eoa (Employee Ownership Association)
About the eoa (Employee Ownership Association) Employee ownership in the UK is at a critical moment. The sector has more than doubled since 2020. Awareness is rising. Evidence is compelling. Businesses, communities, and policymakers are increasingly recognising that a people-powered approach can unlock fairness, resilience, and productivity. We believe the UK can reach 10,000 employee owned businesses within the decade, transforming succession, broadening ownership, and reshaping the economic landscape. But achieving this relies on bold, strategic, values-led leadership across our community. The eoa exists to build and connect that community: a network of more than 850 member businesses, thousands of employee owners, specialist advisors, policymakers, and partners committed to powering fairer livelihoods and stronger businesses through employee ownership. Purpose of the Role The Finance Manager leads the eoa s finances to ensure the businesses resources are used effectively, efficiently, and sustainably. You will develop robust financial systems, reporting, and analysis to provide insight and assurance to the SLT and Board, playing a central role in safeguarding the eoa s financial health and enabling its strategic goals to be achieved. Role Summary Contract: Permanent Hours: 22.5 hours per week, working pattern to be agreed with successful candidate Location: Manchester (hybrid). You will be expected to attend the office at least twice per month, and more often where needed Salary: £45,000 (£27,000 pro rata) p/a Pension: Up to 7% employer pension match (from year 1 anniversary) Annual Leave: 30 days leave + bank holidays Reports to : Membership & Operations Director Management of : Finance and Business Support Administrator Key Responsibilities Lead the development and delivery of the organisation s financial strategy, ensuring it underpins and enables operational delivery. Manage the annual budget-setting process, working closely with colleagues to align budgets with strategic priorities. Manage day-to-day financial operations, including financial accounting, membership renewals, bank account management, cash flow monitoring, credit control, payments, and function oversight. Take responsibility for accurate and timely payroll and pension delivery, working in partnership with an external provider. Prepare and reconcile monthly, and year-end accounts, ensuring accuracy, compliance, and robust controls. Produce accurate, timely financial forecasts, management accounts and financial analysis to support operational and strategic decisions. Ensure compliance with statutory requirements including tax (VAT, PAYE, Corporation Tax) and financial reporting obligations. Maintain strong internal controls and risk management processes, safeguarding the organisation s financial health. Act as a signatory on company bank accounts, ensuring appropriate authorisation and governance arrangements are in place. Lead the ongoing development and improvement of finance processes and systems, and automations to drive efficiency and effectiveness. Knowledge, Experience, and Attributes Degree-level education and either ACCA, CIMA, or ACA qualification. Proven track record in budgeting, forecasting, cash flow management, and delivering accurate management accounts and financial analysis. Experience of working for or preparing SME accounts, managing audits, risk, and internal controls, with a focus on continuous improvement of systems and processes. Strategic thinker who can translate complex financial data into clear, actionable insight for senior leaders and the Board. Highly organised, proactive, and solution-focused, with excellent communication and stakeholder management skills. Collaborative, adaptable, and professional, demonstrating integrity and sound judgment in all financial matters. What Constitutes Success in This Role? Success in this role means the eoa has reliable, efficient, and well-governed financial operations that underpin all aspects of the business. You will ensure day-to-day finance processes are accurate and timely, cash flow and budgets are effectively managed, and statutory obligations are met with confidence. By providing clear analysis and insight, you will support the SLT and Board in making informed decisions, drive improvements in systems and reporting, and enable the eoa to achieve its strategic priorities. Key outcomes for the role Measures Outcome: The eoa maintains accurate, timely, and insightful financial reporting and analysis to support decision-making. Measure: Accurate monthly management accounts and forecasts delivered on time. Rolling forecasts and scenario analyses updated regularly. Outcome: Budgets are aligned with strategic priorities and financial resources are optimally managed. Measure: Budgets prepared and approved within agreed timelines. Variance between budgeted and actual expenditure monitored and reported. Cash flow maintained within agreed thresholds. Outcome: Statutory, regulatory, and internal governance requirements are met and risks are effectively managed. Measure: All statutory filings (tax, Companies House, pensions) submitted accurately and on time. External audit completed with no significant issues. Internal controls and risk management processes maintained and reviewed annually. Outcome: Financial systems and processes support operational efficiency and organisational growth. Measure: Transaction processing, reconciliations, and payroll delivered accurately and on schedule. Improvements in process efficiency implemented. Outcome: Finance contributes proactively to strategic decision-making and organisational development. Measure: Financial insight and recommendations consistently inform senior leadership decisions. Evidence of finance-led initiatives driving cost efficiency or strategic impact. Outcome: Finance function evolves to meet organisational needs and supports a culture of improvement. Measure: New or updated systems, processes, or reporting tools implemented successfully. Finance function demonstrates improved efficiency, effectiveness, or scalability over time. How to apply To apply, please submit: A two-page CV And ane of either: Cover letter setting out your motivation, approach, and what you will bring to the role Video (maximum 10 minutes) setting out your motivation, approach, and what you will bring to the role Applications should be submitted before 9:00am 2 March 2026. We will close this vacancy early if we receive sufficient applications for the role. If you are interested, please submit your application as early as possible. Interviews will be in Manchester w.c. 9 March 2026. The eoa welcomes applications from people of all backgrounds, particularly those who are under-represented. We recruit based on values, skills, and contribution to our purpose.
About the eoa (Employee Ownership Association) Employee ownership in the UK is at a critical moment. The sector has more than doubled since 2020. Awareness is rising. Evidence is compelling. Businesses, communities, and policymakers are increasingly recognising that a people-powered approach can unlock fairness, resilience, and productivity. We believe the UK can reach 10,000 employee owned businesses within the decade, transforming succession, broadening ownership, and reshaping the economic landscape. But achieving this relies on bold, strategic, values-led leadership across our community. The eoa exists to build and connect that community: a network of more than 850 member businesses, thousands of employee owners, specialist advisors, policymakers, and partners committed to powering fairer livelihoods and stronger businesses through employee ownership. Purpose of the Role The Finance Manager leads the eoa s finances to ensure the businesses resources are used effectively, efficiently, and sustainably. You will develop robust financial systems, reporting, and analysis to provide insight and assurance to the SLT and Board, playing a central role in safeguarding the eoa s financial health and enabling its strategic goals to be achieved. Role Summary Contract: Permanent Hours: 22.5 hours per week, working pattern to be agreed with successful candidate Location: Manchester (hybrid). You will be expected to attend the office at least twice per month, and more often where needed Salary: £45,000 (£27,000 pro rata) p/a Pension: Up to 7% employer pension match (from year 1 anniversary) Annual Leave: 30 days leave + bank holidays Reports to : Membership & Operations Director Management of : Finance and Business Support Administrator Key Responsibilities Lead the development and delivery of the organisation s financial strategy, ensuring it underpins and enables operational delivery. Manage the annual budget-setting process, working closely with colleagues to align budgets with strategic priorities. Manage day-to-day financial operations, including financial accounting, membership renewals, bank account management, cash flow monitoring, credit control, payments, and function oversight. Take responsibility for accurate and timely payroll and pension delivery, working in partnership with an external provider. Prepare and reconcile monthly, and year-end accounts, ensuring accuracy, compliance, and robust controls. Produce accurate, timely financial forecasts, management accounts and financial analysis to support operational and strategic decisions. Ensure compliance with statutory requirements including tax (VAT, PAYE, Corporation Tax) and financial reporting obligations. Maintain strong internal controls and risk management processes, safeguarding the organisation s financial health. Act as a signatory on company bank accounts, ensuring appropriate authorisation and governance arrangements are in place. Lead the ongoing development and improvement of finance processes and systems, and automations to drive efficiency and effectiveness. Knowledge, Experience, and Attributes Degree-level education and either ACCA, CIMA, or ACA qualification. Proven track record in budgeting, forecasting, cash flow management, and delivering accurate management accounts and financial analysis. Experience of working for or preparing SME accounts, managing audits, risk, and internal controls, with a focus on continuous improvement of systems and processes. Strategic thinker who can translate complex financial data into clear, actionable insight for senior leaders and the Board. Highly organised, proactive, and solution-focused, with excellent communication and stakeholder management skills. Collaborative, adaptable, and professional, demonstrating integrity and sound judgment in all financial matters. What Constitutes Success in This Role? Success in this role means the eoa has reliable, efficient, and well-governed financial operations that underpin all aspects of the business. You will ensure day-to-day finance processes are accurate and timely, cash flow and budgets are effectively managed, and statutory obligations are met with confidence. By providing clear analysis and insight, you will support the SLT and Board in making informed decisions, drive improvements in systems and reporting, and enable the eoa to achieve its strategic priorities. Key outcomes for the role Measures Outcome: The eoa maintains accurate, timely, and insightful financial reporting and analysis to support decision-making. Measure: Accurate monthly management accounts and forecasts delivered on time. Rolling forecasts and scenario analyses updated regularly. Outcome: Budgets are aligned with strategic priorities and financial resources are optimally managed. Measure: Budgets prepared and approved within agreed timelines. Variance between budgeted and actual expenditure monitored and reported. Cash flow maintained within agreed thresholds. Outcome: Statutory, regulatory, and internal governance requirements are met and risks are effectively managed. Measure: All statutory filings (tax, Companies House, pensions) submitted accurately and on time. External audit completed with no significant issues. Internal controls and risk management processes maintained and reviewed annually. Outcome: Financial systems and processes support operational efficiency and organisational growth. Measure: Transaction processing, reconciliations, and payroll delivered accurately and on schedule. Improvements in process efficiency implemented. Outcome: Finance contributes proactively to strategic decision-making and organisational development. Measure: Financial insight and recommendations consistently inform senior leadership decisions. Evidence of finance-led initiatives driving cost efficiency or strategic impact. Outcome: Finance function evolves to meet organisational needs and supports a culture of improvement. Measure: New or updated systems, processes, or reporting tools implemented successfully. Finance function demonstrates improved efficiency, effectiveness, or scalability over time. How to apply To apply, please submit: A two-page CV And ane of either: Cover letter setting out your motivation, approach, and what you will bring to the role Video (maximum 10 minutes) setting out your motivation, approach, and what you will bring to the role Applications should be submitted before 9:00am 2 March 2026. We will close this vacancy early if we receive sufficient applications for the role. If you are interested, please submit your application as early as possible. Interviews will be in Manchester w.c. 9 March 2026. The eoa welcomes applications from people of all backgrounds, particularly those who are under-represented. We recruit based on values, skills, and contribution to our purpose.
eoa (Employee Ownership Association)
Purpose of the Role This Digital and Operational Lead will lead the development and day-to-day delivery of eoa s digital systems, operational infrastructure, and working environment (office and WFH). The role will ensure the smooth running of core business systems and services, embedding a data-driven, member-focused approach and supporting the delivery of our ambitious sector growth strategy. Role Summary Contract: Permanent Hours: 37.5 hours per week Location: Manchester (hybrid). You will be expected to attend the office at least twice per month, and more often where needed Salary: £35,000 Pension: Up to 7% employer pension match (from year 1 anniversary) Annual Leave: 30 days leave + bank holidays Reports to : Membership & Operations Director Management of :N/A Key Responsibilities Systems, Technology, and Intelligence Lead the delivery, development, and optimisation of our digital infrastructure, including implementation of AI, liaising with suppliers and internal stakeholders to ensure business-critical systems are maintained, secure, and future-proofed. Drive creation and delivery of seamless, engaging digital experiences that support member acquisition and retention, and generate measurable ROI. Ensure high digital adoption among staff and members while championing the use of iMIS (the eoa s AMS) as a single source of truth. Ensure high-quality data management practices and support teams in using data for business insight and decision-making. Business Operations Lead on all office and work from home functions including service provision, maintenance, insurances, H&S, and contracts with suppliers and landlord representatives. Support delivery of our people and culture strategy. Oversee our people processes including recruitment, onboarding and offboarding, staff contracts, holiday and absence records. Maintain accurate documentation and ensure regular reviews of safety and operational processes. Knowledge, Experience, and Attributes Confident using and maintaining digital platforms and systems (e.g. CRM, AMS, online communities, IT tools). Skilled in using digital tools, and in interest in implementing AI, to improve operational efficiency and UX. Data-literate, with experience supporting colleagues to use systems for data-led decision-making. Experience in change management or embedding new systems or processes across an organisation. Confident in supplier and stakeholder coordination to deliver on agreed service levels. Experience in operations, office coordination, or systems support within a membership body, charity, association, or SME. Knowledge of people and culture practices in small teams. Knowledge of health and safety compliance in an office setting. Strong organisational and problem-solving skills, with an ability to prioritise and deliver against competing deadlines. Knowledge or interest of employee ownership and experience working in a purpose-led organisation. What Constitutes Success in This Role? Success in this role will mean delivering high-performing digital systems that enhance member experience, strengthen engagement, and enable growth through smarter use of data. Strong supplier relationships and effective cost management will demonstrate tangible impact. Day-to-day operations will run smoothly, with efficient support for hybrid working and the seamless delivery of core operational services. Key outcomes for the roleMeasures Outcome: The eoa office and WFH environment is well-managed, safe, and compliant with all relevant legislation and standards. . Measure: All compliance checks (e.g. risk and DSE assessments) completed on time and documented, with no compliance breaches. Outcome: High-performing and future proof digital infrastructure. All core systems are integrated, meet user needs, are stable and secure. Measure: Resolution of critical issues within agreed SLAs; positive feedback from staff and key users in staff and member satisfaction surveys. Outcome: Member experience streamlined, engaging and user-friendly digital interactions with the eoa. Measure: Member satisfaction with digital services has an NPS of 40 in annual member survey; measurable improvement in digital engagement metrics. Outcome: New system functionality, updates or digital solutions are introduced on time, on budget, and with high adoption by staff and members. Measure: 100%+ internal adoption rate for new systems or features; post-implementation review shows on-time delivery and positive ROI or user feedback. Outcome: eoa uses accurate, timely data from a single source of truth to inform decisions and improve member services. Measure: All teams actively using iMIS data to report on KPIs or inform decision-making; data quality score (e.g. % of complete member profiles) reaches 85% Outcome: Contracts with digital and operational suppliers deliver value, performance and are aligned with organisational priorities. Measure: Supplier contracts are delivering on time and budget, with at least 90% supplier performance rated satisfactory or above. How to apply To apply, please submit: A two-page CV And and one of either: Cover letter setting out your motivation, approach, and what you will bring to the role Video (maximum 10 minutes) setting out your motivation, approach, and what you will bring to the role Applications should be submitted before 9:00am 2 March 2026. We will close this vacancy early if we receive sufficient applications for the role. If you are interested, please submit your application as early as possible. Interviews will be in Manchester w.c. 9 March 2026. The eoa welcomes applications from people of all backgrounds, particularly those who are under-represented. We recruit based on values, skills, and contribution to our purpose.
Purpose of the Role This Digital and Operational Lead will lead the development and day-to-day delivery of eoa s digital systems, operational infrastructure, and working environment (office and WFH). The role will ensure the smooth running of core business systems and services, embedding a data-driven, member-focused approach and supporting the delivery of our ambitious sector growth strategy. Role Summary Contract: Permanent Hours: 37.5 hours per week Location: Manchester (hybrid). You will be expected to attend the office at least twice per month, and more often where needed Salary: £35,000 Pension: Up to 7% employer pension match (from year 1 anniversary) Annual Leave: 30 days leave + bank holidays Reports to : Membership & Operations Director Management of :N/A Key Responsibilities Systems, Technology, and Intelligence Lead the delivery, development, and optimisation of our digital infrastructure, including implementation of AI, liaising with suppliers and internal stakeholders to ensure business-critical systems are maintained, secure, and future-proofed. Drive creation and delivery of seamless, engaging digital experiences that support member acquisition and retention, and generate measurable ROI. Ensure high digital adoption among staff and members while championing the use of iMIS (the eoa s AMS) as a single source of truth. Ensure high-quality data management practices and support teams in using data for business insight and decision-making. Business Operations Lead on all office and work from home functions including service provision, maintenance, insurances, H&S, and contracts with suppliers and landlord representatives. Support delivery of our people and culture strategy. Oversee our people processes including recruitment, onboarding and offboarding, staff contracts, holiday and absence records. Maintain accurate documentation and ensure regular reviews of safety and operational processes. Knowledge, Experience, and Attributes Confident using and maintaining digital platforms and systems (e.g. CRM, AMS, online communities, IT tools). Skilled in using digital tools, and in interest in implementing AI, to improve operational efficiency and UX. Data-literate, with experience supporting colleagues to use systems for data-led decision-making. Experience in change management or embedding new systems or processes across an organisation. Confident in supplier and stakeholder coordination to deliver on agreed service levels. Experience in operations, office coordination, or systems support within a membership body, charity, association, or SME. Knowledge of people and culture practices in small teams. Knowledge of health and safety compliance in an office setting. Strong organisational and problem-solving skills, with an ability to prioritise and deliver against competing deadlines. Knowledge or interest of employee ownership and experience working in a purpose-led organisation. What Constitutes Success in This Role? Success in this role will mean delivering high-performing digital systems that enhance member experience, strengthen engagement, and enable growth through smarter use of data. Strong supplier relationships and effective cost management will demonstrate tangible impact. Day-to-day operations will run smoothly, with efficient support for hybrid working and the seamless delivery of core operational services. Key outcomes for the roleMeasures Outcome: The eoa office and WFH environment is well-managed, safe, and compliant with all relevant legislation and standards. . Measure: All compliance checks (e.g. risk and DSE assessments) completed on time and documented, with no compliance breaches. Outcome: High-performing and future proof digital infrastructure. All core systems are integrated, meet user needs, are stable and secure. Measure: Resolution of critical issues within agreed SLAs; positive feedback from staff and key users in staff and member satisfaction surveys. Outcome: Member experience streamlined, engaging and user-friendly digital interactions with the eoa. Measure: Member satisfaction with digital services has an NPS of 40 in annual member survey; measurable improvement in digital engagement metrics. Outcome: New system functionality, updates or digital solutions are introduced on time, on budget, and with high adoption by staff and members. Measure: 100%+ internal adoption rate for new systems or features; post-implementation review shows on-time delivery and positive ROI or user feedback. Outcome: eoa uses accurate, timely data from a single source of truth to inform decisions and improve member services. Measure: All teams actively using iMIS data to report on KPIs or inform decision-making; data quality score (e.g. % of complete member profiles) reaches 85% Outcome: Contracts with digital and operational suppliers deliver value, performance and are aligned with organisational priorities. Measure: Supplier contracts are delivering on time and budget, with at least 90% supplier performance rated satisfactory or above. How to apply To apply, please submit: A two-page CV And and one of either: Cover letter setting out your motivation, approach, and what you will bring to the role Video (maximum 10 minutes) setting out your motivation, approach, and what you will bring to the role Applications should be submitted before 9:00am 2 March 2026. We will close this vacancy early if we receive sufficient applications for the role. If you are interested, please submit your application as early as possible. Interviews will be in Manchester w.c. 9 March 2026. The eoa welcomes applications from people of all backgrounds, particularly those who are under-represented. We recruit based on values, skills, and contribution to our purpose.
