We are now seeking to recruit a dynamic leader to the critically important role of Head of Finance and Operations. This is a senior position, working closely with the Chief Executive and the Board of Trustees to lead the organisation’s development. If you are excited about our mission and the importance of community integration, and have the experience we need, please consider applying! 

As Head of Finance and Operations, you will be responsible for managing and overseeing the financial health of Sanctuary Runners, ensuring strong governance, compliance with financial regulations, and operational efficiency. You will be key in helping Sanctuary Runners grow sustainably, ensuring we have the financial resources and operational infrastructure to fulfil our mission of promoting community integration and inclusion through sport. The role combines strategic leadership with hands-on management of financial reporting, budgeting, and daily operations. You will directly manage a small team and will have broad influence across the organisation. 

This role will be hugely important to the long-term success of Sanctuary Runners. 

Key Responsibilities: 

1. Financial Management 

• Oversee all financial management, including budgeting, forecasting and reporting. Work closely with CEO, Chair of Board Finance Committee, external auditor and other stakeholders. 
• Lead the financial planning and budgeting process, ensuring that resources are effectively allocated to support Sanctuary Runners strategic plan, activities and operational needs. 
• Support decision making by delivering regular, accurate, and clear financial reporting and analysis to the CEO, Board of Trustees, and other stakeholders. 
• Work closely with the Chair of the Finance Committee to develop and present monthly financial reports that highlight key financial metrics, trends, and forecasts. 
• Prepare and review the annual budget, cash flow forecasts, and long-term financial plans in collaboration with the CEO and team. 
• Oversee the preparation and timely submission of all financial statements, ensuring compliance with Irish charity law and financial regulations, including SORP (Statement of Recommended Practice). 
• Ensure that financial policies and procedures are in place and adhered to, maintaining best practices in financial management. 
• Oversee payroll, expenses, and financial transactions, ensuring accurate record keeping.

2. Strategic Planning and Leadership 

• Work closely with the CEO and Board to shape and execute Sanctuary Runners long term strategic plans. 
• Advise the Board and CEO on financial matters, providing insights and recommendations on financial sustainability and operational efficiency. 
• Provide strategic and operational guidance to the CEO and Board, ensuring effective governance and robust financial controls. 
• Represent the organisation and the CEO externally with partners, funders and in public forums as needed. 
• Support the development of new projects, programmes, and funding models that align with Sanctuary Runners mission of inclusion and integration. 
• In collaboration with the CEO, lead, develop, and motivate the Sanctuary Runners team, fostering a culture of collaboration, accountability, and continuous improvement. 

3. Compliance, Risk Management, and Governance 

• In consultation with the CEO and the relevant Board officers and committees, ensure our compliance with the requirements of the Companies Office, the Charities Regulator and the Governance Code. 
• Ensure that all financial operations comply with relevant laws, including charity law, VAT regulations, and tax requirements in Ireland. 
• Manage our risk register, ensuring that financial and operational risks are identified, monitored, and mitigated. 
• Support the Board of Trustees in fulfilling its financial oversight responsibilities, ensuring adherence to best practice governance standards. 

4. Fundraising Support 

• Shared responsibility with the CEO for developing and implementing Sanctuary Runners fundraising strategy. 
• Ensure robust financial management of donations, grants, and fundraising campaigns. 
• Provide financial oversight for all fundraising initiatives, ensuring funds raised are accurately accounted for and used in line with donor intentions, and timely, accurate reports provided to donors. 
• Develop financial models for new programmes or services, providing data to support funding applications and reporting. 

5. Operations Management and Process Improvement 

• Oversee day-to-day operations, including managing office administration, HR functions, IT, and logistics. 
• Identify areas for operational improvements and implement streamlined processes to ensure greater efficiency and cost-effectiveness in delivering Sanctuary Runners’ services and programmes. 
• Ensure that resources (people, equipment, technology) are being used efficiently to support programme delivery

Qualifications and Experience Essential: 

• A passion for social inclusion, integration, and the mission of Sanctuary Runners. 
• Minimum of three years leadership experience in financial and operational management with experience in a senior role, ideally in the not-for-profit or charity sector. 
• Significant experience in not-for-profit or charity finance, including a strong understanding of SORP and charity law in Ireland.
• Demonstrated understanding of the governance and operational standards required by non-profits / charities. 
• Strong track record in managing budgeting, forecasting, financial reporting, and analysis, with experience working closely with Boards and senior management teams. 
• Proven ability to lead, motivate and develop the team in a resource-constrained environment. 
• Ability to manage multiple, complex, projects with competing deadlines. 
• Experience with fundraising finances, including managing restricted and unrestricted funds, grant reporting, and donor stewardship. 

Desirable: 

• Accounting qualification (ACA, ACCA, CIMA or equivalent) with significant experience in charity finance 
• Experience managing relations and partnerships (e.g., with state/philanthropic grant-making bodies). 
• Knowledge of the Irish asylum system and community integration issues. 
• amiliarity with the challenges and opportunities of small charities, particularly those focused on grassroots community work.
• Proficiency in accounting software (e.g., QuickBooks, Xero) and Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, PowerPoint, Word). 

Key Skills and Attributes: 

• Commitment to the mission, vision and values of Sanctuary Runners. 
• Strategic Vision: Ability to think ahead and contribute to long-term sustainability and strategic objectives. 
• Focused on results: Follows through on commitments. Willing to roll up sleeves to get things done. Prioritises. 
• Communication: Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to present financial and operational information to non-financial stakeholders. Effectively articulates our mission and activities internally and externally (e.g., media, partners, donors). 
• Team player: Strong team player with excellent listening skills and interpersonal communication skills. Enjoys working with diverse people, communities, and cultures. 
• Detail-Oriented: Ensures accuracy in financial reporting and operational management. 
• Problem-Solving: Proactive in identifying issues and developing practical solutions to improve financial and operational performance.
• Resilience and Flexibility: Ability to adapt to changing priorities and external challenges, particularly in a small charity with limited resources. 
• Ethical and Transparent: Strong commitment to ethical financial practices and transparency

Terms and Benefits 

• Salary c.€62k p.a. 
• Employer pension contribution. 
• Full-time position, remote working. 
• Some evening or weekend work may be required, depending on events and operational needs. 
• Flexible working options available. 

The Head of Finance and Operations will be a key player in ensuring that Sanctuary Runners has the financial and operational stability to continue our vital work in promoting integration and inclusion. The successful candidate will combine financial management expertise with a passion for social change, ensuring that Sanctuary Runners continues to bring communities together.