Job Description

Company Overview

The Craft Potters Association (CPA) is the UK's leading members' organisation representing studio potters and ceramic artists. With a legacy of promoting excellence in contemporary ceramics, the CPA supports a thriving community of ceramic practitioners and enthusiasts. The organisation operates the Contemporary Ceramics gallery, publishes the internationally renowned Ceramics Review magazine, and organises major ceramics fairs including Ceramic Art London. Our small but dynamic team of 15 staff and freelancers works collaboratively to champion handmade ceramics through exhibitions, publishing, and events.

Summary

The Finance Manager will play a dual strategic and operational role within the Craft Potters Association and its subsidiaries (Ceramic Review Publishing Ltd and Contemporary Ceramics). The role involves hands-on financial management, reporting, compliance, and analysis to ensure financial practices are robust and aligned with organisational goals. The Finance Manager will also identify opportunities for process and cost efficiency, and provide critical financial insights to the CPA Council, Director, and budget holders.

Key Duties & Responsibilities:

Management Accounts and Financial Reporting

Prepare quarterly management accounts for the CPA Council, including Income & Expenditure (by entity and consolidated), Balance Sheet, Cash Flow Summary, and Variance Analysis with narrative commentary. Develop and maintain financial performance dashboards, tracking key metrics such as membership trends, cash forecasts, gallery sales, fair profitability and magazine revenue. Prepare and present timely management accounts to the CPA Council on a quarterly basis. This includes the P&L, Balance Sheet, and Cash Flow statements, along with insightful variance analysis and narrative commentary to aid strategic decision-making

Budgeting and Forecasting

Lead the annual budget preparation in collaboration with the Director and budget holders, implementing clear monthly phasing for better cost control and accountability. Conduct mid-year reforecasting based on current performance and future projections. Manage cash flow forecasting (monthly rolling 12-month view) to support planning and risk management.

Annual Statutory Accounts and Audit

Liaise with an external accounting firm to support the preparation of annual statutory accounts for all three entities. Act as the primary contact for external auditors on matters relevant to the annual audit process. Ensure timely submission of the CPA accounts to the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) and file company accounts for subsidiaries with Companies House. Prepare and submit Corporation Tax returns for subsidiaries as required.

VAT Management

Take responsibility for the preparation and submission of quarterly VAT returns for all CPA entities, ensuring the correct VAT treatment is applied across complex and mixed income streams (including gallery sales, membership income, fairs, and advertising). Maintain accurate VAT records, reconcile VAT control accounts, and act as the primary point of contact for any VAT queries from HMRC or auditors.

Financial Controls and Process Improvement

Implement and maintain robust internal financial controls, including segregation of duties, payment approval processes, and regular monthly reconciliation routines. Document key finance processes for continuity and transparency. Identify and support system improvements, such as exploring advanced Xero functions and automated payment approval methods to pursue operational and cost efficiencies.

Strategic Financial Support (as needed)

Provide expert advice on the financial viability of plans, proposals, and feasibility studies. Conduct scenario modelling for significant investments or large projects. Perform unit cost analysis (e.g., for magazine production, gallery exhibitions, fair stand costs) to inform decision-making. Offer advice on the CPA's reserves policy and long-term sustainability planning.

Qualifications

Advanced degree in Finance, Accounting, or a related field, with professional certifications (ACA, ACCA, CIMA). Extensive experience in financial management, compliance, and hands-on accounting, preferably within a non-profit or arts environment. Strong analytical skills, attention to detail and a proactive, problem-solving approach. Proficiency with financial software (e.g. Xero) and advanced data manipulation skills (e.g. Microsoft Excel). Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to present complex financial information clearly to both financial and non-financial stakeholders

How to Apply

If you are passionate about supporting the arts through sound financial stewardship, we invite you to bring your expertise to our vibrant community. Join us in shaping the future of CPA--To apply, please send a CV and short covering letter outlining your relevant experience to

hr@ceramicreview.com

, with

"Finance Manager application"

in the subject line.

Job Types: Part-time, Permanent

Pay: 18,000.00-24,000.00 per year

Expected hours: 14 per week

Benefits:

Casual dress Company pension Employee discount Work from home
Education:

Bachelor's (required)
Experience:

Financial management: 5 years (required)
Work authorisation:

United Kingdom (required)
Work Location: Hybrid remote in London WC1B

Application deadline: 26/11/2025