CFG Annual Conference 2026: Why ERP Transformation is Defining Finance Recruitment

If there was one topic that dominated the conversations that the Mackie Myers team had at this year's Charity Finance Group (CFG) Annual Conference, it was transformation.

The charity sector is navigating one of the most significant periods of operational change in recent years, with ERP implementations and systems changes becoming some of the biggest priorities facing organisations today.

While financial sustainability, cyber security, income diversification and governance all remain key focuses, organisations are increasingly recognising that outdated systems can limit efficiency, restrict insights and ultimately hinder strategic decision-making. As a result, many charities are investing in modern finance platforms, digital transformation programmes and improved reporting capabilities to build more resilient organisations for the future.

This shift is not only changing how the finance functions within charities operate, it is also reshaping the skills that organisations are looking to recruit.

Transforming for the future

Historically, many charities have relied on legacy systems that have evolved over many years, often through mergers, organisational growth or changing funding requirements. While these systems have served organisations well, many are now reaching the point where they no longer provide the flexibility, automation or reporting capabilities that modern teams require.

ERP implementation projects are therefore becoming increasingly common across charities of all sizes, from national organisations managing complex funding streams, through to growing charities looking to improve financial controls and operational efficiency.

Updated systems can help organisations streamline processes, improve financial reporting, strengthen governance, reduce manual administration and provide better visibility across programmes and funding. And in a sector where every pound needs to deliver maximum impact, having access to accurate, timely information has never been more important.

However, technology alone is rarely enough. Successful transformation depends on having the right people to lead through change, engage stakeholders and ensure new systems are embedded effectively across the organisation.

Demand for Transformation Experience

One of the clearest trends emerging from our conversations across the sector is the increase in demand for finance professionals who can combine technical expertise with proven transformation experience.

Today's employers are looking beyond traditional financial leadership, and Finance Directors and  Heads of Finance are increasingly expected to play a leading role in major change programmes, whether that's implementing a new ERP platform, redesigning finance processes, improving reporting structures, or supporting wider organisational transformation.

Alongside permanent appointments, many charities are also engaging interim finance professionals to provide specialist expertise during implementation projects. These individuals often bring experience of multiple ERP programmes, helping organisations navigate complex change while maintaining business-as-usual operations.

As transformation programmes gather pace, candidates with experience of systems implementation, project management, process improvement and change leadership are becoming increasingly sought after.

Change Management is Just as Important as Technology

Although ERP projects are often viewed as technology initiatives, their success is usually determined by people rather than software.

Finance teams are expected to adopt new ways of working, reporting structures may evolve, approval processes can change, and colleagues across the wider organisation often need to engage with new systems and workflows. This makes effective change management critical.

Leaders who can communicate clearly, build confidence across teams and maintain momentum throughout the implementation process are proving invaluable. Equally, finance professionals who understand both the technical and cultural aspects of transformation are helping organisations maximise the return on significant technology investments.

The charities achieving the greatest success are often those that view ERP implementation as a business transformation programme, rather than simply an IT project.

Competition for Experienced Talent is Increasing

As more organisations begin transformation programmes at the same time, competition for experienced finance professionals is becoming increasingly pronounced.

For hiring managers, this means that recruitment processes need to be well planned and decisive. Organisations that can clearly articulate the purpose of the role they are hiring for, offer engaging opportunities and move efficiently through the process are often better positioned to secure the strongest talent. And in many cases, this can mean looking at talent from outside the charity sector.

Looking Ahead

The pace of digital transformation across the charity sector shows little sign of slowing. As organisations continue to modernise finance functions, improve governance and seek greater operational efficiency, demand for experienced finance transformation professionals is expected to remain strong.

Technology will undoubtedly play a central role in shaping the future of finance within charities, but ultimately, successful transformation depends on people.

Organisations that invest in experienced finance leaders who can guide change, build stakeholder confidence and deliver lasting improvements will be best placed to maximise the value of their investment and strengthen their long-term resilience.

How Mackie Myers Can Help

At Mackie Myers, we work closely with charities and not-for-profit organisations across the UK to recruit exceptional finance professionals, from interim transformation specialists through to permanent finance leadership appointments.

Whether you're preparing for an ERP implementation, building out a transformation team, or looking for your next opportunity within the sector, we'd be delighted to start a conversation.

Get in touch with our specialist NFP team to discuss the current market and how we can support your hiring or career ambitions. hello@mackiemyers.co.uk