Job Description

Evenlode Landscape Recovery Ltd (ELR) is the Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV) established by the North East Cotswold Farmer Cluster CIC (NECFC) to oversee and deliver the Evenlode Landscape Recovery project--one of England's flagship farmer-led environmental land management initiatives supported by DEFRA and a range of private investors and supports. The company works in partnership with farmers, landowners, and conservation bodies to pioneer landscape-scale nature recovery, climate resilience, and regenerative land use across the Evenlode catchment in the Cotswolds.

We are a small but growing organisation at the heart of a bold, long-term programme. We're now seeking a capable and conscientious Financial Controller to join our delivery team, strengthen our financial systems, and provide oversight on all company finances.

The Financial Controller (FC) will play a pivotal role in ensuring the financial health and regulatory compliance of ELR Ltd. Reporting directly to the Board and working closely with the Programme Director and Project Manager, the FC will manage bookkeeping, management accounting, budgeting, financial reporting, compliance, payments and risk management to support the strategic and operational goals of the organisation.

Key Responsibilities

Financial Reporting:

Prepare and present accurate, timely financial statements (income statements, balance sheets, and cash flow reports) for the board and funders.

Budgeting & Forecasting:

Lead the preparation and management of monthly management accounts, annual budgets, project forecasts in alignment with DEFRA funding and project timelines.

Cash Flow & Treasury Management:

Maintain cash flow projections and monitor bank balances to ensure smooth financial operations and sound cash management.

Cost Control & Financial Performance:

Identify cost-saving opportunities and ensure resources are used efficiently. Monitor project expenditure and recommend corrective actions where necessary.

Accounting Systems & Processes:

Maintain and improve accounting systems (e.g. Xero or equivalent), ensuring all transactions are recorded accurately and in line with accounting standards and funders' requirements

Tax & Statutory Compliance:

Ensure full compliance with UK tax obligations, including preparation and submission of VAT returns, annual accounts, and liaison with HMRC and Companies House.

Risk Management & Governance:

Implement and maintain financial controls, fraud prevention measures, and insurance coverage. Support the Board in managing financial risk.
This role would suit a qualified accountant (ACA, ACCA, CIMA or equivalent) with a strong sense of ownership and a pragmatic, hands-on approach. You'll likely have experience supporting small companies or charities and be comfortable operating both strategically and operationally. Experience with grant funding, project reporting, or working with government programmes is a bonus.

Essential Requirements

Recognised accounting qualification (ACA, ACCA, CIMA or similar) Proven experience in financial reporting, budgeting, and compliance Familiarity with SME accounting practices Strong attention to detail and organisational skills Excellent communication and the ability to present financials to non-financial colleagues Proficiency with accounting software (e.g. Xero - preferred)

Desirable

Experience with DEFRA or other government department publicly funded programmes Understanding of environmental, rural or conservation organisations Experience setting up financial systems for early-stage organisations or SPVs

How to Apply

Please submit your CV and covering message explaining your interest in the role and availability via Indeed. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: From 50,000.00 per year

Schedule:

Monday to Friday
Application question(s):

Hybrid working however must be available for frequent London and Oxfordshire-based meetings.
Work Location: Hybrid remote in United Kingdom, OX7 5BH

Reference ID: ELR1