Active Life Ltd

Finance Manager- Canterbury District (Office based- CT2 and CT6 Postcode area) Salary: £45,000 Contract: Permanent Contract About Us: Active Life is a registered charity dedicated to improving health, wellbeing, and community connection through inclusive and accessible programmes. Any surplus we generate is reinvested directly into enhancing and developing our services and facilities. We are governed by a committed Board of Trustees who volunteer their time, bring valuable business expertise, and share a genuine passion for our work. As a community‑focused charity, we work closely with local people and strive to ensure our activities remain open and accessible to all. The role: We are now seeking an experienced and proactive Finance Manager to lead our finance function and support the long‑term sustainability of the organisation. This is a key role for a fully qualified finance professional (CIMA, ACCA or equivalent) who is confident operating across the full financial cycle in a true 360‑degree role. You will take ownership of all aspects of financial management, ensuring high quality financial information, strong internal controls, and the development of streamlined, fit‑for‑purpose processes. Working as part of a small and collaborative team, you will balance strategic oversight with hands‑on delivery, supporting colleagues while driving continuous improvement across the finance function. You will lead on bookkeeping oversight, payroll, bank and cash management, statutory reporting, VAT, budgeting, forecasting, and financial analysis. You will also play a central role in improving systems, removing operational blockers, and providing clear financial insight that supports effective planning and decision‑making. What we’re looking for • Fully qualified accountant (CIMA, ACCA, or equivalent)., • Significant experience managing end‑to‑end finance operations, ideally within a charity or not‑for‑profit setting., • Strong technical accounting skills and experience producing management accounts, budgets, and forecasts., • Proven ability to develop and improve financial systems, processes, and controls., • Confident user of accounting software (Xero desirable) and Excel., • Excellent organisational, analytical, and communication skills., • A proactive, solutions‑focused approach and the ability to work effectively in a small team. Why join Active Life? • A friendly, supportive, and purpose‑driven working environment., • The opportunity to shape and strengthen a vital finance function., • A role with real impact, contributing directly to community wellbeing., • Work within your own community. If you are a confident, hands‑on finance professional who enjoys variety and wants to make a meaningful difference, we would love to hear from you. How to apply: Please send your CV and a short supporting statement outlining how you meet the person specification