Financial Controller

As the deputy to the Director of Finance, the Financial Controller is a key finance leadership role responsible for the financial integrity of the organisations finances.  Leading on the financial reporting, forecasting and budgeting for the DBF, Coventry Cathedral and Together for Change, this role will ensure compliance with Charity, Company and Ecclesiastical legislation. Leading and guiding a team, fostering a culture of continuous improvement.

Main Activities and Duties 

1. Reporting, Budgeting, Financial Management, Accounting processes and systems

• Overall responsibility for the production of the DBF monthly management accounts to budget holders by working day 8. Ensure that monthly reviews with budget holders take place; to monitor financial performance & recommend corrective action to budget holders when needed. Provide training & development opportunities to budget holders.
• Working with the Director of Finance to prepare  financial reports and commentary for the various  diocesan committees.
• Preparation of the annual report and financial statements for the DBF. Ensuring compliance with accounting standards & regulations. Liaise with auditors during the external audit ensuring all reports and supporting documentation are available.
• Develop & manage the annual budget for the DBF; in collaboration with budget holders. Provide financial forecasts & analysis to support strategic decision making.
• Maintain accurate records of all funds, ensuring proper allocation & usage. Preparation & submission of timely & accurate financial reports to donors & budget holders of these funds. Monitor & report on restricted & unrestricted funds.
• Lead change management initiatives to improve financial processes & systems. Identify opportunities for process improvement & implement best practices throughout all three organisations. Engage with stakeholders to ensure successful adoption of changes. Monitor & evaluate the impact of changes on financial operations.
• Implement & maintain robust internal controls. Ensure compliance with financial policies & procedures. Conduct regular reviews and audits of financial processes.
• Oversee the calculation, collection & reporting of Parish Share contributions. Ensure accurate & transparent reporting for the Deanery Share allocations. Communicate with parishes to provide guidance & support on Parish Share matters.

2. Leadership

• To provide leadership and clear direction to the team ensuring appraisals with SMART objectives that form the basis of regular monthly meetings reviewing individual and team performance. 
• Working closely with the Director of Finance providing regular updates on the finances of each of organisations that the finance team supports.
• To attend training courses and events to maintain the professional accountancy qualification and competency to ensure that the post holder is aware of best practice and upcoming developments affecting the DBF, Cathedral and TFC.
• Developing relationships with budget holders to understand the drivers for expenditure, proactively providing advice and guidance to build commercial awareness.
• Providing advice and support to parishes on basic queries relating to finance and charity reporting matters.  Using the data available in the department from Parish Finance returns and accounts to understand the impact of the financial health of the parishes on the DBF.
• To deputise for the Director of Finance