Finance Manager

The Finance Manager works with the CEO and Board of Conservators (including their committees and committee chairs), with responsibility for providing effective financial management, budget reporting and financial control for the Conservators of Ashdown Forest.

Accountancy

* The role provides professional guidance and support to the CEO, Board of Conservators, and budget holders on all aspects of financial management.

* Manage the accounts of the Conservators of Ashdown Forest and support the Foundation, which has a Board of Trustees and a treasurer. This will include managing restricted and unrestricted funds, bank reconciliations, and internal recharges

* Utilise accounting systems such as SAGE or replacement systems to deliver this.

* Produce management reports quarterly or as requested.

* Work with the CEO and Senior Management Team to explore and secure appropriate projects, grants and funding from Government agencies and conservation programmes

* To provide support for the Foundation, which will be primarily responsible for the fundraising efforts for the Ashdown Forest.

Budgeting and Forecasting

Leading, planning, and compiling the annual Board budget and forecasts for the Conservators and the Trustees of the Ashdown Forest Foundation.

Presenting budgets to the Board, East Sussex County Council and Ashdown Forest Trust Trustees, and assisting with the budgets for the Foundation Trustees

Provision of accurate and timely monthly management information and forecasting to the CEO, Board, the Foundation Trustees and budget holders

Ensuring budgetary control mechanisms operate successfully

End of Year Accounts for CoAF and the Foundation

Producing the mid-year and annual reports and accounts in a timely and accurate manner in line with applicable accounting standards and regulations

Liaising with internal and external auditors

External Relations

Ensure contact with Board, Conservators, staff, banks, funders and auditors is maintained at the appropriate level.

Ensure there is efficient management and support for the part-time Finance Office Support Administrator.

Work closely with ESCC finance staff as requested

To act as contract manager for IT, telecommunications, insurance and other relevant functions.Other Financial Matters

Responsibility for the payroll of employees and administration of the pension scheme

Preparing VAT returns and other statutory returns. This includes the charity's annual return accounts and providing support in reporting for the Foundation

Daily responsibility for managing the Business Risk Register

Work with the Senior Management Team to ensure that adequate levels of insurance are in place at all times

Maintain the asset register

Develop, modernise and maintain the Board's financial systems.