Chief financial officer jobs

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)

Lead the next 60 years of animal welfare at Wythall by joining the sanctuary as Chief Executive.

Location: Hybrid / Wythall, Worcestershire (at least 3 days per week onsite)

Applications close: 9 a.m. Monday 27th July 2026

About Wythall Animal Sanctuary

Since 1968, Wythall Animal Sanctuary has provided safety, care and second chances to animals in need.

We are an independent, non-destruct animal sanctuary with a proud history, a strong local reputation and a deeply committed community of employees, volunteers, supporters and donors. From our multi-acre site near Solihull, we rescue, rehabilitate and rehome and provide sanctuary to dogs, cats, rabbits and ponies. We provide lifelong care to animals who cannot be rehomed and operate boarding kennels that generate important commercial income.

We are now looking for a Chief Executive Officer to help us build on these strong foundations and lead the charity into its next chapter.

About the role

As our CEO, you will work in close partnership with the Board translating long-term vision into clear priorities, measurable outcomes and practical delivery plans.

The Board is looking for someone who will bring insight and constructive challenge, rather than simply agree with an established position. You will use evidence, financial understanding and operational knowledge to help determine what is achievable and where investment will make the greatest difference and when priorities need to change.

This is not a role that will operate at a distance from the organisation and you will need a willingness to become involved in delivery.

The person we are looking for

We are looking for an ambitious, values-led and commercially astute leader who can combine vision with practical delivery.

You might already be an established Chief Executive, or you may be an experienced senior leader ready to take on your first CEO appointment. Previous experience within animal welfare is welcome but is not essential.

This is a working animal sanctuary. It can be busy, unpredictable and occasionally messy. We need a CEO who is equally comfortable shaping long-term strategy with Trustees, as navigating operational challenges and engaging directly with employees, volunteers and the animals in our care.

Please click on the link to be redirected to the Peridot Partners website, where you will find full details of the role and how to apply.

Applications for this role close at 9 a.m. Monday 27th July 2026.

Sightsavers is seeking a Financial Controller to provide senior leadership across our global finance function, ensuring robust financial governance, effective controls and high-quality financial management across a complex international organisation.

Reporting to the Chief Operating Officer, you will lead the Global Finance Team and oversee key areas including business finance, subsidiaries finance, treasury, statutory accounting, audit, finance systems and continuous improvement. You will play an important role in ensuring that our finance function is well controlled, responsive, efficient and able to support colleagues across our global programmes and operations.

This is an opportunity for an experienced finance leader who can combine technical expertise with inclusive and confident people leadership. You will be able to develop high-performing teams, review and improve ways of working, support change and make balanced decisions that strengthen finance capability and service delivery.

You will bring a recognised professional accounting qualification, senior financial management experience, strong knowledge of financial controls and statutory accounting, and the ability to communicate complex financial information clearly to senior stakeholders and non-finance colleagues. Experience of working in a charity, INGO, donor-funded or complex international environment would be an advantage.

Please read the full job description for further requirements.

Candidates must already have the right to work in the UK, as Sightsavers is unable to provide employer sponsorship for this role.

Sightsavers is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of everyone we work with. Due to the seniority and nature of this role, the successful candidate will be expected to undertake relevant background checks, which may include a DBS check, in line with organisational policy and the requirements of the role.

We particularly welcome applications from people with disabilities and from candidates with diverse backgrounds. We are committed to creating an inclusive recruitment process and will provide reasonable adjustments where needed.

To apply for this exciting opportunity, please complete an application via our recruitment portal by uploading an up to date CV and answering the job-specific questions. We are particularly interested in learning of your motivations for applying.

We anticipate that there will be a two -stage interview process starting in early September. This will include a role-specific presentation task and the final stage interview will be held in-person at our offices in Haywards Heath, West Sussex. Ideally we would like the successful candidate to be in post by Q4 of 2026 and attendance at the annual planning meeting in mid-November would be very helpful.

CHIEF EXECUTIVE

Strength and Learning Through Horses (SLTH) is a London-based charity transforming the lives of vulnerable young people through equine-assisted therapy and education services. 

As Chief Executive, you will lead the organisation into its next chapter. Reporting to the Board, you will bring operational leadership, drive organisational development, grow and diversify income, oversee site development, strengthen governance, and oversee financial performance, planning and sustainability. You will also act as ambassador, building partnerships and profile.

Essentials:

• Significant senior leadership experience (CEO, Deputy CEO, COO or equivalent) in the charity, education, health, youth or social care sectors
• Strong background in operational excellence, strategy, governance and organisational development
• Experience representing an organisation externally and leading diverse teams
• Demonstrable financial stewardship, working knowledge of day-to-day HR policies and processes, and an understanding of safeguarding responsibilities

Benefits:

• Flexible working 
• Opportunity to lead a high-impact, specialist charity 

This role will suit a senior leader with a track record in growth, income generation and team leadership, who is bold, ambitious and passionate about improving the lives of vulnerable young people. Are you ready to scale impact while protecting what makes a charity special?

Please see the candidate pack for full details. For an informal and confidential discussion about the role, please contact: Katherine Anderson-Scott, Executive Director of Charisma Charity Recruitment.

Location: Greengates Stables, Mays Lane, Barnet, EN5 2AQ / hybrid - 3 days a week on-site

Closing date: Thursday 6th August 2026
Charisma vetting interviews will be completed on a rolling basis. 
Please note: the SLTH interview process with be 3 stages, with the final 1 or 2 candidates invited back for an on-site visit, which will involve the whole staff team and young people/professionals/parents and carers.

We welcome and encourage applications from people of all backgrounds. We do not discriminate on the basis of disability, race, colour, ethnicity, gender, religion, sexual orientation, age, veteran status or other category protected by law.

Lead one of the world's oldest and most influential human rights organisations

Chief Executive

Salary: £93,600 per annum
London | Hybrid working

Our client is one of the world's oldest human rights organisations. For almost 200 years, it has worked to end slavery in all its forms, partnering with survivors, civil society, governments and businesses to influence laws, policy and practice that create lasting systemic change.

As our client enters an exciting new chapter, they are seeking an exceptional Chief Executive to lead the organisation through its next phase of impact.

This is a rare opportunity to lead an internationally respected organisation at a pivotal point in its journey. With a renewed strategic direction, a committed Board and an experienced senior leadership team, the successful candidate will build on strong foundations to strengthen organisational capability, foster a high-performing culture and maximise the organisation's impact in an increasingly complex global environment.

Working closely with the Board, staff, partners and supporters, you will provide strategic, financial and organisational leadership while acting as a compelling ambassador for the organisation. You will build trusted relationships across government, philanthropy, civil society and business, ensuring the organisation continues to influence policy, practice and public understanding of modern slavery.

We are interested in hearing from leaders who bring:

• Significant executive leadership experience, with responsibility for organisational strategy, people, finance and fundraising.
• A track record of leading organisational development, building high-performing teams and leading positive cultural change.
• The ability to build trusted relationships, influence senior stakeholders and represent an organisation with credibility and impact.
• Experience of securing sustainable income and developing strong funding partnerships.
• Strong financial and strategic judgement, balancing long-term ambition with effective operational delivery.
• A commitment to the organisation's mission and the leadership qualities to inspire people, build confidence and deliver lasting impact.

Whilst an understanding of the organisation's mission is important, our client is first and foremost seeking an exceptional organisational leader. Applications are welcomed from candidates both within and beyond the modern slavery sector who can demonstrate the leadership capability to guide the organisation through its next chapter.

This is an opportunity to lead an organisation with a remarkable history, work alongside exceptional colleagues and partners, and help shape a future where everyone can live free from slavery.

To find out more about the role and how to apply, please view the appointment brief located below the advert on the Prospectus website.

Recruitment Timetable

Deadline for applications: Sunday 9th August
Prospectus interviews: Weeks commencing 17th August and 24th August
Engagement calls with the Interim CEO: 7th and 8th September
Board panel interviews (in person): Monday 14th September

Chief Executive, Money Ready
Based in our London hub with regular UK-wide travel
£90k – £110k

Money Ready – formerly MyBnk – has been making a genuine difference to people’s financial lives for nearly twenty years. We work with children in primary schools, young adults navigating their first jobs and first tenancies, and adults facing some of the hardest financial moments of their lives.

And the need for what we do has never been more urgent. Only 40% of young people aged 16 to 24 feel confident managing their money. More than six in ten do not recall receiving any financial education at school. Poor financial literacy sits at the heart of homelessness, unemployment and declining mental health.

We are here to change that, because the language of money is a language for life, and everyone deserves to speak it.

Our current CEO leaves Money Ready financially stable, strategically clear, and with a Senior Leadership Team that is experienced and proud of what they have built together. So it’s an excellent time to join us for the next chapter, and capitalise on the strong foundations that are already in place. This is a role for someone who knows how to lead an organisation that is already strong, with the care and confidence to make it excellent.

We are looking for a leader who combines genuine strategic ambition with the warmth and emotional intelligence that earns trust quickly: from our team, our funders, the policymakers we need to influence, and the young people and adults at the heart of everything we do. We want someone who understands that culture is a core part of the work. And we want someone who is energised by the prospect of leading an organisation that is performing well – and helping it reach its next level of excellence.

We believe that financial education is a right, not a privilege. If that resonates with you, this could be exactly the next step you’re looking for.

Community Foundations for Lancashire and Merseyside is a long established Liverpool based charity, that is part of a UK wide network of Foundations, who each offer expertise in their region to deliver funding and support to the local community.

This is an exciting opportunity to join our established finance team, you will be helping to deliver millions of pounds of grants to charities and community groups that provide critical and specialist support to the most vulnerable people across Lanchashire and Merseyside. 

Additionally you will be responsible for all aspects of purchase ledger and will support the Finance Director on a day to day basis, maintaining finance records with a very high degree of accuracy. Whilst your role has a strong emphasis on payments, you may be required to support the team in dealing with recording income too. 

To succeed in this role you need to be thorough with a strong attention to detail. We are looking for someone with a genuine interest in community affairs and being excited by the work we do. Being familiar with Sage 50 and Salesforce is an advantage but not essential.

This is a part time role, 14 hours per week, which is office based, in the centre of Liverpool's commercial district.

What we offer : 

• 30 days annual leave plus bank holidays (pro-rata for part time hours)
• Birthday day off 
• Enhanced pension contributions 
• Healthcare - membership paid to Medicash 
• Life assurance 
• Flexible working is a possiblity 
• Real Living Wage accredited

No agencies please 

Lead a pioneering organisation transforming refugee lives through employment

Chief Executive

Salary: £95k–£99k (including London Weighting)

Location: London | Regular travel to Birmingham, Manchester and other parts of the UK; minimum 60% office-based, with a greater office presence expected initially.

This mission-driven charity supports refugees to build new lives through meaningful employment. Since 2015, it has helped thousands of individuals gain skills, confidence and access to work—unlocking financial independence, purpose and long-term opportunity.

With over 500,000 refugees now living in the UK and facing significant barriers to employment, the need for high-quality, targeted support has never been greater. The organisation works with individuals, employers and partners to create pathways into sustainable employment while driving systemic change across the sector.

We are now seeking an exceptional Chief Executive to lead the organisation into its next phase of impact.

This is a rare opportunity to lead a nationally recognised charity at a pivotal moment. With responsibility for strategy, operations, partnerships and fundraising, the CEO will work closely with the Board of Trustees and Senior Leadership Team to scale impact, deepen employer and funder relationships, and ensure the organisation continues to deliver high-quality, life-changing support.

As the public face of the charity, you will play a critical role in building influence, championing the power of employment to transform lives, and strengthening partnerships across business, philanthropy, government and civil society.

We are interested in hearing from leaders who bring:

• Significant experience as a Chief Executive, or as a senior leader within a large social impact organisation.
• Experience developing and implementing organisational strategy, including vision-setting and leading associated change management.
• Significant experience developing strategic partnerships with corporate funders and partner organisations to drive income growth and create employment opportunities for beneficiaries.
• The ability to motivate and inspire staff and volunteers at all levels to maximise their contribution to the organisation's mission.
• Outstanding communication skills, with the credibility to influence senior stakeholders and represent the organisation externally.
• A deep commitment to equity, inclusion and embedding lived experience in decision-making and organisational culture.
• Experience operating within charity governance frameworks and working effectively with Boards.

This is an opportunity to lead a talented and committed team, work alongside an ambitious Board, and make a profound difference to the lives of refugees across the UK.

To find out more about the role and how to apply, please view the appointment brief on Prospectus website.

Recruitment Timetable

Closing date: 9th August
Interviews with Prospectus: Week commencing 24th August
Interviews with Breaking Barriers: 11th September

This is an exciting opportunity for a new leader to guide the organisation through its next phase of development, building from a position of strength. The organisation is in the first year of a clear and ambitious three-year strategy, with a strong core team of staff and a healthy financial position.

The outgoing Executive Director was previously also the organisation’s Advocacy Director, and continued to deliver both functions within one role. For this reason the Board of Trustees is advertising the position in two configurations. Applicants are welcome to express an interest in either:

• Option A — Part-time Executive Director. A 0.6 FTE part-time post which is a leadership and management role only, and does not include delivering the advocacy activities of the organisation. These will be undertaken by a separate part-time Advocacy Director, who carries the advocacy responsibilities covered by the associated Advocacy Director job description.

• Option B — Full-time Executive Director. A single full-time post in which the successful candidate takes on both the part-time Executive Director role and the responsibilities of the part-time Advocacy Director role being advertised concurrently. The successful candidate must meet the person specification requirements of BOTH roles.

Location: Remote

Salary: £29,000 - £32,000 pro rata depending on experience (£17,400 - £19,200)

Hours of work: 3 days (21 hours) per week

Contract type: Fixed, 12-month Maternity Cover

Why work for Kids Matter?

• Generous annual leave – 25 days (plus bank holidays) per year pro rata, with time off between Christmas and New Year's additional to this allowance.
• Remote working contribution – receive £26/month pro rata towards the costs of working from home and/or using a co-working space.
• Access to coaching sessions, training opportunities and our Employee Assistance Programme (a confidential support service for staff).
• Flexible working across weekdays to suit your schedule.

About us

Kids Matter is one of the UK’s fastest growing children’s charities. Our vision is to see every child in need raised in a strong family. Our mission is to reduce the impact of poverty on children through community-based parenting programmes.

Research shows that group-based early intervention parenting groups are the most effective way to support children in need. We train peer facilitators in local churches - the largest voluntary body in the country - to run our affordable, accessible and highly effective parenting programmes, written by Clinical Psychologists. They come alongside parents and carers, building long-lasting community in addition to encouraging confidence and learning positive parenting skills.

We value difference and diversity, and we want our workplace to be built on shared values of equality and mutual trust, with team members representing the wide range of backgrounds and experiences that exist within the UK. We therefore actively encourage applications from people of diverse backgrounds and varied experiences, particularly those who are African, Afro-Caribbean, Asian or part of other minority ethnic communities, who have lived experience of the impact of low-income/low-support circumstances, and who are living with a disability or identify as being neurodivergent.

About the role

The Executive Assistant to the CEO role involves:

• Coordinating and maintaining the CEO's diary including organising all appointments, meetings and travel arrangements.
• Identifying, anticipating and preparing CEO information requirements for meetings, appointments and presentations, following up on internal and external requests for information.
• Managing all administration processes relating to the SLT.
• Supporting the CEO and the Fundraising Team with major donor management, including keeping contacts and actions updated, researching prospective donors, communicating with existing donors, coordinating thank you cards and gifts, and tracking secured donations.

About you

Do you have strong attention to detail and accuracy? Can you use initiative and be proactive? Are you a Christian with an active faith in Jesus? Do you have a passion for Kids Matter’s vision of seeing every child in need raised in a strong family?

Then we would love to hear from you!

How to apply

You can apply for the Executive Assistant to the CEO (maternity cover) position by clicking ‘Apply via Website’ and completing a copy of our online application form.

The deadline for applications is Tuesday 28th July. All successful and unsuccessful applicants will be notified by email.

We also ask for all applicants to submit an Equal Opportunities Monitoring Form, which will be sent to you to complete following the submission of your application. This form will be used for anonymous analysis to ensure our overall recruitment procedures are fair and transparent. It will never be viewed or used as part of the selection process. It is optional to submit this form.

If you would like any application/interview support or you need any reasonable adjustments throughout the application process, or if you would like an informal phone call to ask questions or discuss the role, please contact Katie Washington (HR & Systems Manager).

Please see the job pack for more details on the role and application process.

Our Interim Executive Director will lead JustMoney Movement into the next chapter of our exciting story. The primary focus for the role will be to develop and implement a sustainable future strategy, while providing transitional leadership. 

The JustMoney Movement is a small organisation with a big vision. We are passionate about the role Christians and churches can play in bringing about an economy that works for people and planet.We have a vision of a fairer, greener future, and we believe money is integral to shaping that future. As Christians we believe our use of money should flow from our faith and values such as justice, compassion, the dignity of all, and the importance of caring for creation.  Our current strategic priority is to increase the reach, depth and diversity of engagement of Christian individuals, congregations and networks in the UK with the JustMoney Movement, in order to have a meaningful impact on policy and practice for a fairer, greener future.

Under the leadership of Sarah Edwards, over the past 5 years, we have rebranded from the Ecumenical Council for Corporate Responsibility (ECCR), and grown a substantial profile and programme of education and campaigning work across the UK churches, connecting faith and finance for a fairer, greener world.

We are living in turbulent times where we face interconnected, systemic crises in inequality, nature and the climate, driven by our financial and economic system. We believe our movement building approach, technical expertise, and wide range of collaborations across church, other faith and secular groups, enable us to play a vital role in confronting these crises.

At the same time, small charities face unprecedented challenges at this current moment, and require bold and innovative approaches in order to navigate this context. We are looking for an Interim Executive Director to help us build on this legacy, to secure a sustainable long-term future, while remaining agile and able to seize opportunities as they arise.The role will need to establish a sustainable future strategy and develop our funding strategy, while overseeing the delivery of our current workplan and ensuring sound governance of the charity.

We have a small, dedicated and talented team of staff and contractors delivering the work and a strong, diverse and experienced board, with a new incoming Chair, Simeon Mitchell, who has served as a trustee for a number of years.  We have welcomed four new trustees this year, bringing a wealth of skills, knowledge and enthusiasm.

Interim Executive Director (0.8 FTE, 6 to 12 months)

Salary: £49,493 for 4 days per week (pro rata from FT £61,866).  We have some flexibility to consider 3 days per week.

Location: Hybrid, based at home with option to work 1 day a week in London office. Some travel within the UK.

Contract: 6 to12 months

There is the possibility of a permanent role becoming available at the end of the Interim Executive Director role appointment, subject to funding.

An early, flexible start would be desirable from September/ October 2026.

Given the nature of the role, we are very open to discussions with the right candidate to identify mutually acceptable arrangements for the appointment.

Role description

· Partner with the Board, to develop and deliver JustMoney Movement’s strategy and objectives, rooted in our movement-building theory of change, and our Christian identity, culture and values.  This may include identifying and implementing change, as needed.

· Lead on the creation and delivery of our fundraising strategy to ensure JustMoney Movement’s financial viability for the long-term.  This will build on our current mix of grant funding, alongside our small but long-standing and loyal donor base of individuals and organisational supporters. We need to explore and grow alternative opportunities such as paid services and corporate funding.

· Oversight of operations and finance management, delivered by the Head of Operations.

· Support and empower the JustMoney Movement staff team in the delivery and monitoring of the 26-27 action plan for our education, campaigning and influencing activities. 

· Alongside the Director of Movement Building, represent the organisation externally, seeking opportunities to raise the profile and demonstrate the impact of the organisation, positioning JustMoney Movement as a leading voice on issues of faith and finance.

· Work with the Director of Movement Building to identify and lead on strategic relationships and collaborations with stakeholders, including funders and key partners, in order to achieve our objectives. 

· With the support of the Head of Operations, oversee a strong governance framework to ensure we meet external, legal and regulatory requirements and guidance (including the Charity Governance Code).

Person Specification

Experience:

· Management at board or management level of a charity, and the understanding of the governance requirements this brings

· Developing and implementing a fundraising strategy with a proven track record of raising funds

· Interim or change management, ideally within a small organisation

· People management, ideally within a small organisation, and through change processes

· Strategic planning, monitoring and evaluation for impact

· Working with UK churches (desirable)

· Engaging with questions of economic justice, Christian ethics and/or ethical investment (desirable)

· Campaigning or advocating for social change (desirable)

Knowledge and Skills:

· Degree or equivalent experience in a relevant area (e.g. business, theology, economics)

· Self-motivated with problem solving ability and critical thinking skills

· Outstanding interpersonal, written and verbal communication skills

· A strong “can-do” attitude, combining hands-on skills with a strategic mindset

· Exceptional organisational skills, including attention to detail and the ability to multi-task

· Knowledge of Christian ethical approaches to economic justice/ theology of economics (desirable)

· Understanding of the UK churches context and some of the stakeholders with whom JustMoney Movement works

· Understanding of the financial, governance and legal requirements for charities, and their implementation

· IT skills including use of Office 365 to manage a remote team and its work

· Finance skills to oversee and engage with budgeting and accounts.

Personal Characteristics:

· Commitment to the Christian ethos and values of JustMoney Movement.

· High levels of personal and professional integrity, reflected in respect for others and work ethic

· Passion for social, environmental and economic justice and a desire to see church members engage in it as an expression of faith.

If you would like an informal conversation about the role with the current Executive Director, Sarah Edwards, or incoming Chair Simeon Mitchell, please contact us to arrange.

Please apply with your CV, two references (at least one recent) and a cover letter addressing the person specification by 9am on Monday 10th August

We are seeking an experienced and visionary Director/CEO to help lead a multi-award-winning charity into its next phase of growth and impact.

You will help shape and deliver the organisation’s strategic vision while ensuring the successful delivery of our programmes.  Key responsibilities include:

• Leading strategic planning and organisational growth opportunities
• Developing fundraising and income generation strategies understanding the funding challenges and landscape for the charity sector
• Securing income contracts and partnership opportunities
• Overseeing financial planning, budgeting and reporting
• Leading and supporting a dispersed hybrid team
• Working as an ambassador with funders and stakeholders

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.

About Ataxia UK 

Ataxia’ is an umbrella term for a group of progressive, neurological conditions which involve problems with co-ordination, balance and speech caused by disruption of the messages sent from our brains to our muscles. 

Ataxia UK funds research into cures and treatments for ataxia, including stem cell and gene therapy. By collaborating with ataxia researchers across the globe, and pharmaceutical and research organisations, we’re confident that cures can one day be found. Until then, we work towards getting better treatments for people with ataxia and providing information and  support to everyone affected. Improving their quality of life and helping to slow the progression of the disease.   

About the Role   

As our Financial Controller, you'll lead the day-to-day financial operations of the charity, ensuring robust financial controls, accurate reporting and efficient processes that support our mission. You'll oversee month-end reporting, budgeting, forecasting and financial analysis, providing clear insights to inform decision-making across the organisation. Working closely with colleagues throughout the charity, you'll manage grant and restricted fund reporting, support annual planning, drive continuous improvement in financial systems and processes, and lead a small finance team. You'll also play a key role in ensuring compliance with charity accounting standards, governance requirements and best practice.

About you 

We're looking for a qualified accountant (ACA, ACCA, CIMA ,CIPFA or similar) with at least five years' post-qualification experience and a proven track record in senior finance or audit roles. You'll be confident leading finance operations, managing staff, and turning complex financial information into clear, actionable insights.

You'll bring experience of charity finance, including grant management, restricted and unrestricted funds, and Charity SORP, alongside strong skills in Xero and Excel. Experience with Fathom and Raiser's Edge (or similar CRM/database systems) would be an advantage.

Just as importantly, you'll be passionate about making a difference for people affected by ataxia. You'll understand the barriers faced by disabled people, approach our members with empathy and respect, and share our commitment to equality, inclusion and ethical medical research.

This is an opportunity for a skilled finance professional to use their expertise to help drive our mission and make a meaningful impact.

Benefits of working for us. 

• 25 days annual leave pro rata (rising to 30 with a length of service)
• Extra holiday day for your birthday
• Access to a free Health Plan, Employee Assistance Programme & Employee Hotline
• Flexible hybrid working
• Pension scheme
• Enhanced maternity and co-parental leave
• Cycle to work scheme
• Training and development opportunities
• Accredited Living Wage Employer

Please see full Job Description for further details including Person Specifications. Your covering letter will be used to assess you against the person specification for this role.