Job Summary: Strategic CFO (Charitable Foundation)

Page Executive is recruiting for a Chief Finance Officer to join a high-impact charitable foundation based in Croydon. This is a rare, senior-level part-time (3 days per week) opportunity designed for a “Strategic CFO” who can balance meticulous financial governance with a vision for growth and social impact. You will lead a dedicated finance team and act as a key advisor to the Board, ensuring the foundation’s assets are optimized to support its philanthropic missions.

Requirements and Skills

Professional Qualification: You must be a fully qualified accountant (ACA, ACCA, CIMA, or CIPFA).
Leadership Experience: Proven track record as a “seasoned leader,” capable of managing and developing a finance team within a complex organizational structure.
Sector Knowledge: Experience within the Charity, Education, or Not-for-Profit sectors is highly advantageous, especially regarding restricted/unrestricted funds and charity SORP.
Strategic Communication: The ability to translate complex financial data into actionable strategy for non-financial stakeholders and board members.
Commercial Acumen: A mindset focused on “Growth & Impact”—looking beyond the balance sheet to see how financial strategy can drive the foundation’s broader goals.

Role Overview

As the CFO, you hold the keys to the foundation’s financial health and strategic future. Working on a 3-day-a-week basis, you will oversee the entirety of the financial management function. This isn’t just about oversight; it’s about developing a strategic financial direction that ensures long-term sustainability. You will manage the investment strategy, lead on audit and compliance, and foster a culture of transparency. Your role is pivotal in ensuring every pound managed by the foundation creates the maximum possible impact for the Croydon community and beyond.

Key Responsibilities

Strategic Direction: Develop and implement a long-term financial strategy that aligns with the foundation’s mission of growth and social impact.
Team Leadership: Manage and mentor the finance department, ensuring high standards of accuracy and professional development.
Stakeholder Engagement: Act as the primary financial liaison for the Board of Trustees, providing clear, high-level reporting and guidance.
Financial Oversight: Ensure robust internal controls, manage budgeting/forecasting, and oversee the year-end audit process.
Investment & Asset Management: Monitor the foundation’s portfolio to ensure optimal returns within an acceptable risk framework.

Salary and Premium Benefits

Salary: £135,000 – £150,000 per annum (Full-Time Equivalent—please note this will be pro-rated for 3 days).
Schedule: Part-time (3 days per week).
Education Perk: School fee discounts (highly valuable for candidates with families, often associated with foundation-linked educational institutions).
Retirement: Comprehensive pension scheme.
Location: Croydon-based with the prestige of a charitable foundation environment.

Application Tip: The “Impact” Narrative

Peer Note: In the charitable sector, the “Strategic CFO” is expected to be more than a bean counter. In your application, focus on Financial Resilience. Mention how you have previously diversified income streams or optimized an endowment to protect a mission during economic volatility. The mention of “school fee discounts” suggests this foundation may have ties to an educational trust—highlighting any Education sector experience will be a significant advantage.

To apply for Company Website talents.studysmarter.co.uk.