Head of Financial Control

Job description

At National Star, we are dedicated to enabling people with disabilities to realise their full potential. Over the past 15 years, our charity has grown significantly – from £15 million to over £40 million in annual income – and now operates a broad range of education, care and health services across Gloucestershire and beyond. We employ over 1,300 staff and are proud of our reputation as a leader in innovative and life-changing support.

We are now seeking an experienced and technically proficient Head of Financial Control to join our finance team and play a critical role in safeguarding the financial sustainability and integrity of our organisation.

About the role

This senior role is responsible for ensuring strong financial control, regulatory compliance, and the accurate and timely reporting of financial information. You will lead on statutory financial reporting, audit, treasury management and tax compliance, supporting the organisation’s strategic and operational decision-making.

Working closely with the Director of Finance and key internal and external stakeholders, your work will ensure the charity’s financial integrity, transparency, and efficiency and will directly support National Star’s ability to deliver high-quality services to those who need them most.

We are not standing still and key to this role will be a drive for change, challenging existing systems and controls to ensure that the organisation is using best practice to minimise risk whilst shaping and strengthening our financial systems at a time of growth and innovation.

About you

We are looking for a highly capable, qualified finance professional who combines strong technical expertise with a values-driven approach to leadership.

You will have:

•         Demonstrable experience in a senior financial control or financial reporting role, ideally within the charity, education, or care sectors.

•         In-depth knowledge of financial compliance, VAT, and charity accounting standards.

•         Excellent communication skills, with the confidence to advise senior stakeholders and influence decision-making.

•         Strong leadership skills, with the ability to manage a team and collaborate across departments.

•         A proactive and solutions-focused mindset, with a commitment to continuous improvement.

•         A values-led mindset and genuine commitment to the mission and purpose of National Star.

Why Work with Us?

Joining National Star means becoming part of an organisation that is making a tangible difference in people’s lives every single day. You will be supported by a dedicated team and have the opportunity to shape and strengthen our financial systems at a time of growth and innovation.

Apply today

If you are seeking a role that combines technical challenge with social impact, we invite you to bring your expertise to National Star and help shape our future.

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About us

National Star is a growing charity with more than 1,200 staff based in England and Wales. Established more than 50 years ago, we’ve supported hundreds of young people with disabilities to achieve their potential.

How we will reward you

Our Golden Hello

It’s motivating to feel valued at work. That’s why all new staff will receive a ‘Golden Hello’ up to the value of £250 for full-time staff (pro-rata for part-time employees) upon successful completion of their probation.

Staff benefits

Fantastic career development opportunities and comprehensive induction programme - theory and practical

Staff minibus from Cheltenham and Gloucester to our Ullenwood site Monday to Friday.

Award-winning training

Use of fitness suite and swimming pool and staff clubs.

Westfield medical cover

Life insurance cover

Employee helpline

Contributory pension scheme

Opportunity to purchase a TOTUM discount card

Employee discounts at attractions, high street retailers, supermarkets, utilities and motoring, plus much more