Sign up to access all features of our service.
  • Job search
  • Favorites
  • Create a CV
    New
  • Salaries
  • Subscriptions

Financial Controller (Maternity Cover)

£60k - £72k per annum
Full-time

About the Role

We are looking for an experienced Financial Controller to provide maternity cover for a 12 month period. This is a hands-on role responsible for maintaining the integrity and accuracy of TransitionZero's financial operations during a critical growth phase. Because you will be our sole finance person you manage end-to-end, from the administrative to the strategic.

You will oversee day-to-day finance activities, prepare budgets and management reporting, monitor project finances, and ensure compliance with charity and accounting regulations. Specific projects will include implementing new approval workflows, supporting our annual audit, and strengthening internal expense policies. You will report to our COO.

This role requires strong technical accounting skills coupled with the communication skills to partner cross-functionally in a fast-paced environment. You will work closely with the executive team to deliver accurate, timely financial information that informs strategic decisions.

Responsibilities

Financial Control & Reporting (50%)

  • Maintain and update the financial model for management and forecasting purposes , proactively flag risks and opportunities.

  • Oversee day-to-day bookkeeping including invoicing, bank reconciliation, payroll, and payment runs.

  • Prepare annual budgets and provide quarterly updates on income and expenditure against targets.

  • Manage the budget day-to-day and approve expenditure requests.

  • Produce and review monthly management reporting.

  • Monitor project budgets and provide analysis on restricted/unrestricted funding. 

Grant & Cash Management (20%)

  • Ensure all grant income and expenditure is accurately logged and reconciled.

  • Proactively manage cash flow to prevent shortfalls, and oversee debtor management.

  • Lead on developing budgets and financial reports for grant applications and reports.

Audit & Compliance (20%)


  • Lead the annual audit process, liaise with external auditors and prepare schedules and documentation, and address audit findings.

  • Implement robust financial controls, approval hierarchies, and compliance processes.

  • Ensure compliance with charity and company accounting regulations and reporting requirements.

  • Prepare statutory accounts in compliance with charity accounting standards and regulations for the Trustee Report.

  • Manage monthly payroll and correspond with HMRC as necessary; ensure compliance with statutory pay rules (e.g. SMP) and benefits in kind.

  • Manage VAT: prepare and submit quarterly VAT returns to HMRC, review VAT position, and ensure correct proportionate claiming.

Process Improvement (10%)

  • Drive initiatives to reduce manual effort through automation and process improvement.

  • Proactively identify opportunities to strengthen finance operations for scale.

About You

You take our mission personally. That means fully committing even when the picture is incomplete, delivering value incrementally and urgently, and holding yourself – and others – to a high standard. You don’t accept mediocre work, but you also don’t faff around: you’re biased towards action, and you know the difference between rigour and unnecessary process.

You're self-aware, actively giving and receiving feedback to drive continuous improvement. You prioritise high-impact actions, confident in your strengths but also aware of your growth areas. You make decisions despite uncertainty, always keeping the mission front and centre. 

You’re a subject matter expert but like to win as a team. That means collaborating effectively, pivoting quickly when the mission demands it, and staying laser-focused on what actually moves the needle. You thrive under pressure, lean into change, and bring optimism and curiosity to problems that don’t have obvious solutions.

In this role, you'll bring a pragmatic, low-bureaucracy approach to financial management. You'll implement efficient, scalable processes that enable sustainable growth without unnecessary complexity. With a sharp eye for detail and strong communication skills, you'll translate financial insights into actionable recommendations for the leadership team.

Skills & Experience

Essential

  • Qualified accountant with 4+ years of experience.

  • Proven ownership of the full finance function — comfortable being the sole finance person.

  • Strong experience managing grants-based funding — both restricted and unrestricted — including allocation, monitoring, and reporting: ideally £5m+ annual grant income.

  • Experience preparing and leading an annual audit process.

  • Solid understanding of VAT for charities, including quarterly returns and proportionate claiming

  • Proven track record of delivering accurate, timely financial reporting and forecasting.

  • Highly skilled with accounting software, financial modelling, and data analysis.

  • Proactive communicator skilled at surfacing issues and opportunities early

  • Strong relationship-builder able to translate financial concepts to non-finance audiences

  • Structured and detail-oriented, but also flexible and solution-focused

  • Comfortable working independently and managing projects end-to-end

  • Energised by the challenges of a fast-growing, mission-driven organisation

Desirable

  • Experience in the charity or non-profit sector.

  • Experience implementing financial process automation and improvements.

  • Experience with Xero specifically.

Salary & Benefits

  • Enhanced competitive pension scheme - auto-enrollment from day 1

  • 25 days annual leave (excluding UK public holidays) and additional discretionary days off such as over the festive period

  • 20 days of annual allowance to work from anywhere in the world

  • Hybrid working and core working hours model

  • Annual Allowance to set up your home office

  • Annual budget and dedicated leave time for relevant training courses

  • Enhanced gender-neutral parental leave (16 weeks fully paid)

  • Private healthcare following the successful completion of the probation period

  • Yearly team offsites

Our Commitment to Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion

Studies have shown that some people from marginalised or underrepresented groups are less likely to apply to a role unless they meet all of the hiring guidelines or qualifications. Whoever you are, even if you don't meet all of the criteria, if you can demonstrate a variety of skills and experience relevant to this role, we encourage you to apply as you might just be the candidate we hire! At TransitionZero, we're looking for people who are genuinely passionate about what they do, and we welcome all people, regardless of their background.

If you would like to discuss any reasonable adjustments to the application or hiring process that may better facilitate your participation, please contact our People Team (View email address on t.gohiring.com) for an informal chat. We will make every effort to respond to your request for assistance as soon as possible.

About us

TransitionZero is a climate tech non-profit founded in 2021. TransitionZero builds software to reduce the time to build clean energy at scale. We pioneer open-access and open-source tools that make electricity system modelling more transparent, accessible, and actionable for governments, financiers and grid operators worldwide.

Our flagship tool, Scenario Builder, enables policymakers, planners and investors to rapidly build, analyse and share energy system and electricity grid models without coding expertise or external consultants. Supported by model-ready datasets, training and market insights, our tools strengthen in-house capacity and support resilient, affordable and locally-led energy transitions.

Vacancy posted a month ago
Similar jobs that could be interesting for youBased on the Financial Controller (Maternity Cover) in London vacancy
  • £60k - £75k per annum

     ...they do and places real value on collaboration, impact, and the people they work with. They are currently seeking a Financial Controller on a maternity cover contract, so candidates available at short notice will be strongly preferred. Duties ~Maintain and develop... 
    Parental leave

    Career Moves Group

    London
    6 days ago
  • £65k - £78k per annum

     ...We have an exciting opportunity for a Financial Controller to join Moonshot, supporting our finance...  ...with access to specialist mental health cover, including coverage for partners and...  ...to mental health support. ~ Generous maternity and paternity leave: 26 weeks paid maternity... 
    Parental leave
    Permanent
    Full-time
    Immediate start

    Moonshot

    London
    19 days ago
  •  ...Opportunity: Slamcore is looking for a Financial Controller to manage the day-to-day financial...  ...Maintain and update the financial model covering revenue, COGS, gross margin, OpEx and cashflow...  ...or civil partner status, pregnancy or maternity, gender reassignment, race, colour,... 
    Parental leave
    Full-time
    Part-time
    Bank staff
    Remote
    Work from home
    Flexible hours
    3 days/week

    Slamcore

    London
    a month ago
  • £65k - £75k per annum

     ...We are seeking a highly skilled and experienced EA to join a dynamic and fast-growing financial services business in a crucial role within the Executive Office. This EA position offers an exciting opportunity for an individual who thrives in a high-energy environment and excels... 
    Parental leave
    Permanent
    On-site

    Oriel Partners

    London
    more than 2 months ago
  • £85k - £90k per annum

     ...Job description We're partnering with a leading global real estate organisation to appoint a commercially focused Financial Controller to join their London finance team on a permanent basis. This is a broad and high-profile role within a dynamic international business... 
    Suggested
    Permanent
    London
    13 days ago
  • £80k - £106k per annumEstimated
     ...An exciting high–growth consumer brand in the lifestyle space is looking for an Interim FP&A Manager / Financial Controller to support the business through a key commercial planning phase. ~ Based in: South of England (regular HQ visits near the New Forest) ~ Hybrid... 
    Daily pay
    Full-time
    Interim
    Hybrid working
    Immediate start

    Sphere Digital Recruitment

    London
    20 days ago
  • £100k per annum

     ...operates within a highly governed, regulated environment, managing a diversified portfolio with a strong focus on control, risk management, and disciplined financial reporting. As the organisation continues to strengthen its internal infrastructure and refine finance processes... 
    Full-time

    Harper May

    Covent Garden, Greater London
    20 days ago
  • £65k - £75k per annum

     ...Interim Financial Controller | Harts Group | Soho, London We are seeking an experienced and commercially minded Interim Financial Controller with strong analytical skills and hospitality experience to support our Chief Finance Officer across Harts Group on an interim... 
    Permanent
    Interim
    On-site
    Immediate start
    Monday to Friday

    Harts Group

    London
    11 days ago
  • £83k - £112k per annumEstimated
     ...Partners closely with senior leaders to provide financial insight, ensure robust financial controls, and drive continuous improvement across financial processes. Client Details Internationally renowned shipping group. Description Deliver step change across all... 
    London
    3 days ago
  • £75k per annum

     ...Financial Controller Harrow Salary up to GBP75,000 ABOUT THE ROLE: This is an office–based role partnering closely with the CEO to drive growth, profitability, and long–term enterprise value across a fast–scaling, capital–intensive multi–site business. The role... 
    Long-term contract
    On-site
    London
    18 hours ago
  • £85k - £100k per annum

     ...A great opportunity for an experienced Financial Controller to join an established Media business on a 12 month contract basis. Based in London, this role will cover all areas of finance. A great opportunity for an experienced Financial Controller to join an established... 
    Full-time

    Robert Walters

    London
    21 days ago
  • £40k per annum

     ...Location:  Central London (Hybrid) Reporting to: Head of Finance Role Overview The Financial Controller will be responsible for supporting and overseeing the Group’s accounting and financial operations, ensuring robust processes, strong financial control, accurate reporting... 
    Full-time
    Temporary
    Fixed-term contract
    Hybrid working

    Minerva Research Labs

    London
    a month ago
  • £90.99k - £97.49k per annum

     ...Manage the preparation and presentation of accurate financial reports. Oversee budgeting, forecasting, and financial planning processes...  ...Provide financial insights and recommendations to senior management. Implement and maintain robust financial controls and procedures.... 
    Temporary
    Interim

    Michael Page

    London
    17 days ago
  • £85k - £100k per annum

     ...Business Description We are delighted to be supporting a private equity backed professional services group with the appointment of a Financial Controller to work closely with the Finance Director and help support the next phase of growth. The successful candidate will operate... 
    Long-term contract
    Permanent
    Full-time

    Mature Accountants Limited

    London
    more than 2 months ago
  • £58k - £78k per annumEstimated
     ...environment – a place where people stay and where commitment is recognised and rewarded. The Role They are seeking a talented Financial Controller to take the day–to–day lead of all financial control activities across the business. As a Financial Controller, you will be... 
    Long-term contract
    Flexible hours
    London
    3 days ago
  • £75k per annum

     ...have the skills and experience we need to help achieve it, we'd love you to join our lifesaving team. We are looking for a Financial Controller to join our Finance team. Title:  Financial Controller Salary: £75,000 per annum Contract: Permanent (option for 6-... 
    Permanent
    Fixed-term contract
    Hybrid working
    On-site
    Immediate start

    Anthony Nolan

    London
    4 days ago
  • £58k - £77k per annumEstimated
     ...footprint, delivering innovative solutions to clients across multiple regions. As we scale rapidly, we are looking for an ambitious Financial Controller to join our dynamic finance team. At Q, we’re looking for people who share that vision. People like you.   The opportunity... 
    On-site

    Quantexa

    London
    3 days ago
  • £60k per annum

     ...Financial Controller - BESS A fast-scaling renewable energy organisation is seeking a Financial Controller to support the finance function, with a strong focus on accounting, financial reporting, tax compliance and internal controls. The role is primarily focused on the... 
    Permanent
    Hybrid working
    Remote

    Climate17 Ltd

    London
    3 days ago
  • £75k - £85k per annum

     ...high-growth phase. As they prepare for a strategic private equity exit in 2026, they are seeking a sharp, commercially-minded Financial Controller to join their leadership team. The organisation prides itself on a collaborative, fast-paced environment where innovation is encouraged... 
    Permanent
    Hybrid working
    On-site
    Probationary period
    Flexible hours

    Robert Half

    Hammersmith, Greater London
    22 hours ago
  • £80k - £90k per annum

     ...Mon Fri, 9am 5pm Probation Period: 6 months Job Type: Full Time, Permanent Job Location: Office Based SCOPE The Financial Controller is a senior–level responsible for overseeing financial operations, ensuring the accuracy and integrity of financial reporting,... 
    Long-term contract
    Permanent
    Full-time
    On-site
    Immediate start
    Probationary period
    Monday to Friday

    Mercury Hampton Ltd

    London
    20 days ago
  • £55k - £60k per annum

     ...Harris Hill is recruiting for a Financial Controller to work for this well–established charity based in Northwest London (Hybrid) Title: Financial Controller Reporting to: Director of Finance & Resources Management: 1 Finance staff Salary: GBP55.000pa – GBP60.000... 
    Full-time
    Hybrid working
    3 days/week

    HARRIS HILL

    London
    18 days ago
  • £375 per day

     ...Fractional Financial Controller | High-Growth SaaS Business | 3 days per week The Client Harmonic are delighted to be working with a high-growth, PE-backed SaaS business to find them a Fractional Financial Controller to support the business on a part-time basis (3 days... 
    Daily pay
    Permanent
    Temporary
    Part-time
    Hybrid working
    Immediate start
    3 days/week

    Harmonic Finance | Certified B Corp

    London
    6 days ago
  • £63k - £84k per annumEstimated
     ...FINANCIAL CONTROLLER ENFIELD (NORTH LONDON) HYBRID AVAILABLE 70,000 BASE SALARY + 5,000 CAR ALLOWANCE + BONUS + PRIVATE HEALTHCARE THE OPPORTUNITY: A well–established and fast–growing business based in Enfield is seeking an experienced Financial Controller to join... 
    Weekly pay
    Hybrid working
    Immediate start
    London
    4 days ago
  • £66k - £89k per annumEstimated
     ...Financial Controller Pinpoint Resourcing are currently working with an exciting PE backed business based near Tottenham Court Road to source a Financial Controller to join them permanently. Duties The role of the Financial Controller is to ensure that the organisation... 
    Hybrid working
    On-site
    London
    20 hours ago
  • £100k - £110k per annum

     ...Job description 6 month temp to perm role for an established Financial Controller to support a client with a new business integration. The business needs someone who can step into a partially built environment and create structure, controls and reporting from the ground up... 
    Permanent
    Temporary
    London
    21 days ago
  • £135k - £140k per annum

     ...Financial Controller | Real Estate Development | Central London (Hybrid Working) | £140,000 | Permanent Role Robert Half are recruiting for a Financial Controller to join a growing, international real estate development business on a permanent basis, based in Central London... 
    Long-term contract
    Permanent
    Hybrid working

    Robert Half

    City of London, Greater London
    10 days ago
  • £100k - £120k per annum

     ...Financial Controller | Facilities and Property Services | Central London (Hybrid Working) | £100-120,000 ⚠️ Due to business requirements, candidates must demonstrate professional fluency in French for this position. Robert Half is partnering with a leading Facilities... 
    Permanent
    Hybrid working
    On-site

    Robert Half

    City of London, Greater London
    18 days ago
  • £120k - £130k per annum

     ...Financial Controller Annual Salary: GBP125,000 Location: London (Hybrid) Job Type: Permanent We are seeking a Financial Controller...  ...this Financial Controller position, please submit your CV and cover letter detailing your relevant experience and why you are interested... 
    Permanent
    Full-time
    Hybrid working
    Shift work

    Reed

    London
    14 days ago
  • £50k - £55k per annum

    Company: BEAM RECRUIT Job Type: Permanent, Full Time Salary: £50000 - £55000/annum plus bonus
    Permanent
    Full-time

    BEAM RECRUIT

    London
    a month ago
  • £80k - £85k per annum

     ...London Duration: 12 months We are looking for an Interim Financial Controller to manage the Royal college's finance function for the new...  ...role, view our job description   Please attach your CV and Cover Letter We are passionate about creating a culture of belonging... 
    Interim
    Hybrid working
    On-site
    Work from home

    Royal College of Pharmacy

    London
    13 days ago

Do you want to receive more vacancies?

Subscribe and receive similar vacancies to Financial Controller (Maternity Cover). Be the first to apply!