday, inclusive of bank holidays.
• Access to a 24/7 Employee Assistance Programme and wellbeing app.
• Annual pay review subject to the charity’s financial performance.
• Business mileage reimbursement.   
• Workplace pension scheme, with 10% employer contribution.