Chief financial officer jobs in Charing cross, greater london

This is an exciting opportunity for an experienced charity operations and finance professional to join as our inaugural Head of Operations and Finance. As we continue to grow our impact, we are seeking an exceptional Head of Operations and Finance to work closely with the Chief Executive and Executive Chair to help strengthen our operations and oversee our finances.

This is a pivotal leadership position combining strategic thinking with hands-on operational delivery. You will, support our Chief Executive and Executive Chair todevelop and implement organisational strategy while ensuring our people,systems, governance and finances support the effective delivery of our mission.You will join a close-knit team that punches above its weight, with real influence on policy affecting millions of babies worldwide.

If you're an experienced charity operations and finance professional looking for your next big challenge, we'd love to hear from you.

Head of Finance

Location: Hybrid, a mixture of remote working and office-based at Solar House, 3rd Floor, 1-9 Romford Rd, London, E15 4LJ.   
Hours: 3 or 4 days a week, negotiable

Salary:  Up to £62,500 (pro rata) 

Closing date of advert: 20 July 2026

Interview Dates:  TBC

Our mission at School-Home Support is simple. We get children and young people back in school, ready to learn, whatever it takes. Every role in our organisation helps make that happen.

We are looking for a Head of Finance to act as our financial conscience and strategic navigator. 

As the Head of Finance, you will provide strategic financial leadership while ensuring our day-to-day operations are exceptionally robust.  You will report directly to the Chief Executive Officer, line-manage a Senior Finance Manager, as well as working closely with our Board of Trustees.

In this role, you will be expected to serve as the organisation's financial conscience, ensuring absolute transparency, integrity, and strict adherence to UK fundraising regulations. Looking ahead, you will also play a key role in analysing commercial opportunities to drive new business growth.

Key Responsibilities

• Financial Stewardship: Manage general ledgers, reserves, budgeting, and long-term financial modelling.
• Governance & Trustees: Work closely with the Board, Finance Committee, and Remuneration Committee.
• Compliance & Legal: Ensure complete adherence to HMRC, Charity Commission, and Charities SORP requirements.
• Risk Management: Maintain and update the Risk Register to protect charity assets.
• New Business & Commercial Growth: Provide costings and commercial modelling for new tenders and products.
• Team Leadership: Oversee the internal finance team and third-party payroll providers.
• About You
• Qualifications: You are a fully qualified CCAB or CIMA accountant with extensive post-qualification experience.
• Sector Knowledge: You have a proven track record in a senior charity finance role managing statutory accounts over full year cycles.
• Regulatory Expertise: You fully understand UK fundraising regulations, charity governance, and company law.
• Commercial Mindset: You can confidently support non-finance departments with commercial analysis to secure new contracts.
• Systems Experience: Experience with Sage and Salesforce is highly desirable 

What We Offer
We really value modern workplace flexibility. This permanent role is offered as a 3 or 4 days per week part-time position, with a hybrid working pattern split between remote work and our office in Stratford, London.

We actively support staff wellbeing and champion a safe, diverse culture where everyone can be themselves. Here is what we offer our team:

• Employee Assistance Programme, providing confidential support for you and your family
• Life assurance for added financial security
• Pension scheme
• A structured induction and ongoing professional development
• A supportive and collaborative team environment where your experience and ideas are valued
• The opportunity to make a meaningful difference to the lives of children, young people and families

Applications are reviewed continually, and we reserve the right to interview and appoint prior to the closing date, so early applications are strongly encouraged. 

We are an equal opportunities employer and welcome applications from all sections of the community. 

School-Home Support takes the duty of care to safeguard and promote the welfare of children very seriously, and is committed to ensuring that our safeguarding practice reflects statutory responsibilities, government guidance and complies with best practice. Our safeguarding policy recognises that the welfare and interests of children are paramount in all circumstances.

All roles at SHS are subject to a DBS check at the level appropriate to the role.

Create is seeking a dynamic, ambitious, driven, fundraiser (grants/major gifts) with strong strategic skills, an exemplary income generation track record, and a passion for the power of the creative arts. This Senior Leadership Team position reports directly to the Chief Executive and manages a small team.

Do you believe in the power of the creative arts to connect, empower and upskill isolated and vulnerable children and adults? Are you passionate about relationship building, storytelling, meeting targets and changing lives? Are you excited to use your extensive senior-level fundraising experience, knowledge and contacts to lead Create’s income generation from Trusts & Foundations (T&F), public sector and High Net Worth Individuals (HNWI)? 

The Finance Director is responsible for all aspects of the group's finances (National Federation of Music Societies, trading as Making Music and its trading subsidiary), to ensure accurate and complete recording of all financial transactions, adherence to internal controls and procedures, and timely and effective analysis and reporting to the Chief Executive, Senior Management Team and other budget holders, the Finance & Compliance Committee and the Board of Trustees.

The Finance Director post is an integral part of the charity's senior management team, working closely with the Chief Executive, the Deputy CEO Advocacy and Lobbying and the Marketing Director, setting the strategic direction of the organisation and ensuring it has the financial systems and resources to implement its strategy.

The role line-manages and oversees the work of the Finance Manager who runs the day-to-day financial accounting processes, with the help of two Finance Administrators.

The role also leads on supporting members with finances, e.g. leading Treasurers' events, relevant website resources and responding to finance-related consultations.

The 2 days (15 hours) per week can be worked flexibly, and at least some of them from home, by agreement with your line manager. We would expect you to spend at least 1 days each week in our London office in Moorgate.

This is a friendly team, and our bright and lively office is located in one of the buzziest areas of London, with excellent transport links and nice places to spend your lunchtimes or meet friends after work.

Rainforest Trust UK

Rainforest Trust UK (RTUK) (Charity No. 1169111) is a high-impact conservation charity dedicated to protecting the world’s most threatened tropical forests.

This is a pivotal moment for global conservation and for our organisation. As one of the most effective rainforest conservation charities globally, Rainforest Trust has helped protect over 60 million acres of tropical rainforest across more than 67 countries, delivering permanent protection for some of the world’s most threatened ecosystems.

Rainforest Trust UK is one of the charity’s fastest-growing affiliates, now generating £2m+ annually and supporting a global organisation with $55m+ in revenue with significant ambition for further growth and impact.

The role
We are seeking a Chief Executive Officer (CEO) to lead the next phase of our strategic plan driving growth in income, strengthening the organisational capability, and positioning the UK as a leading philanthropic engine within the global organisation.
The CEO will provide overall leadership of Rainforest Trust UK, with a primary focus on fundraising, external engagement, and partnering.
This is a hands-on leadership role, requiring both strategic clarity and operational execution. The CEO will lead a small team, work closely with the Board of Trustees, while partnering with the global CEO and senior leadership based in the USA.

Key responsibilities

Strategy and organisational leadership

• Lead the delivery of the 2026–2030 strategy, aligning UK priorities with global objectives
• Translate strategy into clear plans, targets, and performance metrics
• Drive organisational focus on outcomes, impact, and growth

Fundraising and external leadership

• Act as a senior ambassador for the organisation in the UK and internationally
• Build Rainforest Trust UK’s visibility and influence within philanthropic networks
• Personally cultivate and manage a portfolio of high-value donor relationships

Financial Stewardship

• Oversee financial planning, budgeting, and performance including annual audit
• Ensure strong financial controls and effective use of resources
• Support the growth of sustainable income to maximise conservation impact

Governance and Board engagement

• Ensure compliance with UK charity regulation and best practice
• Provide clear, rigorous reporting on performance, risk, and finances
• Work in close partnership with the Board to support effective governance and decision-making

Global partnerships and collaboration

• Build strong, effective relationships with global Rainforest Trust leadership
• Align UK fundraising with global conservation priorities
• Act as a key interface between UK donors and global programmes

Leadership and culture

• Lead and develop a small, high-performing team
• Create a culture of accountability, clarity, and delivery
• Ensure effective organisational structure and use of resources

Purpose & Alignment

• Deep commitment to environmental conservation and climate impact
• Motivated by the opportunity to deliver measurable, lasting global outcomes
• Alignment with Rainforest Trust’s values of effectiveness, integrity, and partnership

Why Join Rainforest Trust UK
This is a rare opportunity to lead an organisation where:

• Impact is clear, measurable, and permanent
• There is significant opportunity to scale income and influence
• You can play a direct role in protecting some of the world’s most critical ecosystems

At a time when the protection of tropical forests is more urgent than ever, this role offers the chance to combine purpose with performance delivering meaningful impact at global scale.

Candidate profile
We are seeking a credible, externally focused leader with:

• A strong track record in fundraising, particularly major donors and high-value relationships
• The ability to operate with credibility, influence, and judgement at senior levels
• Experience leading organisations or teams through growth and change
• Experience working with Boards and an understanding of UK charity governance

Above all, candidates will bring a clear alignment to the mission and is motivated by the opportunity to deliver measurable, lasting conservation impact at global scale.

Cerebra is the national charity dedicated to improving the lives of children with neurological conditions and their families. We provide vital research, support, and practical solutions that empower families facing complex challenges.

With an annual income of £3 million and a headcount of 68 employees, we have ambitious plans to double our income between 2025 and 2027, ensuring we can extend our impact, reach more families, and drive real change. To achieve this, we are investing in fundraising innovation, income generating ventures, and strategic partnerships, alongside enhancing our brand to increase our national recognition.

Our work is underpinned by our values ensuring that everything we do aligns with our mission to create a better world for children with neurological conditions.

This is an incredibly exciting time to join Cerebra, as we are preparing to launch our new strategy and brand. The COO is a vital leadership role that will support the drive towards even greater impact for children and families across the UK.

Our Services

Sleep Advice Service

Cerebra understands that if you have a child that doesn’t sleep, the whole family suffers. Many children with neurological conditions suffer from disrupted sleep. Our sleep advice service provides bespoke advice and support so that everyone can get a good night’s sleep.

Legal Rights Service

Our Legal Rights Service provides help and support to families of children with neurological conditions when they are faced with barriers and difficulties in accessing statutory support services they are entitled to. The service provides information on their legal entitlements.

Book and Toy Library Service

Our specialist postal lending library contains a wide range of books for both adults and children, plus a selection of sensory toys specifically chosen for children with a neurological condition.

Innovation and Product Design Service

Our Innovation Service designs and builds bespoke products that cater to the specific needs of children with neurological conditions. The aim of the service is to make products that are desirable and exciting, therefore promoting social inclusion, peer acceptance and enabling children to participate in everyday activities that are so often close to them.

Information Products

Cerebra publishes different information products to help families with a child with a neurological condition. Our information products offer comprehensive, up-to-date support and research-driven strategies to assist families with a wide range of issues.

Buzgi and Toy Adaptation Service

Cerebra designs and builds bespoke assistive equipment for disabled children, this includes creating custom mobility aids, switch‑adapted toys, and other innovative solutions to help children access play, learning, and independence.

The Bugzi - a mini powered wheelchair for children offers many children their first experience of independent mobility. It uses either a joystick or switches and adaptable seating for complex needs, and helps develop spatial awareness, confidence, and early mobility skills. The Bugzi is available through a national loan scheme.

Additionally, we operate commercial services (including a web shop) to supplement our income to support children and their families.

Our services are provided to families free of charge.

Job Title:

Chief Operating Officer

Reports To:

Chief Executive Officer

Direct reports:

3 senior managers (Finance (headcount of 3), HR (headcount of 1), IT (headcount of 5))

Purpose of the Role:

The Chief Operating Officer will play a vital role in supporting the Chief Executive Officer, Board and Leadership Team to deliver Cerebra’s vision and ambitious strategic aims. The Chief Operating Officer will provide strategic leadership and operational management across key areas within Cerebra including:

• Operational Systems
• Governance
• Compliance
• Finance and Growth

This is a pivotal executive leadership role, responsible for driving organisational performance, sustainability and growth. The COO will translate Cerebra’s strategic ambitions into effective operational delivery, ensuring robust governance, financial stewardship and a high-performing, values-led culture.

As a trusted advisor to the CEO and Board, the COO will lead core operational services and commercial activity, enabling the charity to maximise impact and generate sustainable income in support of its charitable objectives.

Key Responsibilities

Strategic & Executive Leadership

• Partner with the CEO and Board to deliver strategic priorities, growth and long-term sustainability
• Collaboration with the Director’s Group to ensure strategic alignment across the charity. The Director’s Group consists of:

            Chief Executive Officer

            Chief Operating Officer

            Director of Fundraising, Marketing and Communications

            Director of Research and Support Services

• Provide expert advice on finance, operations, commercial performance and organisational risk
• Lead organisational planning, business continuity, and operational resilience
• Foster a culture of continuous improvement, accountability and inclusion

Finance, Commercial & Sustainability

• Lead financial strategy, planning and performance, ensuring long-term sustainability
• Oversee budgeting, forecasting, cashflow and financial controls
• Lead and develop Cerebra’s strategy for commercial income , ensuring alignment with charitable objectives
• Support funding growth through strong financial insight and business case development
• Ensure robust financial governance, audit and compliance

Operations & Infrastructure

• Lead and strengthen operational functions including HR, IT, governance and administration
• Ensure effective systems, processes and infrastructure that enable growth, efficiency and impact
• Oversee procurement, contracts, facilities, and organisational compliance
• Drive innovation and value for money across operations

People & Culture

• Champion a positive, inclusive and high-performing organisational culture
• Oversee HR strategy, workforce planning and leadership development
• Ensure compliance with employment law and best practice
• Promote wellbeing, engagement and organisational effectiveness

Digital & Technology

• Provide strategic oversight of IT, data and digital development
• Ensure systems are secure, resilient and aligned to organisational needs
• Leverage data and technology to improve insight, decision-making and organisational impact

Governance, Risk & Compliance

• Ensure effective governance frameworks, risk management and regulatory compliance
• Support the CEO and Board with high-quality reporting and strategic insight
• Lead safeguarding, data protection and organisational risk strategy
• Drive a strong culture of accountability and ethical practice

Leadership & Management

• Lead and develop a small senior team across finance, HR and IT
• Build capability, strengthen performance, and embed a collaborative culture
• Model Cerebra’s values and leadership behaviours

Key Attributes

• Strategic and commercially minded leader with strong operational delivery experience
• Strong financial leadership and business acumen
• Proven track record of driving income growth, sustainability and organisational performance
• Skilled in governance, risk and stakeholder engagement

Please see attached job description for the Person Specification.

This is an exciting time to join Discover 

In spring 2026 we delivered a major programme of business transformation including rebuilding site infrastructure, new visitor spaces, an improved ticketing model and revised accounting system and procedures. 

We’re now looking for a permanent, part-time Finance Director to join our Senior Management team, shape and manage the finance department and bring financial insight to all areas of decision making. 

Overview of the role 

• Overseeing and continuously improving our financial systems, controls and processes 

• Leading, mentoring and developing the finance team 

• Producing management accounts and reports to funders 

• Analysis of financial performance and drivers 

• Leading budgeting, forecasting and financial planning processes. 

• Cash and treasury management 

• Prepare statutory accounts and run the external audit processes. 

• VAT checks and returns 

• Ensuring compliance with charity, company and tax regulations and funder requirements 

More information and a Job Description can be found on our website.

Wimbledon Guild is a community charity offering practical help and support, so that no one in the London Borough of Merton has to face life’s challenges alone.

We are a dynamic charity focused on delivering a wide range of excellent services to people in Merton. We work to:

• Reduce social isolation and loneliness
• Help people who are experiencing difficulties
• Enable older people to be active and healthy

We support older people to stay independent, offer Talking Therapies to improve mental health, and offer grant funding to tackle poverty. We collaborate closely with the London Borough of Merton, the NHS and a wide range of local charities and businesses and play a key role in Merton’s voluntary sector.

Our skilled, professional and committed team of 55 staff and 270 volunteers work hard to create a welcoming and inclusive community environment and we receive excellent client feedback.

The Role

We are looking for a Chief Executive to provide effective leadership and management of Wimbledon Guild and its team to ensure strategic development and the long-term sustainability of the organisation.
Our current Chief Executive will be leaving in December 2026, after 14 years leading Wimbledon Guild. We are in a strong position, with an excellent reputation and ambitious plans for returning to our refurbished building in January 2027.

Our new CEO will be joining us at a time of unprecedented demand for our services, with funding sources under ever increasing pressure.

Chief Executive Officer
Wimbledon Guild
Salary: circa £100,000 per annum
Location: Central Wimbledon

About You

We are seeking an inspirational leader and strategic thinker with a passion for social impact, who possesses:

• Strategic Leadership and Vision: Significant senior leadership experience within the voluntary, public, charity or community sectors, with a proven ability of developing new opportunities and entrepreneurial activity within an organisation.
• Operational & Financial Expertise: Strong financial competence, including income generation as well as budget management and forecasting.
• Governance Experience: A track record of working effectively with and reporting to a Board or governing body to ensure strong governance, transparency and comply with all relevant legal regulatory and Charity Act requirements.
• Staff Leadership: To maintain a supportive, positive and committed performance culture, and ensure effective recruitment, development, performance management and wellbeing of staff.

How to Apply

If you have any queries or wish to have an informal discussion about the opportunity, please contact our retained advisors at Prospectus, Omar Begg or Erica Ritchie via email with a copy of your CV.

Recruitment Timetable

• DEADLINE FOR APPLICATIONS: 12th July
• INTERVIEWS WITH PROSPECTUS: 20th – 31st July
• INTERVIEWS WITH WIMBLEDON GUILD: Week Commencing 10th August

Everyone deserves good mental health.

The Mental Health Foundation is the UK's leading charity focused on the prevention of poor mental health. For more than 75 years, we have combined research, policy, campaigning and public engagement to challenge the causes of poor mental health and drive lasting change.

Today, mental health outcomes across the UK are worsening, particularly for children and young people. While services remain focused on responding to crisis, we believe prevention must become the foundation of the UK's approach to mental health. Our new five-year strategy, ‘A Call to Act: Fighting for Prevention in Mental Health’ sets out an ambitious vision to achieve that change.

Why we are recruiting

After eight successful years, our current Chief Executive will be stepping down, creating an exciting opportunity for a new leader to guide the Foundation through its next phase of growth and impact.

The organisation enters this transition from a position of strength: a clear and ambitious strategy, a talented and committed team of around 70 staff across the UK, strong finances, a respected national profile, a supportive Board and committed Chair.

The opportunity

As Chief Executive, you will be the chief ambassador of the Foundation. You will lead the delivery of our new strategy, strengthen our influence with governments, policymakers and partners, and ensure we continue to grow our impact and income.

Working closely with the Board, a highly capable Senior Leadership Team, supporters and partners, you will champion prevention as the solution to the UK's mental health crisis, helping to shape policy, public understanding and systemic change across our priority areas:

· Championing prevention: so that we can prevent mental health problems before they take root, tackling the causes instead of waiting to treat the symptoms.

· Online worlds: so that people are protected from harm and are more mentally healthy in their online activity.

· Bullying and discrimination: so that children and young people are protected from the life-long harms these can lead to.

· Working lives: so that young people can thrive in mentally-healthy workplaces that support their wellbeing.

This is an opportunity to lead one of the UK's most respected charities and improve the lives of millions of people.

Who we are looking for

We are seeking an inspiring, values-driven leader with the credibility, ambition and vision to take the Foundation forward.

You will bring:

• Significant senior leadership experience as a CEO, Executive Director or similar SLT role
• A proven track record of leading organisational growth, impact and fundraising success
• Outstanding communication and strategic partnership-building skills
• Experience of engaging and influencing senior stakeholders, policymakers, funders and the media, to effect change
• Strong strategic, financial and organisational leadership capability
• A collaborative leadership style that empowers and develops others
• A commitment to equity, inclusion and the Foundation's values

Knowledge of mental health, public health, prevention, related research, or campaigning would be highly advantageous, though we welcome applications from candidates with transferable leadership experience and relevant insights from closely adjacent or intersecting sectors.

Join us

This is a rare opportunity to lead a nationally respected organisation at a pivotal moment for mental health in the UK. If you are passionate about creating long-term social change and have the leadership skills to inspire people, influence systems and deliver impact at scale, we would love to hear from you.

To read more about the organisation and role, please download the full appointment brief.

Together, we can build a future where everyone can live with the good mental health they deserve.

Closing date: 16 August 2026

People Beyond Profit Conversations: 20-31 August 2026

Mental Health Foundation Interviews:

• First Stage: 7 September 2026 (in-Person)
• Second Stage: 14 September 2026 (In-Person)

Last year, 124,000 young people approached their council for help because they were homeless or at risk of homelessness. The figure has risen year-on-year for eight consecutive years, highlighting the scale of a challenge that continues to affect young people across the UK. Yet we believe the resources, expertise and influence already exist within the built environment sector to help tackle youth homelessness. That is where LandAid comes in.

We bring together the UK property industry, harnessing its capital, assets, skills and networks to help end youth homelessness. We do this by awarding grants to frontline charities, providing financial support, brokering free professional advice and expertise, and creating opportunities for our partners to make a meaningful difference to the lives of young people.

The Chief Financial and Operating Officer plays a critical role in helping us achieve our ambitions. A key member of the Leadership Team, you will ensure we have the financial insight, operational effectiveness and governance frameworks needed to deliver our strategy successfully. A key priority will be to provide high-quality management information, analysis and forecasting that supports confident decision-making across the organisation.

You will also help us continue to strengthen our internal operations, driving continuous improvement and ensuring our systems, processes and technology support a more efficient, evidence-led organisation. Working closely with our Board committees, you will oversee financial stewardship, risk management and governance, helping to ensure LandAid remains resilient and well positioned for future growth and impact. Beyond finance, you will oversee our outsourced HR and IT functions, ensuring we receive high-quality and cost-effective support and have robust systems and policies in place, while also helping us continue our commitment to being an excellent place to work.

We are looking for a qualified accountant who brings senior finance leadership experience, either at executive director level within an organisation of similar scale or at deputy director level within a larger organisation. Experience within the charity sector would be valuable, as would knowledge of the built environment, capital investment or social investment. Most importantly, we are looking for someone who combines technical expertise with a collaborative leadership style; someone colleagues trust, learn from and enjoy working with.

Diversity in all its forms matters to us, and we especially welcome applications from qualified women, people who are from black and minority communities, who are LGBTQ+, who live with a disability, and/or haven’t been privately educated.

Our people are our greatest asset and you would be joining an exceptional team united by a shared commitment to ending youth homelessness. If that mission resonates with you, we would love to hear from you.

To download a full copy of the candidate brief and learn more about the role, please click the ‘Apply’ button, where you will be redirected to the website of our recruitment partner, Tall Roots. 

Applications should include a CV and cover letter (no more than two pages), explaining your motivation for applying for the role, along with how you meet the Knowledge & Experience section of the Person Specification.

NOTE UPDATED CLOSING DATE OF MONDAY 6TH JULY AT 0900HRS

CASEwork is a growing finance shared service centre working exclusively with charities and not-for-profit organisations. Due to a significant growth in our charity clients in 2026, we are now seeking a Financial Controller to lead our team, reporting to our Finance Director.

What we offer

• Fully remote working
• 28 days annual leave, plus bank holidays
• Flexible working arrangements around home life and caring responsibilities
• 4–5 days per week, with working pattern open to discussion
• A values-led organisation working only with charities
• The opportunity to shape a growing finance shared service centre
• A varied role across multiple charity clients
• A supportive, practical and improvement-focused working environment

Why join CASEwork?

This is a chance to take on a senior finance role with real influence.

You will help shape how CASEwork delivers finance support to charities, strengthen the quality of our work, support a growing team, and improve the systems and processes that sit behind our client service.

If you are a charity finance professional who enjoys detail, likes making things better and wants to use your finance skills to support the charity sector, we would love to hear from you.

How to apply

Please download our job description and person specification. Send us your CV and a covering letter which clearly evidences how you meet the person specification.

Contract: Full-time, permanent
Hours: Full-time
Reports to: Chair; Board of Directors 
Location: Hackney
Salary: £50,000-60,000 depending on experience.
Pension: HSoF participates in the National Employment Savings Trust (NEST) pension scheme and contributes 3%.
Benefits: 25 days’ annual leave plus bank holidays, free onsite lunches .
Probation period: Six months.

About Hackney School of Food

Hackney School of Food is an award-winning food education hub based in the grounds of Mandeville Primary School in Clapton, East London. Through our teaching kitchen and educational garden, we help children, families and communities build the skills, confidence and knowledge to grow, cook and eat good food.

Each year, we welcome more than 10,000 visits to our kitchen and garden, delivering curriculum programmes for schools alongside community cooking courses, gardening projects, holiday clubs, corporate volunteering and public events. Since becoming a Community Interest Company (CIC) in 2023, we have expanded our facilities, strengthened our governance and built a strong reputation as a leader in food education.

We're now looking for an exceptional Managing Director to build on these strong foundations and lead Hackney School of Food through its next phase of growth and impact.

About the role

Reporting to the Board of Directors, the Managing Director (MD) will provide both strategic and operational leadership, ensuring the organisation delivers its mission while remaining financially resilient, well-governed and responsive to the needs of the communities it serves.

The Managing Director is responsible for all aspects of the organisation, including strategy, income generation, finance, governance, partnerships, programme delivery and people leadership. Working closely with a small, committed team and an engaged Board, they will build on strong foundations to grow Hackney School of Food's impact, reach and long-term sustainability.

This is a varied, hands-on leadership role for someone who enjoys balancing big-picture thinking with practical delivery. One day you may be developing a new partnership, meeting a prospective funder or working with the Board on future strategy; the next you could be supporting the team, welcoming visitors to the garden or solving day-to-day operational challenges.

Key priorities

In your first 12 months you will:

• Build on Hackney School of Food's strong foundations to deliver the next phase of our strategy and growth.

• Increase and diversify income through fundraising, partnerships and commercial opportunities to strengthen long-term sustainability.

• Lead, support and develop a small, ambitious team, fostering a positive and inclusive culture where people can thrive.

• Strengthen relationships with funders, partners and local businesses, helping Hackney School of Food deepen its impact.

• Work closely with the Board to embed strong governance, organisational systems and long-term planning for the future.

Key Responsibilities

Strategic Leadership 

• Provide overall leadership and strategic direction for Hackney School of Food, ensuring delivery of its mission, vision and long-term objectives. 

• Lead the development and implementation of Hackney School of Food's annual business plan and organisational priorities.

• Work with the Board to evolve organisational strategy, identify opportunities, manage risks and support sustainable growth.

• Monitor, report on and respond to organisational performance against agreed objectives and impact measures. 

• Champion Hackney School of Food externally, strengthening its profile and influence.
   

Financial sustainability and income generation 

• Oversee organisational budgeting, financial planning, forecasting and cashflow management, working closely with the Treasurer and accountant.

• Lead income generation across the organisation, including trusts and foundations, corporate partnerships, sponsorship and earned income.

• Build and maintain strong relationships with funders, sponsors and strategic partners.

• Ensure all funding commitments are met, including grant reporting, monitoring and evaluation requirements.

• Identify new opportunities to diversify income and strengthen long-term financial sustainability.

Partnerships & External Relations

• Act as the main point of contact for HSoF’s key partners, LEAP Federation and Chefs in Schools to ensure the partnerships are effective and positive.

• Build and maintain strong relationships with other key stakeholders, including local authorities, funders and sponsors.

• Represent Hackney School of Food at meetings, events, and public forums.

• Champion the value of food education and contribute to wider local and national conversations. 

• Ensure programmes remain responsive to community needs through ongoing engagement and consultation. 

Governance and public benefit 

• Ensure the organisation operates in line with its CIC objectives and delivers clear public benefit. 

• Support the Board of Directors to fulfil its governance responsibilities through high-quality reporting, planning and decision-making.

• Prepare Board papers, reports and agendas, ensuring timely and accurate information is available to support effective governance.

• Oversee and report on organisational performance to the Board of Directors quarterly.

• Act as the primary link between the Board and the operational team.

• Maintain effective governance, delegated authority and accountability frameworks. 

• Support the Board in meeting all statutory and regulatory obligations relating to the CIC.

People, Culture and safeguarding

• Provide leadership to a small core team (currently c.4 employees), directly managing staff and fostering a positive, inclusive culture. 

• Provide oversight and support for a wider network of approx. 15 freelance contractors to ensure consistently high-quality delivery.

• Lead recruitment, induction, performance management and professional development in line with safer recruitment and equality principles. 

• Ensure effective organisational structures, clear roles, and performance accountability.

• Oversee HR processes including appraisals, performance management, and professional development.

• Act as Designated Safeguarding Lead, embedding safeguarding throughout the organisation maintaining compliance with all relevant requirements. 

• Develop organisational systems, policies and practices that support an inclusive, high-performing workplace.

Risk Management & Compliance

• Maintain and regularly review the organisational Risk Register and report key risks and mitigations to the Board.

• Oversee organisational policies, procedures and continuous improvement, ensuring policies and legal requirements are up to date, clearly communicated and embedded across the organisation. 

• Ensure compliance with employment law, health and safety, safeguarding, GDPR and other relevant legislation. 

Personal specification

Essential experience 

• Senior leadership experience with responsibility for organisational performance and accountability. 

• Experience securing income through fundraising, partnerships and/or commercial activity.

• Experience of financial leadership, including budget setting, forecasting and cashflow oversight.

• Experience working closely with a Board, Trustees or governing body to translate strategic vision into operational delivery. 

• Experience building and managing successful partnerships with funders, businesses and community stakeholders. 

• Experience in managing and motivating a team, creating a positive and inclusive workplace culture. 

• Experience of governance, compliance and organisational risk management.

• Experience of safeguarding within an education, youth or community context.

• Excellent organisational skills, with the ability to prioritise competing demands, make sound decisions and remain resilient in a resource-constrained environment.

Essential skills and attributes

• Passion for Hackney School of Food's mission and the role of food education in improving health, wellbeing and community connection. 

• Strategic thinker who is equally comfortable with hands-on operational leadership. 

• Entrepreneurial, resourceful and committed to building long-term financial sustainability and identifying growth opportunities.

• Ability to lead a team through change with sensitivity, clarity and kindness.

• Strong communicator with excellent relationship-building skills. 

• Confident decision-maker with a high level of personal accountability. 

• Committed to equity, inclusion and community-led practice.

Desirable 

• Experience working within a Community Interest Company (CIC), social enterprise or charity.

• Knowledge of Hackney, its communities and local stakeholder landscape.

• Experience of working in food education, community food, gardening, environmental education or a related field.

• Experience reviewing and managing contracts, service agreements or other legal documentation.

An inclusive workplace

We know that diverse teams make stronger organisations and are committed to building a workforce that reflects the communities we serve. We are committed to fair and inclusive recruitment and will consider all qualified applicants regardless of age, disability, gender identity, marriage or civil partnership status, pregnancy or maternity, race, religion or belief, sex or sexual orientation.

We particularly encourage applications from people who are under-represented in our sector and in leadership roles, including people from the global majority and those whose lived experience brings valuable perspectives from the communities we serve. We also welcome applications from people who live in Hackney or East London.

How to apply

The deadline to apply is Monday 20 July at 9am. Please apply by filling out this application form.

You'll find the link to the application form on our Recruitment Pack which provides more information. 

Stage 1: A one-hour online interview with the Senior Team and Board (24 July) 

Stage 2: On-site interview at Hackney School of Food (30 July), including a short presentation. 

We may also invite the preferred candidate to an informal meeting with the wider team and Board before making a final appointment. 

The successful applicant will need to pass an enhanced DBS check and provide two suitable references. 

We may close the application window earlier if we are inundated with applications, so please don't wait to apply.

If you have any questions about the role or your suitability, please feel free to get in touch with us. You will find a Recruitment pack and email address to contact via our website.

The Head of Change leads the development, coordination and delivery of the Foundation’s strategic change portfolio. Reporting to the Director of Transformation, this role provides expert direction on organisational change initiatives, ensures alignment with strategic priorities, and builds a culture where transformation is understood, embraced and delivered confidently across the organisation. 

The Head of Change acts as the Foundation’s change leader, helping to shape strategy, establishing structures for high-quality programme delivery, and ensuring teams are ready and supported through change. This includes oversight of the Change team, taking a lead on cross-Foundation change initiatives, and ensuring all strategic programmes are governed effectively. 
This role is cross-organisational, working closely with the Chief People & Transformation Officer on the operating model, the Chief Financial Officer and the Director of Transformation on planning and delivery. 

This role delivers a transformational, organisation-wide approach to change, grounded in best practice, and provides a high-quality, consistent programme delivery through a strengthened PMO capability. The Head of Change delivers improved organisational staff readiness and staff confidence during periods of change, and produces clear, measurable outcomes across the Foundation’s strategic transformation priorities. This role also helps to foster a culture that embraces innovation, adaptability, and continuous improvement. 

Key Responsibilities 

Strategic Change Leadership

• Define, lead and manage the organisation-wide strategic change programme, ensuring alignment with the Foundation’s mission and long-term goals.
• Develop the strategic change governance forum, providing oversight, challenge and direction.
• Work with the Executive Team, senior stakeholders, and programme leads to ensure clarity of change objectives and secure stakeholder buy-in.
• Working with the Chief Financial Officer, oversee organisational planning, delivery and monitoring of key KPIs.
• Foster a culture of change readiness, adaptability, and continuous improvement, ensuring clear alignment with the Foundation’s overarching decision-making framework. 

Programme & Portfolio Management 

• Oversee a portfolio of high-profile strategic projects, ensuring consistent delivery standards and measurable outcomes.
• Lead and mature the Foundation’s project framework to support governance, reporting, assurance and delivery quality.
• Ensure that the organisation has the necessary resources – people, technology and budget – to implement change initiatives without creating bottlenecks or overwhelming Business As Usual operations.
• Monitor progress and evaluate the impact of change initiatives, adjusting the approach to achieve outcomes. 

Leadership & People

• Manage and mentor the Change team, building a high-performing group of change specialists.
• Cultivate collaboration across teams, ensuring consistent approaches to change management and project delivery. 

Stakeholder Engagement & Communication 

• Partner with senior stakeholders to build alignment, engagement and ownership across change programmes.
• Lead delivery of change communications and engagement plans, ensuring clarity, consistency and accessibility.
• Act as a trusted advisor to senior leaders, offering challenge, insight and strategic guidance. 

Change Management Practice

• Conduct enterprise-level change impact and readiness assessments.
• Design and implement training, coaching and resources for leaders and teams undergoing change. Ensure change methodologies, tools, and frameworks are embedded and consistently applied.
• Support the Chief People & Transformation Officer with organisational design activities, including target operating model development and capability mapping. 

Financial & Risk Management 

• Manage project and programme budgets effectively.
• Identify risks, interdependencies and issues across the change portfolio and develop mitigation plans. Ensure compliance with relevant regulatory, governance and audit requirements. 

Role responsibilities are not exhaustive, and you would be reasonably expected to take on wider tasks that are commensurate with the level of your role. 

Skills Knowledge and Expertise

Skills, abilities, and attributes:

• Self-starter who is adaptable, works with integrity and exhibits the Foundation’s core values.
• Committed to the principle of continuous improvement, with careful attention to detail and due process.
• Committed to delivering consistent and high-quality customer service to both internal and external stakeholders.
• Good interpersonal skills and able to effectively liaise with both internal and external communities.
• Exceptional communication and stakeholder management skills.
• Strong leadership skills with the ability to motivate, inspire, challenge and influence. 
• Excellent analytical skills with the ability to translate complex concepts into actionable plans.
• Financial acumen and experience managing significant budgets.
• Comfortable operating in fast-paced, ambiguous and highly collaborative environments. 
• Strong influencing skills with senior stakeholders, including C-suite and Board-level relationships.

Knowledge, experience, and qualifications: 

• Experience in delivering large-scale transformation within complex organisations (charity, private, public sector, healthcare or equivalent).
• Exposure to digital transformation, innovation programmes or organisation design.
• Proven track record leading enterprise-wide change and readiness programmes.
• Demonstrable experience building and leading PMO functions.
• Experience managing multidisciplinary teams and driving cultural and behavioural change.
• Experience operating within matrixed, multi-disciplinary or multi-site environments.
• Proficient, with recognised successes, in working with industry best practice project and change methodologies (e.g. Agile, PRINCE2, PMP, Prosci/ADKAR, CCMP). 

Benefits

• Contributory pension
• Annual personal development budget
• Annual health and wellbeing personal allowance
• Enhanced maternity, paternity, and parental leave pay accessible without length of service requirements.
• Health and wellbeing programme that offers optional free yearly health check-ups.
• Support for healthy eating via fruit bowls and onsite lunch facilities. 
• Agile working, flexible hours, and supportive IT kit. 
• Shower facilities and bike lock area. 
• Generous annual leave (27 days + bank holidays)
• Subsidies for glasses
• Employee Assistance Programme

Chief Executive - King George and Queen's Hospitals Charity (KGQHC)

Location: Hybrid, with strong on-site presence
Salary: £80,000 - £100,000
Type: Full-time

About King George and Queen's Hospitals Charity

King George and Queen's Hospitals Charity plays a vital role in supporting patients, staff and communities across Barking & Dagenham, Havering and Redbridge. The charity funds projects that go beyond NHS provision - investing in equipment, innovation, environments, research and staff wellbeing to enhance patient care and experience.

Now operating as an independent organisation, the charity is entering a pivotal phase - with the opportunity to build on strong foundations, deepen community connections and significantly expand its impact. This is an opportunity to shape a growing NHS charity at a defining moment in its journey - building a confident, sustainable organisation that will improve health outcomes and experiences for thousands of people every year.

What You Can Look Forward To

As Chief Executive, you will lead the charity through its next phase of development - balancing immediate delivery with long-term strategic ambition.

You will:

• Shape Strategy and Build for the Future
• Strengthen Fundraising and Income Generation
• Lead and Develop a High-Performing Team
• Enhance Grant-Making and Impact
• Build Trusted Partnerships and Profile
• Strengthen Governance and Operations

Why This Role Matters

• Your work will have a direct and visible impact on patient care and community health
• You will build an organisation that is values-led, inclusive and sustainable
• You will operate at the heart of a complex and rewarding NHS environment
• Your leadership will leave a lasting legacy across local communities and healthcare services

About You

We are looking for a values-driven leader who combines strategic vision with a hands-on, practical approach.

Skills and Experience

• Significant senior leadership experience (CEO, Director or equivalent) in a charity, public service or similarly complex environment
• A track record of leading organisations through growth, transition or transformation
• Strong understanding of fundraising and income generation strategy
• Experience of working with Boards and governance structures
• Credibility in stakeholder management and external representation
• Financial and operational acumen, with the ability to build effective systems and infrastructure

Personal Attributes

• Strategic, thoughtful and future-focused
• Empathetic, resilient and emotionally intelligent
• Collaborative and inclusive in leadership style
• Comfortable operating at both strategic and operational levels
• A strong communicator with credibility across diverse audiences
• Passionate about improving health outcomes and community wellbeing

Recruitment Timeline

To ensure equitable access to information and uphold KGQHC's commitment to Equity, Diversity and Inclusion, the charity will be hosting a Q&A webinar in place of individual informal calls with the Chair/Outgoing CEO. We encourage all interested candidates to submit questions in advance, which will be addressed during the session. Please register your interest in attending this webinar on Thursday 16th July 2026 6.30-7.30pm and we will send you a link.

Application Deadline: 5pm Monday 22nd July 2026

First Interviews: w/c 17th August 2026

Final Interviews: w/c 24th August 2026

How to Apply

Charity People Ltd is acting as a recruitment agency advisor to KGQHC on this appointment. Interested candidates are invited to submit a CV to Senior Appointments at Charity Peopl and request a candidate pack in the first instance.

For an informal conversation about the role or if you have further questions prior to applying, please contact Fabrice Yala at Charity People

We want you to have every opportunity to demonstrate your skills, ability, and potential; please contact us if you require any assistance or adjustment so we can help make the application process work for you.

Charity People is a forward thinking, inclusive organisation that actively and deliberately promotes equity, diversity and inclusion. We know organisations thrive when inclusion is at the forefront. We evidence our commitment by matching charity needs with the skills and experience of candidates irrespective of background e.g. age, disability (including hidden disabilities), gender, gender identity or gender reassignment, marriage and civil partnership, pregnancy and maternity, race, religion or belief, or sexual orientation. We do this because we believe that greater diversity leads to greater results for the charities we work with.