The Finance Manager will play a pivotal role in ensuring efficient, effective, and sustainable financial management for the Scottish Pantry Network and its Subsidiary, aligned with its mission to promote food security and provide member support across Scotland. This role includes managing day-to-day financial operations, ensuring strong financial governance, and developing strategies that contribute to the long-term sustainability of the Network.

Reporting to the CEO, the Finance Manager will be responsible for ensuring that all financial processes support the organisation’s growth and impact within local communities.

Key Responsibilities

1. Financial Management

• Prepare year-end financial statements in line with charity regulations.
• Assist external auditors with annual audits and provide all required financial documents.
• Develop and manage annual core and project budgets that align with the Network’s strategic goals.
• Produce monthly management accounts and financial reports for funders and the Board.
• Oversee payroll calculations and maintain payroll records for all staff.
• Administer day-to-day financial operations, ensuring accuracy and compliance.
• Lead financial planning and forecasting efforts to support the Network’s strategic plan.
• Regularly report on the financial position of the organisation to the Board, funding partners, and other stakeholders.

2. Contracts and Procurement

• Review and manage all external contracts to ensure cost efficiency and service quality.
• Oversee procurement processes, ensuring that they adhere to good practice and are resource-efficient.

3. Corporate Governance

• Attend regular Management and Board meetings, providing financial insights and recommendations.
• Prepare verbal and written financial reports for the Chief Executive and Board of Trustees.
• Ensure compliance with OSCR, Companies House, and other relevant regulatory bodies, ensuring timely submissions of required reports.

4. Strategic Planning

• Lead the development and implementation of financial strategies that support the long-term sustainability and growth of the Scottish Pantry Network.
• Collaborate on the creation of funding bids and grant applications, providing financial expertise and budgetary input.
• Develop and update financial policies and procedures to ensure transparency and accountability throughout the organisation.

5. General Duties

• Line-manage the Policy Officer and provide oversight of financial training and development.
• Contribute to organisational impact by identifying opportunities for process improvements and cost-saving measures.
• Support the management team by analysing financial data for strategic decision-making.
• Play an active role in risk management, advising the CEO on potential financial risks and mitigation strategies.
• Uphold and promote the values of the Scottish Pantry Network, promoting a team-oriented environment and supporting collaboration with external partners.

Main Working Contacts

• Internal: Chief Executive, Operations manager, Scottish Pantry Network Board, Staff, and Volunteers
• External: Contractors, Funders, Auditors, Partner Organisations, and Local Authorities

Person Specification

Essential Criteria

Qualifications:

• Degree in accounting or a related discipline
• Five years of experience, including two years at a senior level

Knowledge and Experience:

• Proven experience managing annual audits and payroll
• Strong knowledge of financial management within the charity or third sector
• Experience leading and managing financial teams or staff

Skills and Abilities:

• Proficiency in accounting software (Sage or similar) and advanced Microsoft Excel skills
• Excellent communication skills, both verbal and written
• Ability to work independently, take initiative, and manage multiple projects

Desirable Criteria

Qualifications:

• Professional accounting qualification (CIMA, ICAS, CIPFA)

Knowledge and Experience:

• Previous experience working within the voluntary or food security sector
• Track record of securing funding and experience in developing business plans
• Familiarity with contract management and regulatory compliance

Additional Requirements

• Satisfactory Disclosure check