Head of Finance

DeadlineThe deadline for applications is the 9th of NovemberWhat we doAlma Economics combines unparalleled analytical expertise with the ability to communicate complex ideas clearly.We are a team of economists, social researchers, data scientists, developers and creatives working together on critical issues facing our society today. Our work spans multiple policy areas, including education, health and social care, housing and homelessness, the environment, public finance, and international development, among others.Our diverse staff combine decades of experience in economic and social research at the highest levels with the ability to develop state-of-the-art tech tools and powerful communications.We work with some of the most forward-thinking organisations in the voluntary, public, and private sectors. Our clients include most UK government departments, the Welsh Government, the Scottish Government, councils across the country, arms-length bodies, and several leading charities.Internationally, we work with major supranational organisations including the World Bank, UNICEF, the WHO, the OECD, and the European Commission, as well as a number of national governments in Europe, Africa, the Middle East and Asia.Who we want to work withWe’re looking for a Head of Finance who can take ownership and lead our accounting, financial control, and reporting functions, while helping shape the strategic direction of our growing business across all our locations in Greece and the UK. You’ll thrive in a fast-paced environment with robust processes and forward-looking financial planning and business partnering. This role offers the opportunity to make a real impact in the structure and workflow of the finance and accounting function building high-performing teams, streamlining operations, and enabling data-driven decision making and growth.This role will report directly to the CFO and will partner closely with leadership across different departments, and external stakeholders to turn financial data into actionable insights, develop budgets and forecasts, and ensure compliance with regulatory requirements. You’ll manage accounting activities, and financial controls while driving process improvements, automation, and scalable systems that support the business.The ideal candidate is a hands-on, results-oriented leader who can focus on both strategy and execution. You’re motivated by impact and passionate about developing teams and processes that make finance a true driver of business growth. If you are looking to help us build and shape our finance team and work with an impact driven team, we want to meet you.Key ResponsibilitiesFinancial control and complianceLiaise, collaborate and ensure compliance with external partners and requirements (auditors, tax advisors, fundings, regulations etc).Lead the definition, implementation and maintenance of quality, risk and internal control frameworks for finance and administration.Safeguard adherence to accounting policies, regulatory requirements and risk management standards for finance and administration across the organisation.Notify and report to senior management on critical trends, regulatory risks, and issues affecting the organisation’s financial performance; advise on corrective actions.Accounting & reportingOwn and coordinate the preparation and timely submission of internal financial statements, management summaries and financial management reports.Ensure the accuracy and integrity of the organisation’s financial records and ledgers.Manage accounting processes including month-end, quarter-end and year-end close, reconciliations and accounting policy application (IFRS/local GAAP as applicable).Evaluate financial reporting systems and accounting procedures; recommend and implement changes to procedures, operating systems and control functions to improve accuracy, timeliness and scalability.Oversee payments, procurement controls and purchasing processes to ensure proper approvals, segregation of duties and compliance with policy.Manage treasury activities, cash flow forecasting and working capital optimisation where applicable.Lead and oversee a seamless and compliant payroll process.Planning, budgeting & forecastingCoordinate and lead the financial planning and budget process (annual budgets, grant/contract budgets, rolling forecasts and long-term plans).Prepare, review and correct estimates; monitor budget vs actual performance and deliver variance analysis and actionable recommendations.Oversee the organisation’s budget in grants and contracts—ensure funder requirements are reflected in budgets, properly tracked and reported.Produce cost–benefit analyses, scenario modelling and financial insight to support strategy, investments and resource allocation.Contribute to the development and delivery of medium- and long-term financial objectives and support leadership with financial advice on strategic initiatives.Leadership & peopleLead the team and support in defining the future structure of the function.Provide mentorship, performance management and professional development to strengthen team accountability and effectiveness.Foster a culture of collaboration, continuous improvement and high performance across finance and administration.Act as the primary finance liaison between the organisation and external finance partners.Promote change management and adoption of improved processes, systems and controls across the organisation.RequirementsEssential:University-level degree preferably in finance, accounting and any related field.Substantial previous experience in a relevant senior role.Very good English working level.Good knowledge of international accounting standards, legal frameworks relevant to finance and accounting, and tax regulations.Expertise in statutory reporting, payroll compliance, and international accounting standards (IFRS).Ability to balance strategic vision with operational execution.Knowledge of financial, accounting and auditing procedures to work with service providers.Desirable:Professional accounting qualification (CPA, ACCA, ACA, CMA, CFA) or equivalent.MBA or master’s degree in finance/business is an advantage.Previous experience with Pylon accounting software and Epsilon Net business payroll.Working arrangementsYou will have the opportunity to make a significant contribution to the work we do from day one.Alma Economics is a friendly and informal place, and our offices are designed for both work and play. Our team consists of enthusiastic and talented individuals, who love learning and are always ready to support others.We do not have a one-size-fits-all WfH policy. Most staff members work from home for one or two days during a typical week, while it is also possible to arrange to WfH for more extended periods (e.g., 2-4 weeks) to visit family or travel.While most staff work 5-day weeks, for most full-time positions we also offer the option of a 4-day working week, either from day one or as an arrangement employees can transition into later in their Alma career.Our offices can accommodate disabled access, and we are committed to providing all necessary support to colleagues that require it, but we are also happy to consider remote working arrangements for applicants with disabilities or health conditions that prevent them from working on-site.We welcome candidates from all backgrounds and ensure that no one receives less favourable treatment on the grounds of age, gender, sexual orientation, disability or physical condition, marital status, race, or religion.Check out more employment opportunities at Alma Economics and our tips for applicants here