Finance & Administration Team Leader
Welsh Mountain Zoo, Colwyn Bay
35 hours per week, Full-time, Permanent (part-time or alternative working patterns will be considered for the right candidate)
Salary: £28,840 - £30,900 per annum (depending on experience)
Working at the Welsh Mountain Zoo is more than just a job – it's an opportunity to make a real contribution to the future of the National Zoo of Wales.
Our purpose is to save species and their habitats. Through conservation, education, research, exceptional animal welfare and unforgettable visitor experiences, we are working towards our vision of a future where the natural world is valued, understood and protected.
As we continue to develop and strengthen our organisation, we are seeking an experienced and proactive Finance & Administration Team Leader to lead our finance and office function.
This is a varied role combining hands-on financial management, team leadership and systems improvement. Reporting to the Commercial Director, you will play a key role in ensuring the Zoo's financial records, controls and processes are accurate, compliant and fit for the future, while supporting the smooth running of our wider administration function.
What you'll bring:
· Experience in a Finance Officer, Senior Bookkeeper, Accounts Supervisor or similar finance role.
· Strong bookkeeping and financial administration experience, including purchase ledger, sales ledger and reconciliations.
· Experience using financial systems, ideally Xero.
· Experience supporting month-end processes, management reporting and audit preparation.
· Ability to develop and improve financial systems, controls and procedures.
· Strong analytical skills and exceptional attention to detail.
· Ability to communicate financial information confidently to non-finance colleagues.
· Experience supervising, coaching or supporting colleagues would be advantageous.
· AAT Level 4 qualification (or equivalent) is desirable; candidates qualified through experience are encouraged to apply.
· A collaborative and positive approach, with a commitment to continuous improvement.
Key responsibilities include:
· Leading the day-to-day operation of the Zoo's finance and administration function.
· Overseeing purchase ledger, sales ledger, reconciliations and financial processing.
· Managing income reconciliation across admissions, retail, memberships, donations and other revenue streams.
· Supporting monthly reporting, audits and year-end processes in partnership with external accountants.
· Acting as the organisation's Gift Aid lead and ensuring compliance with charity accounting requirements.
· Developing and embedding effective financial controls and Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs).
· Supporting payroll processes and financial administration.
· Leading, supporting and developing a small administration and finance team.
· Identifying opportunities to improve efficiency, systems and ways of working across the organisation.
· Ensuring all activities comply with organisational policies and procedures, including Finance, GDPR, Health & Safety, Security and People policies.
Why join us?
This is an exciting opportunity to help shape and strengthen a growing finance function within a conservation charity at a pivotal time in its development. You'll be joining a passionate team committed to making a positive impact for wildlife, visitors and future generations.
What We Offer
· Local Government Pension Scheme (LGPS)
· Enhanced company sick pay scheme following qualifying service
· 28 days annual leave (including bank holidays), increasing to 33 days after 5 years' service
· Free admission to the Zoo for your immediate family
· Complimentary access to BIAZA member zoos across the UK and Ireland
· Staff discount scheme across Zoo retail, catering and experiences
· Discounted gym membership
· Employee Assistance Programme (EAP)
· Free on-site parking
· Uniform provided where applicable
· Ongoing training and professional development opportunities
· Opportunities for career progression within a growing organisation
· The opportunity to contribute to meaningful conservation work at the National Zoo of Wales
Apply now
If you're an organised and solutions-focused finance professional looking for a role where you can make a tangible difference, we'd love to hear from you.
Please send your CV and a supporting statement (maximum two pages) outlining your suitability for the role and how you meet the criteria detailed in this advert.
Closing Date: 21st July 2026
We reserve the right to close this vacancy early should a suitable candidate be appointed before the closing date.
Welsh Mountain Zoo is an equal opportunities employer and welcomes applications from all suitably qualified candidates.
Pay: £28,840.00-£30,900.00 per year
Work Location: In person
