Jobs

Reports to: Director of Corporate Services
Hours: Full time (37.5hrs/week), permanent. Standard working hours are 09:00 – 17:30 Monday – Friday.
Salary: £42,000 – £50,000 p.a. dependent on experience.
Deadline: The deadline for application is 5pm Wednesday 11th March. Interviews to be held w/c 16th March.

The Head of Finance is responsible for the day-to-day management of the finance function for Dynamic Earth Enterprises Ltd and Dynamic Earth Charitable Trust, ensuring accurate and timely reporting across the organisation.

Alongside the day-to-day finances the Head of Finance will play a key role in identifying opportunities to streamline workflows, utilise digital tools and improve reporting efficiency. Additionally, they will support the are ongoing fundraising campaigns and capital projects that look to transform and sustain our science centre as we progress through our new strategy Beginning to Mend.

From corporate events, seasonal trails and retail offerings to time-machines, science clubs and icebergs, Dynamic Earth is a workplace like no other! There is always an adventure around the corner and a unique challenge to solve.

We’re looking for someone who has strong experience in managing a finance team and business partnering. This is a practical and hands-on management role where the Head of Finance will collaborate with other departments to ensure the smooth running of the business and help create extraordinary experiences such as Seasonal Events and Planetarium Lates.

Could you be that person? If the answer is year, then we look forward to receiving your application and to meeting you in person soon.

Organisational structure

Dynamic Earth has four directorates: Corporate Services, Visitor Experience & Events, Fundraising & Marketing, and Learning & Engagement. Reporting to the Corporate Services Director, this role will manage and oversee all financial processes and procedures whilst collaborating with the other Heads of Department in ensuring the smooth running of the day-to-day within the organisation.

Duties and responsibilities

Day-to-Day Financial Management – Oversee the effective running of all day-to-day finance operations, including the accurate and timely processing of monthly and reviewing and approving weekly payroll.
Financial Reporting – Lead financial reporting across the organisation, including: balance sheet reconciliations, preparation of Management Accounts, reporting on fundraising campaigns and project expenditure and ad hoc financial analysis and project reporting as required.
Budgeting / Forecasting – Produce the annual budgeting and reforecasts, providing financial analysis and insight. Ownership of the budgeting, forecasting, and financial performance of seasonal events and Planetarium Lates, ensuring commercial viability and effective cost control.
Process Improvement – Lead the ongoing modernisation of finance systems and processes, with a strong focus on digitalisation and integration across platforms. Drive the reduction and elimination of paper-based processes, streamline workflows, and strengthen financial controls through automation and improved systems connectivity.
Business Partnering– Partner with senior leaders and departmental managers to support effective financial management. Provide insight, challenge, and guidance to ensure strong budgetary control and informed decision-making.
Compliance – Ensure full compliance with accounting standards, Charities SORP, and all relevant tax regulations, including VAT, PAYE, NIC, Gift Aid, and Import Duties.
Team Management – Manage and develop the Finance Team, setting clear objectives, conducting regular performance reviews, and implementing structured training and development plans.
Strategic Leadership – Develop and deliver a clear finance team strategy aligned with the wider organisational strategy, ensuring the function effectively supports long-term goals.
Annual Accounts & Audit – Act as the primary contact for the annual audit process. Collaborate with external auditors in the preparation and completion of statutory accounts, including group consolidation, ensuring compliance with relevant reporting standards.

Essential skills

Professional Qualification – Fully qualified accountant (CA, ACA, ACCA, CIMA or equivalent), with up-to-date technical knowledge and a strong understanding of current accounting standards and regulatory requirements.
Financial Experience – A minimum of five years’ experience in a similar role, with demonstrable expertise in budgeting, financial reporting, and the preparation of annual statutory accounts.
People Management – Proven experience of effective line management, with the ability to support, develop, and motivate colleagues. Committed to fostering a high-performing team culture where individuals are empowered to reach their full potential.
Budget Management – Strong experience in developing annual and project budgets, with the ability to monitor performance and ensure delivery within agreed financial parameters. Able to provide clear financial insight and challenge where required.
Eye for Detail – Highly detail-oriented with strong professional curiosity. Brings a critical and analytical approach to financial oversight, ensuring accuracy, control, and continuous improvement across operations.
Belief in our Values and associated behaviours – Demonstrates a genuine commitment to our organisational Values of Passion, Caring, and Inclusivity. Leads by example in embedding these behaviours, contributing to a positive, collaborative, and inclusive culture.

Desirable skills

Charity Experience – Experience of working within a charity with multi-stream income environment is desirable.
Systems Experience – Candidates would benefit from experience with Sage 200 Standard, Sage 50 Payroll, Sage HR & Microsoft Teams.
Passion for Dynamic Earth – We are keen for colleagues to value the public purpose of the Charity and be supportive of From Beginning to Mend, our ten-year strategy.
Belief in the importance of STEM – We are keen for colleagues to see science skills as the gateway to careers for the young learners we support, and for STEM to be a brilliant way to ensure Scotland has the skills to drive an effective society and economy.
Desire to build a professional network – We are keen for you to visit other attractions, know market trends and build a strong peer network where you can learn from others, and share knowledge too.

To apply please send a CV and covering letter to Anastasia Rocke – Corporate Service Director – to peopleandculture@dynamicearth.org.uk detailing why you are the best candidate for the position.

Application Deadline: Wednesday 11/03/2026