Finance Project Accountant

An established and historic UK charity is seeking an experienced Finance Project Accountant professional to support a period of organisational change and increased project activity. The organisation funds and delivers community-based initiatives supporting vulnerable people across the UK and is currently implementing a new strategy, alongside strengthening its financial processes, systems and reporting. Following recent recruitment within the finance team, there is now a need for additional interim support to help progress a substantial pipeline of finance and systems-related projects. This is a hands-on role working alongside the existing finance lead, who will provide direction on priorities, but requires someone able to take ownership of delivery with minimal supervision. The Role You will take a lead role on a range of finance projects, helping to improve processes, introduce efficiencies and support the implementation of new ways of working. The work is varied and will include elements such as: Leading on discrete finance and systems projects from scoping through to delivery Supporting the development of new budgeting and reporting frameworks aligned to the organisation's strategy Improving processes across payment systems (including BACS), accounting and grants systems Working across multiple systems and datasets, using Excel to bridge and enhance reporting where needed Identifying and implementing practical improvements that are clear and workable for non-finance stakeholders Keeping the internal finance lead updated on progress while working independently on agreed deliverables The assignment is likely to be project-based, with the opportunity to define and deliver specific pieces of work rather than acting as day-to-day cover within the team. Person Specification Fully qualified accountant (ACA, ACCA, CIMA or equivalent) Strong track record in charity finance, with a good understanding of sector-specific processes and systems Demonstrable experience delivering finance projects, including systems improvements and process change Advanced Excel skills and confidence working across multiple systems Able to quickly understand existing processes and identify practical improvements Proactive, organised and solutions-focused, with the ability to take ownership of workstreams Comfortable working with a degree of autonomy, while engaging appropriately with stakeholders Contract Details Initial duration expected to be a minimum of 2-3 months Flexible time commitment (not necessarily full-time) Can be structured either as a PAYE contract or a self-employed consultancy assignment There is flexibility to scope the work into defined projects, allowing delivery in agreed "chunks" where appropriate Start date targeted for end of this week or early next week This is a well-suited opportunity for a senior interim (Finance Manager, Financial Controller or equivalent level) who enjoys project-based work and can add value quickly in a changing environment.