About Company
Cairn Housing Association is a dynamic and forward-thinking provider of quality affordable homes across Scotland. With a strong commitment to our tenants and communities, we strive to create safe, comfortable, and sustainable living environments. We are a values-driven organisation, dedicated to making a positive impact, fostering a supportive culture, and empowering our employees to excel. As a leading social landlord, we manage a diverse portfolio of properties and are constantly innovating to meet the evolving needs of our residents. Joining Cairn means becoming part of a team that genuinely cares, works collaboratively, and is passionate about transforming lives through housing.
Job Description
Are you a detail-oriented finance professional with a passion for numbers and a proactive approach to problem-solving? Cairn Housing Association is seeking a dedicated Home-Based FP&A Assistant to join our finance team. This is a fantastic opportunity for someone looking to grow their career in financial planning and analysis within a supportive and impactful organisation.
In this pivotal home-based role, you will play a crucial part in supporting our financial planning, budgeting, forecasting, and reporting processes. While primarily working from home, you’ll be an integral part of our collaborative finance team, leveraging technology to stay connected and contribute meaningfully to our strategic financial initiatives. You will assist in developing robust financial models, preparing comprehensive management reports, and providing critical insights that inform key business decisions. Your work will directly contribute to the financial health and sustainability of Cairn Housing Association, enabling us to continue providing excellent services to our tenants and communities.
We are looking for someone who thrives on data analysis, possesses excellent organisational skills, and is eager to develop their expertise in financial planning. If you are analytical, meticulous, and ready to make a significant contribution in a flexible, home-based environment, we encourage you to apply. This role offers the chance to work autonomously while being fully supported by an experienced team, with ample opportunities for professional growth and development within the housing sector.
Key Responsibilities
- Assist in the preparation of annual budgets and multi-year financial forecasts, ensuring accuracy and alignment with strategic objectives.
- Support the monthly, quarterly, and annual financial reporting cycles, including variance analysis and commentary.
- Develop and maintain financial models to aid in business planning, investment appraisal, and performance monitoring.
- Gather, analyse, and interpret financial and operational data to identify trends, risks, and opportunities.
- Prepare presentations and reports for senior management and the Board, summarising financial performance and outlook.
- Collaborate with various departments to collect necessary data and provide financial insights.
- Help to streamline and improve FP&A processes and tools, enhancing efficiency and data integrity.
- Perform ad-hoc financial analysis and special projects as required to support strategic initiatives.
Required Skills
- Proven experience (minimum 2 years) in a finance or accounting role, ideally with exposure to financial analysis.
- Strong proficiency in Microsoft Excel (e.g., pivot tables, VLOOKUPs, financial modelling).
- Solid understanding of financial principles, accounting concepts, and reporting standards.
- Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills with a keen eye for detail.
- Ability to manage multiple tasks, meet deadlines, and work effectively in a home-based environment.
- Strong written and verbal communication skills, capable of presenting complex financial information clearly.
- Self-motivated and able to work independently as well as collaboratively within a team.
Preferred Qualifications
- Part-qualified status (ACCA, CIMA, ICAS) or actively pursuing a relevant professional accounting qualification.
- Experience with financial planning software or ERP systems (e.g., Sage, Unit4, Power BI).
- Previous experience within the housing, social care, or non-profit sector.
- A degree in Finance, Accounting, Economics, or a related field.
Perks & Benefits
- Competitive salary package and defined contribution pension scheme.
- Generous annual leave entitlement, plus public holidays.
- Flexible, home-based working model with occasional travel to the Edinburgh office for team meetings.
- Commitment to professional development, including support for further qualifications.
- Employee assistance program for personal and professional well-being.
- Opportunity to make a tangible difference in the community through affordable housing.
How to Apply
If you are ready to bring your financial expertise to a purpose-driven organisation and thrive in a home-based role, we encourage you to apply. Please click on the application link below to submit your CV and a cover letter outlining your suitability for this position. We look forward to hearing from you!