Finance Officer

Reports to: Finance Manager

Location: 1 St James Street, Halifax, HX1 1YS

Hours: 20 hours per week

About Happy Days

Happy Days’ trailblazing projects providing intensive, person-centred support to people experiencing multiple disadvantage in Calderdale. This unique, trauma-informed service removes barriers for individuals who have been unable to access traditional support and who, as a result, have faced years of health inequality, food insecurity, and fuel poverty.

Many of our Service Members have experienced significant childhood trauma and are now living with the long-term effects of circumstances they could not control. The Complex Lives Service aims to offer stability, trust, and meaningful opportunities for change through compassionate and consistent support.

• People First – We value and respect every individual.
• Accountability and Collaboration – We work together, taking responsibility and learning from one another.
• Honesty and Integrity – We act with transparency and fairness in all we do.
• Passion and Perseverance – We are dedicated and determined in our mission.
• Strong and Courageous – We stand up for what’s right and face challenges with resilience.

Purpose of the Role

The Finance Officer plays a key role in ensuring the effective management of the charity’s finances. You will support the Finance Trustee in maintaining accurate financial records, preparing reports, and helping ensure that Happy Days operates sustainably and in full compliance with financial regulations.

Key Responsibilities

• Process and record all financial transactions including income, expenditure, and payroll in accordance with charity finance procedures.
• Maintain accurate ledgers and ensure timely bank reconciliations.
• Prepare monthly management accounts, variance analyses, and cashflow forecasts.
• Support the preparation of year-end accounts and assist with the annual audit process.
• Monitor budgets, ensuring spending aligns with funding requirements and charity objectives.
• Assist in the preparation of grant and donor financial reports.
• Liaise with staff and project managers to provide financial information, guidance, and support.
• Ensure compliance with charity finance regulations, internal policies, and best practices.
• Contribute to developing and improving financial systems and processes.
• Uphold the charity’s values in all aspects of the role, promoting a culture of openness, teamwork, and respect.

Person Specification

Essential

• Experience working in a finance role, ideally within the charity or non-profit sector.
• Strong understanding of bookkeeping, financial reporting, and budget monitoring.
• Excellent attention to detail and organisational skills.
• Proficiency in accounting software Sage and Microsoft Excel.
• Ability to communicate financial information clearly to non-financial colleagues.
• Commitment to the mission and values of Happy Days.

Desirable

• Knowledge of charity accounting principles and fund accounting.
• Experience preparing reports for funders or auditors.
• Understanding of restricted/unrestricted funding.

What We Offer

• The opportunity to make a real difference in the lives of people experiencing homelessness and crisis.
• A supportive, values-driven working environment.
• Flexible working arrangements where possible.