Director of finance operations jobs

Title: Director of Finance & Operations

Location: London (hybrid working – minimum two days a week in the office)

Art Fund is seeking a strategic and collaborative Director of Finance & Operations to join its Senior Management Team and help shape the future of the UK’s cultural landscape.

Art Fund is the national fundraising charity for art. With over 142,000 members and a network of 900 museums, galleries, and historic places across the UK, it is a pioneering and independent voice in the cultural sector enriching collections, growing audiences, and advocating for the vital role museums play in society.

This role comes at an exciting and transformative time for the organisation. As Art Fund progresses through the final stages of its 2022/27 strategy and prepares for the next chapter, the Director of Finance and & Operations will play a critical leadership role in helping the organisation scale its impact, drive operational excellence, and support long-term growth.

The opportunity

The Director of Finance and & Operations will provide strategic and operational leadership across the following key areas: finance, people, governance, legal, facilities, and risk. They will lead a multidisciplinary internal services team and work closely with the Director, Senior Management Team, and Board of Trustees.

Major priorities will include embedding a new finance system, supporting the successful delivery of a cross-organisational CRM implementation, and the next five-year strategy and financial plan.

This position requires a qualified accountant with strong strategic planning and commercial acumen, ideally with experience supporting income growth and business innovation in a complex, values-driven organisation. They will be a natural relationship builder with excellent interpersonal, influencing, and communication skills.

While prior experience in the arts, heritage, or charity sectors is welcome, it’ is not essential. What matters most is a genuine passion for Art Fund’s mission to make art and culture accessible to all.

Candidate profile

Art Fund is looking for an individual who can demonstrate:

• Proven success in strategic leadership and financial management
• Strong experience of business planning and income generation
• A collaborative and inclusive leadership style
• A commitment to data-led decision-making and continuous improvement
• Deep understanding of organisational governance, risk, and compliance
• Outstanding team leadership and the ability to foster a positive, values-based workplace culture

What Art Fund offers

Art Fund offers a rewarding working environment, a beautiful canal-side office in King’s Cross, and a compelling benefits package, including:

• 27 days’ annual leave, plus bank holidays
• 10% employer pension contribution
• Free National Art Pass (with a plus one)
• Art Allowance and Art Time to support cultural engagement
• Private healthcare cashback plan
• Flexible hybrid working and home office equipment allowance

Art Fund is committed to equity, diversity and inclusion, and welcomes applications from candidates from all backgrounds.

Allen Lane is acting as an employment agency advisor for The Art Fund on this appointment. For further information about the role, including details about how to apply, please visit Allen Lane website or reach out to Rosemary Pini at Allen Lane.

Timeline:

• Closing date: Wednesday 14th May
• Shortlisting: 28th May
• First interviews: Week commencing 2nd June
• Final Stage Interviews: Week Commencing 9th June and 16th June

Everyone deserves a decent place to live – join Habitat for Humanity Great Britain as our new Director of Finance, Operations & Compliance, and support people to find a safe, affordable home. 

We’re on the lookout for an experienced finance and operations professional, with the energy and drive to lead a team focused on excellent service delivery, continuous improvement and sustainable growth. This is your chance to take charge of a support services team with a real purpose—helping families build a better future through safe and affordable housing.

Reporting to the CEO, you’ll take the lead on all financial, compliance, operational and people support activities.  This role demands a combination of the hands-on approach needed in a medium-sized charity with the strong people management skills to enable all members of your team to deliver high quality services and to thrive in their roles.

You’ll also be working closely with colleagues across the international Habitat network, so good communication and collaboration skills will be key to success in this role. 

Job Title: Director of Finance, Operations & Compliance 

Department: Finance, Operations & Compliance 

Reports to: National Director/CEO 

Budget responsibility: Yes 

Line management: Team of 6, with 3 direct reports (Head of People, Finance Manager, Finance Business Partner) 

Location: Home-based with regular travel to internal meetings and team events, and occasional travel to our registered office in Slough 

About Habitat for Humanity Great Britain 

Habitat for Humanity Great Britain (Habitat GB) is part of the global Habitat for Humanity network fighting global poverty and homelessness. We believe that a decent home helps to permanently break the cycle of poverty and allows families to achieve strength, stability, and self-reliance.

Habitat GB has recently completed a strategic review, resulting in a new National Strategy and an organisational restructure, to ensure the organisation is able to deliver the Strategy impactfully, efficiently and effectively. This has included the integration of a subsidiary entity (GB Homes) into Habitat GB.  As a result, the Finance, Operations & Compliance team has been expanded to ensure the right capacity and capability for these crucial functions.

Habitat’s turnover for the financial year ended 30 June 2023 was £3.0m with net assets of £2.5m: for the year ended 30 June 2024, it was £3.5m with assets of £2.1m. 

Job Purpose 

The Director of Finance, Operations & Compliance will be a key member of the Senior Leadership Team, working to ensure the impact, sustainability, diligence and productivity of the organisation, with a commitment to organisational transformation within the framework of a values-led approach to people and culture. 

Taking a lead on all financial, support and compliance activities, the role demands a combination of the hands-on approach needed in a medium-sized charity with the strong people management skills to enable all members of their team to deliver high quality services and to thrive in their roles.

Key responsibilities include: 

• All aspects of financial strategy, planning and control. 

• Providing oversight of organisational priorities, productivity, performance, people & HR, risk and due diligence. 

• Support to fundraising and programmes. 

• Being an active leader across the organisation, collaborating effectively with teams, and contributing fully to organisational wide initiatives and opportunities. 

• Co-creating ways of working to enable an adaptive, collaborative and high performing organisational team. 

• Leading and managing a team of 6, including 3 direct reports. 

Key Accountabilities and Responsibilities:

Financial Strategy, Planning and Control: 

• Accountable for organisational financial strategy, working with senior staff and trustees to ensure multi-year planning, target setting and monitoring in line with Habitat GB’s strategic objectives.

• Accountable for all aspects of financial management and control, including budgeting, reforecasting, treasury management, cashflow, management information, performance and statutory reporting.

• Accountable for the development and continuous improvement of reporting frameworks, including leading regular reviews with Senior Leadership team and providing quantitative and qualitative reports for the Board including clear and accessible narrative analysis.

• Provision of financial management and accounting services, management information, and statutory reporting. 

• Lead the organisation of quarterly Finance, Audit & Risk Committee meetings, in line with the Committee Terms of Reference and in consultation with the Treasurer, and National Director/CEO. 

• Responsible for the preparation and submission of annual statutory accounts in accordance with SORP and legal requirements and coordinating the external audit exercise and seeing the process through to Board approvals and filing with statutory bodies. 

• Lead a positive and collaborative relationship with HFHI Finance teams and ensure that Habitat GB meets its regular reporting requirements. 

• Lead Habitat GB’s relationship with relevant external partners, including auditors, bankers, insurers, pension providers, HMRC, Charity Commission and Companies House. 

GB Homes Subsidiary Entity: 

• Working closely with the National Director/CEO on planning for the future wind-up of the entity, providing all financial management, reporting and compliance resources as required in the interim. 

• Working with the Director of Programme Delivery, provide financial resource and support to the management of the former GB Homes asset portfolio, developing appropriate reporting mechanisms that provide data which can be included into the combined budgeting and reporting of Habitat GB 

• Accountable for integration and ongoing provision of the operational requirements of the GB Homes subsidiary, including insurance, technology, and communications requirements. 

Fundraising & Programmes support: 

• Work closely with the Directors of Fundraising & Partnerships, and of Impact & Influence to set ambitious and achievable targets across restricted and unrestricted fundraising, track performance, and ensure high quality forecasting, reporting and budget management. 

• Be responsible for the development and oversight of policies, protocols and systems required for restricted fund management which align with Habitat for Humanity International and external donor requirements. 

• Work collaboratively across Habitat GB to agree service delivery expectations and ensure the timely provision of relevant inputs from the Finance, Operations & Compliance team across partnership and programme cycles.  For example, audit or financial reporting requirements from donors, up to date policies, review of proposal documents, grants and contract agreements. 

• Work closely with the Directors of Programme Delivery & Retail to ensure Habitat GB has the specialist knowledge and financial skills relevant to our diverse types of programmes, including a new and growing retail operation, as well as construction project delivery. 

Risk Management and Compliance: 

• Lead on the development and maintenance of the organisational Risk Register, being responsible for the management and mitigation of financial, regulatory and operational risks and coordinating with others on the reporting and review of other risk areas. 

• Ensure Habitat GB is fully compliant and up to date with all its data protection and insurance requirements and has access to appropriate legal and other expert resources where necessary. 

• Be responsible for technology infrastructure, hardware and the management of outsourced support services. 

People Policies and HR Administration: 

• Support the Head of People to deliver a high-quality People and HR service to the organisation and our partners, including efficient HR administration, pension and payroll, people management, safeguarding, strategy and leadership. 

• Working closely with the National Director and others, have overall responsibility for the provision of up to date, user-friendly and legally compliant policies and procedures which support an efficient and effective organisational culture and environment. 

Leadership & Management: 

• Lead a high performing and ambitious team, inspired to implement and grow the strategy and with a core focus on positive impact for Habitat GB’s community and strategic partners through the provisional of excellent functional and subject matter expertise. 

• Develop, lead and focus the Finance, Operations & Compliance team, its budget, activities and performance, to ensure the delivery against targets. 

• Manage, motivate and develop team members. Ensure regular 1-2-1s are held, set individual objectives, encourage a culture of giving and receiving feedback, where kindness and ambition support the progression of people and plans. 

• Set quality standards and meaningful KPIs to encourage ownership and accountability with direct reports, team, and others and effectively monitor progress towards agreed targets. 

• Role model our values in line with Habitat GB’s inclusive approach to people and culture. 

Organisational Leadership: 

• Support the National Director/CEO in delivering Habitat GB’s strategy and vision, acting as a collaborative and supportive member of a shared leadership team. 

• As a member of the Senior Leadership Team, provide oversight of organisational priorities, productivity, performance, risk and due diligence. 

• Be an active leader across the organisation, collaborating effectively with teams, and contributing fully to organisational wide initiatives and opportunities. 

• Co-create ways of working to enable an adaptive, collaborative and high performing organisational team. 

• Deputise for the National Director when required and represent HFHGB in external meetings and forums. 

Person profile: 

• Holder of a relevant professional or accounting qualification: e.g. ACCA or equivalent. 

• Expertise in charity sector compliance (FRS102) reporting requirements. 

• Expert knowledge of financial strategy, management and reporting, with experience relevant to funding and grants, retail, commercial or construction. 

• Proven track record of developing and leading complex financial strategies and supporting teams to deliver high quality functional inputs in an inclusive, collaborative environment. 

• Hands-on experience with relevant accounting systems and the ability to quickly learn new systems (Habitat GB uses SUN and SAGE systems). 

• Experience working in and leading teams responsible for operational and people related functions. 

• Experience of working in a similar organisation, collaborating across teams and operating in a highly effective way across a diverse, networked structure. 

• Significant and successful experience in senior management roles, encompassing strategic management and team leadership. 

• Understanding and experience of complex organisational change projects, including the ability to support new teams to develop and thrive. 

Skills and competencies: 

• You have excellent interpersonal skills and can communicate with impact across diverse audiences. 

• You are a strategic, analytical and details orientated thinker who can also appreciate the big picture, be pragmatic, collaborative and focus on increasing impact in line with Habitat GB’s mission. 

• You are resilient, able to lead positively in a role which carries significant responsibility and requires you to prioritise effectively across multiple areas of work, problem solve and demonstrate strong organisational and planning skills. 

• You are a values-led leader, who demonstrates integrity, respect for others and a commitment to equity, diversity and inclusion. Strong leadership skills and commitment to the highest levels of integrity, honesty, openness and good governance with the capacity to inspire and motivate others. 

• You are an experienced manager, able to lead and inspire others, offering kind and constructive support to others enabling them to improve their impact and performance. 

• You are confident and able to work across different and competing priorities which require you to flex between hands on activities and strategic leadership. 

• You can demonstrate business planning acumen, decision-making, and problem-solving skills. 

The role and responsibilities will be carried out in a way which reflects: 

• Habitat GB’s commitment to safeguarding children in accordance with the Safeguarding Policy. 

• A commitment to Habitat GB’s vision, mission, values and approach. 

• A commitment to effective management of risk, by operating within the Charity’s code of conduct, policies, procedures and controls and by carrying out the risk management and assurance responsibilities of the role as set out in relevant Policy and Procedures. 

Reporting to the CEO, you’ll take the lead on all financial, compliance, operational and people support activities.  This role demands a combination of the hands-on approach needed in a medium-sized charity with the strong people management skills to enable all members of your team to deliver high quality services and to thrive in their roles.

You’ll also be working closely with colleagues across the international Habitat network, so good communication and collaboration skills will be key to success in this role. 

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If this role sounds like it could be a good match for you, please take a look at the Candidate Pack.

Please note: this role is not eligible for UK Visa Sponsorship - the successful applicant will need to have a pre-existing Right to Work in the UK. The sucessfull candidate will be required to have a DBS check before starting the role.

Habitat for Humanity requires that all employees take seriously their ethical responsibilities to safeguard our intended beneficiaries, their communities, and all those with whom we work.  Managers at all levels have responsibilities to support and develop systems that create and maintain an environment that prevents harassment, sexual exploitation and abuse, safeguards the rights of beneficiaries and community members (especially children), and promotes the implementation of our code of conduct. The employment of this position will be subject to a satisfactory reference check and a Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check. 

At Habitat for Humanity GB, we aim to build, develop and retain a talented workforce that represents a variety of backgrounds, skills and experiences. We welcome and actively encourage applications from anyone who feels they’d be a good fit for our organisation, regardless of race, religion, colour, age, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, neurodiversity or any other protected characteristics. 

Unfortunately, because of high volume of applications we will not be able to contact unsuccessful applicants. If you haven’t heard from us within a month of the application deadline, please assume that your application has not been successful. 

We’d prefer to hear directly from applicants – we won’t be working with third party recruiters on this role.  

As the first Head of Operations, you will provide strategic oversight, work with staff to translate our strategy into actionable, measurable plans for efficient and effective work, which will enhance the impact for people in immigration detention.  Your management of the team’s operations will support our growth, resilience, and sustainability.

For futher information see the Application Pack

What they say about Medical Justice;

“What Medical Justice did was absolutely remarkable. They sent two specialists to see me in Harmondsworth and they did the most amazingly thorough job documenting all my scars. Then I got my medico-legal report which was over 40 pages long. They did thorough, professional work – there is nothing more that they could have done and ultimately this work got me out of detention.” – former detained person and Medical Justice client

“[Medical Justice] has strong characteristics and a highly respected reputation. It is regarded as principled, expert and evidence-based, tenacious in its casework and policy work, fierce and ferocious when needed and brave in the way it speaks truth to power.” – fellow non-governmental organisation

“Medical Justice has an outsized impact for its size – it is highly effective and the team is absolutely terrific, which is all the more impressive in the difficult political context.” – Medical Justice funder

Informal online information sessions

An opportunity to ask questions about Medical Justice and its work as well as about the Head of Operations role ;

12.30-1.30pm Thursday 22nd May

12.30-1.30 Thursday 6th June

Programme Director

Location: Kirklees
Salary: £44,000 pro-rata
Hours: 30-37 hours per week (flexible working available)
Job Type: Full time
Contract Type: Permanent

Are you an experienced leader with a passion for community impact and the voluntary sector?

TSL Kirklees is currently recruiting for a new role of Programme Director to lead and coordinate our portfolio of community infrastructure projects. 

This senior leadership role is pivotal in helping us achieve our mission to tackle inequality across Kirklees by strengthening the voice and influence of the local VCSE sector. 

You’ll work closely with our CEO, Trustee Board, partners, and funders to:

• Oversee project delivery and evaluation
• Build strong cross-sector partnerships
• Align operations with strategic goals
• Lead and support a team of project managers

What are we looking for?

We're looking for someone with a collaborative leadership style, able to provide energy, focus and creativity as well as excellent project and people management skills, and a strong understanding of the VCSE landscape.

REF-221497

Through the appointment of a Strategic Programme Director (SPD), we have been given an opportunity to bring a step change in our mission and ministry across the Diocese of Coventry.  With a history of innovative missional practice and a dedicated team of lay and ordained leaders across our diverse geographical area (Warwickshire, Coventry and part of Solihull), we are looking to appoint a strategic thinker who is solutions focused with experience in bringing impactful change. The SPD will join us at an exciting time in the strategic development of the Diocese of Coventry as our new diocesan bishop takes up her responsibilities with a vision to see all churches flourish. A highly consultative approach will be needed as we look ahead to the beginning of this new season.

The Strategic Programme Director will be responsible for contributing to and supporting the Bishop’s Senior Staff Team and key lay and ordained leaders in the delivery of the diocesan strategy. The role will ensure that the programmes, projects and workstreams within the plan are delivered on time, within scope and budget. The Programme Director will provide oversight of the strategic plan from inception of ideas through implementation to delivery of projects.  Working collaboratively across the Diocese, the role will also ensure that key outcomes are well-defined, appropriately prioritised, delivered to plan and within budget. The role will include shaping and scoping the request for partnership/external funding.

Programme Development & Planning

• In the first year: To prioritise the clear articulation of a diocesan wide vision and direction of travel through working closely with the Bishop and the Bishop’s Senior Staff Team building on the work achieved in recent years.
• Work with key stakeholders to develop strategic initiatives aligned with the diocesan vision and strategy
• Ensure strategic proposals have clarity and viability
• Ensure effective communication with clarity, consistency and transparency
• Work with senior leaders to prioritise outline proposals
• Work with senior leaders to develop change proposals including detailed outcomes and the process by which those outcomes will be achieved
• Regularly assess the viability of development proposals
• Work with partnership funding bodies, including the C of E Vision and Strategy Team, to submit funding proposals and assure the quality of applications for any partnership funding
• Represent the Diocese in discussions with partnership funders
• Work with senior leaders to make the best use of central resources to support change

Programme Management

• Facilitate the launch of partnership-funded strategic projects, ensuring they are appropriately planned, resourced, measured and managed.
• Establish appropriate programme governance, including risk management, change management, regular reporting, and budget management
• Work with the communications team to ensure consistent and effective messaging
• Establish review and support processes to ensure projects are delivered successfully
• Ensure intervention processes are developed to pause, or if necessary, terminate projects that have demonstrated they will not deliver
• Capture and publish lessons learned, and support research studies
• Build consistent protocols for all significant strategic development initiatives
• Track progress against a detailed project plan, deliverables, outcomes and measures
• Manage changes in project scope, schedule and costs, escalating to BSIG as required
• Provide support for operational aspects of projects in liaison with diocesan colleagues
• Ensure project leads/managers regularly complete a quality project highlight report
• Address project issues and risks, escalating to BSST accordingly
• Report project status to BSST on a regular basis
• Oversee production of all necessary annual reports for the Strategic Investment Board

Inter Mediate is a London-based peace-making charity supporting confidential negotiations in some of the world’s most challenging conflicts. Reporting to the Head of Finance, working closely with the Operations Director, and in close coordination with staff across IM, the key tasks of this role are to:

• Take a proactive and principal role in supporting Inter Mediate’s financial compliance;
• Support Inter Mediate to fulfil its accountability to funders;
• Take an active role in supporting and guiding the projects teams in efficient budget tracking and monitoring;
• Take a proactive and principal role in supporting the Operations Director with various aspects of operations management for best practice and compliance;
• Take an active role in supporting secure and compliant IT operations;
• Provide other general support when required for the smooth running of the organisation.

Specific responsibilities

Finance

Working with the Head of Finance as required:

• Record and process a range of financial transactions accurately and efficiently to deadline in Sage 50 software (often in multiple currencies). Maintain financial records ensuring accuracy to facilitate internal and external audit processes;
• Take the lead in compiling, tracking and monitoring project budgets in close collaboration with operations and project teams;
• Track project and core expenditure and support in preparation of accurate, compliant and timely financial reports to funders to satisfy reporting requirements;
• Help to compile and monitor project budgets, log activities and record/prepare relevant material for grant audits;
• Implement and maintain financial policies and procedures;
• Manage book-keeping function by recording invoices, ensuring that they are promptly  authorised in line with agreed financial procedures and paid on time;
• Manage complex cash and credit card expenses by collating and recording in multiple currencies; and taking charge of banking, petty & foreign cash accounts;
• Take the lead on initiatives to research, introduce and implement appropriate finance software to make the finance function more efficient;
• Be prepared to play an active role as IM brings management accounting in-house
• Support Inter Mediate with company and grant audits.

Operations

Working with the Operations Director as required:

• Assist with researching and implementing operations systems, policies and procedures (as requested by the Operations Director;
• Assist with timesheets, and absence reporting management;
• Collaborate with operations and project teams in complying with donor requirements;
• Undertake special projects such as aspects of the salary and benefits benchmarking exercise;
• Assist with smooth running of the office and maintenance of office systems and equipment, including stationery orders, overseeing subscriptions and shredding.

General

• Assist with organising meetings and events, including travel logistics, and providing other general support when required.

This is an exciting opportunity for a highly motivated, dynamic and commercially minded individual to join the Senior Management Team of one of the UK’s leading museums. Working alongside the Director and Board of Trustees, the Director of Finance and Resources will oversee the financial management of the organisation.

The successful candidate will be a qualified Accountant with a proven track record of operating at a senior level.  They will have the ability to offer insight and challenge for future development, whilst ensuring the financial sustainability and growth.

The Director of Finance & Resources is responsible driving the quality and transparency of financial management and reporting, ensuring robust financial controls and the smooth running and management of Museum and Trading finances.

With experience at Board level, they must be comfortable with presenting to Boards, have the ability to develop strategy and present business plans.

Executive Director

Boiler House Spaces is a small Hackney community charity seeking our new permanent Executive Director to lead the organisation in the exciting next stage of its development 

Position: Executive Director

Salary: £55,000 pro rata

Location: Hackney, London with some home-working

Hours: 17.5 hours per week (or higher if fundraising targets achieved)

Contract: Permanent

Closing Date: 4th June 2025

About the Role

As Executive Director of Boiler House Spaces, you will be responsible for leading the charity and its small and committed team, to develop strategic partnerships and funding to take the organisation forwards. 

Key responsibilities include:

Leadership & People

· Provide leadership, supervise staff/volunteers, and ensure service quality.

· Collaborate with teams for effective service delivery and staff coverage.

Strategy & Partnerships

· Represent Boiler House Spaces and develop partnerships with key stakeholders.

· Lead the Good Place programme with partners and the community.

Finance, Fundraising & Marketing

· Oversee finances, report quarterly, and manage fundraising.

· Build relationships with supporters and promote the organization’s profile.

Governance

· Support the Board with governance, strategy, and risk management.

· Lead the strategy and business plan implementation.

Capital Project & Other Duties

· Lead the capital project and ensure policy adherence.

· Manage emergencies and take on additional tasks as needed.

About You

An experienced successful leader and passionate about community development, you will be a great communicator, a team player with strong finance and project management skills and a willingness to roll up your sleeves.

You will have:

· Proven senior leadership experience with a track record in building partnerships and generating income

· Skilled in managing teams, creating a positive culture, and motivating others to deliver

· Strong financial management, including budget planning and oversight

· Excellent communication and presentation skills for diverse audiences

· Strategic and creative thinker with strong interpersonal and people management skills

· Understanding of the community sector or ability to learn quickly

· Proactive, collaborative, and resilient with a ‘can-do’ attitude

· Committed to community development and the values of Boiler House Spaces

About the Organisation

Boiler House Spaces is about local people helping each other in tough times. We run a community food pantry giving free food, advice and support. We open our safe and warm spaces for community groups so people can connect and make key improvements in their own lives.

You’ll be joining us at a pivotal moment as we shape the next phase of our development.

How to apply

Eastside People are supporting the organisation in the recruitment of this role.

You will be asked to submit your CV and a cover letter.

Eastside People are fully committed to equality of opportunity and diversity and work with our clients to ensure that we recruit inclusively, seeking to address the underrepresentation of some groups of people in leadership teams.

Please note, that we understand AI can be a helpful tool, but please use it with caution and ensure your application is personalised and accurate.

You may also have experience in other areas such as COO, Chief Operation Officer, Operation, Director of Operations, Operations Executive, CEO, Chief Executive Officer, Chief Exec, Executive, Charity, Organisation Lead, Charity Director.

PLEASE NOTE: This role is being advertised by NFP People on behalf of the organisation.

In this exciting new role, we are looking for a passionate and ambitious HR Manager to join our team and help us to enhance our team’s performance and wellbeing, our values-led culture, and further enhance our diversity and inclusion.

In this stand-alone role, you will work with the Director of Finance & Operations (DFO) to oversee all aspects of HR practices and processes. You will ensure compliance with employment law, and that all our HR policies, processes, and systems are up to date, simple and well-understood.

You will lead the day-to-day HR function providing support to staff across all areas of HR. This will include managing all our HR systems, providing expert advice and guidance to staff, and overseeing each employee's journey from induction to exit.

You will implement talent retention strategies and ensure Switchback is a fulfilling place to work with a real sense of belonging in the team.

Oversee all recruitment processes focusing on supporting applicants and staff to have the best experience.

You will be passionate about the idea of helping others to be their best and putting in place systems and processes to make that possible. You will be excited about making significant contributions to developing our HR practice and processes.

Above all, you’ll be passionate about Switchback’s purpose and values, and keen to join an organisation that wants to support young men make real, lasting change through front-line work and big ambitions to transform the system.

Join RABI and play a pivotal role in ensuring sound financial planning and performance, operational excellence, and compliance, as we continue to develop our focus on empowering the worth and wellbeing of the farming community. 

Location: Oxford / Flexible working (min 2days p/w in the office)

About us

RABI (The Royal Agricultural Benevolent Institution) is a national charity providing one-to-one expert support, advice and guidance to the farming community across England and Wales.  Established in 1860, the commitment to address the individual needs of farming people remains at the core of RABI’s mission. Our farming communities are facing increasingly complex challenges and pressures and for many stress cracks are beginning to show.  RABI has a crucial role to play now and in the future, to support the personal resilience and wellbeing of farming people.

RABI continues to work tirelessly to develop and deliver services and support that uplifts and supports farming people through practical, financial and emotional assistance, touching the lives of thousands of people every year. Whether giving expert advice on benefits or providing mental health support, RABI offers a beacon of hope.

About the role

We are looking for an experienced and strategic planner to join RABI as our new Head of Finance & Operations. This is a critical role at the heart of our organisation, ensuring that our financial management, operational governance, HR practices and estates oversight are robust and future-focused. As a key member of the Senior Leadership Team, you will play a central role in planning and delivering the strategic priorities of the charity.

Reporting to the Director of Finance & Operations, you will lead and develop high-performing teams across Finance, HR, and Estates & Operations. You will bring strong strategic planning insight, ensuring sound financial planning and performance, operational excellence, and compliance with governance frameworks and regulations. You’ll also manage relationships with investment and estate advisors to ensure we are making the best use of our resources in line with our strategic goals.

What we are looking for

You will be a CCAB-qualified finance professional with substantial experience of working at a senior level, ideally within the charity or non-profit sector. Your background will include leading finance, HR and operations functions, and developing and implementing strategic financial and operational plans. We’re looking for someone with excellent leadership skills, who brings a collaborative and open approach to building strong relationships across teams and with external partners. Experience of investment portfolio oversight, estate management, and working through organisational change will be key to your success in this role.

You will also bring strong planning and analytical skills, an eye for risk and performance indicators, and the ability to present strategic planning insight clearly to executive colleagues and Trustees. Above all, you’ll share our commitment to supporting farming communities and have a strong affinity with RABI’s values and mission.

This is a fantastic opportunity to join a values-driven organisation and help build the infrastructure that supports RABI’s ambitious growth and the ongoing delivery of services that improve the lives of farming people.

Please click ''Redirect to recruiter’ to be redirected to the Peridot Partners website, where you can find full details of the job description and register your interest to apply.

Closing date for applications: By 9am, Tuesday 13th May 2025

Job Description

In this pivotal role, you are responsible for ensuring not only the efficient and effective operation of the organisation, but also the quality of public engagement and the achievement of CSC’s annual direct revenue targets. You help steer and coordinate all of CSC’s workstreams, translating the organisation’s vision into action that is grounded, sustainable, and scalable. Your remit includes oversight of all public and school engagement, operations at the Trinity Centre, and outreach delivery for remote-site pop-ups.

People and talent management sit at the heart of this role. CSC is powered by an exceptionally skilled, passionate, and committed team, and your primary responsibility is to create the conditions in which they can thrive. You coordinate planning across functions, define clear pathways forward, remove obstacles, and keep priorities aligned—empowering others to do their best work.

You are a thoughtful, supportive, and trusted leader—respected for your fairness, clarity, and calm. You set high standards, not through pressure, but by fostering a culture of growth, accountability, and mutual respect. You understand the value of developing individuals and teams, nurturing talent while keeping the organisation agile and focused.

Empathy, clarity, and accountability are central to your leadership approach. You bring a “firm but fair” ethos to everything you do—balancing care with rigour, and ensuring people feel valued, heard, and united in purpose.

You lead CSC’s budgeting, cost control, and direct revenue generation, working closely with the Finance Director to oversee all financial operations. Beyond finance, you are responsible for maintaining and evolving the IT and business systems that underpin CSC’s day-to-day operations—ensuring the organisation can coordinate effectively, track progress, and resolve issues with a solutions-focused mindset.

Leveraging Cambridge’s world-class deep-tech ecosystem, you help ensure CSC remains at the forefront of best-in-class management systems and processes. You assess their potential for cost-effectiveness and operational value before planning and managing implementation.

You also work in close partnership with the CEO and Board to identify organisational risks and develop robust mitigation strategies—ensuring CSC remains resilient, responsive, and well-positioned for the future.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee the implementation of CSC’s annual operational plan, aligning delivery with strategic priorities, managing budget adherence, and reporting quarterly to the Board on progress and performance.

• Oversee the organisation’s engagement with the public, schools, and local communities, including activity at the Trinity Centre and through outreach initiatives.

• In coordination with fellow Directors, support the CEO in translating their vision and strategy into actionable workflows by setting measurable goals, assigning clear ownership, and guiding team leads to develop practical delivery plans—overseeing progress and ensuring alignment throughout.

• Develop and maintain a corporate dashboard that provides a clear, at-a-glance view of the organisation’s performance against its annual plans—offering an ongoing health check throughout the year.

• Ensure regular, focused cross-team check-ins are in place to support coordination, align workflows, and provide timely visibility of upcoming activities and priorities.

• Line-manage the Visitor Experience Manager and Engagement and Logistics Lead.

• Support the Visitor Experience Manager in setting and achieving annual direct revenue targets, while ensuring Cambridge Science Centre serves as a vibrant showcase of the organisation’s brand and values.

• Support the Engagement and Logistics Lead to ensure the delivery team is well-trained, motivated, and equipped to deliver high-quality engagements. Oversee the development of fair and forward-planned rotas, and ensure any unassigned delivery capacity is allocated in a way that maximises value for CSC while supporting individual development and growth.

• Support the Outreach and Innovation Manager to integrate their team’s workflow with that of the Delivery and Visitor Engagement team.

• Ensure that each team member has a clearly defined individual development plan reviewed and agreed annually, with regular check-ins to keep progress on track and ensure ongoing support throughout the year.

• Set and regularly review CSC’s corporate policies to ensure they remain current, relevant, and understood by all staff.

• Ensure all staff receive appropriate training to maintain a safe, low-risk environment for both colleagues and the public at all times—covering safeguarding, health and safety, de-escalation, and emergency procedures.

• Review all CSC contracts at key development stages to ensure commitments are clearly understood, feasible, and aligned with the organisation’s capacity to deliver.

• Oversee CSC’s contractual fulfilment and organisational risk management, including asset tracking and oversight in coordination with the Visitor Engagement Manager and Product Development Officer. Work alongside the Finance Director to maintain and review the company’s risk register on a six-monthly basis, ensuring risks are monitored and mitigated effectively.

• Oversee the implementation and ongoing management of IT, HR, and business systems—ensuring effective staff training, consistent usage, and accessible support to maximise organisational efficiency and impact.

• Manage CSC’s documentation policies, digital archiving, and workspace structures (e.g., Google Drive), including the assignment and oversight of access permissions to ensure clarity, security, and ease of use.
   

Person Specification

Essential Criteria

• Brings a solutions-oriented mindset and a practical, inclusive approach to problem-solving, underpinned by a positive and collaborative “can-do” attitude.

• A seasoned line and team manager who leads with a “firm but fair” ethos—valuing clear communication, personal accountability, and empathetic leadership to foster a supportive and high-performing team culture.

• Proven experience overseeing spaces, systems, and logistical operations, preferably within a public venue environment, with a strong understanding of the practicalities of day-to-day visitor management and operational delivery.

• An inclusive and approachable leader with a natural curiosity, you foster an open-door culture and ask the right questions to help people and teams explore ideas and reach effective solutions.

• You are detail-oriented and methodical, ensuring that planning is assigned, completed, and maintained. You work well in advance to create plans that are clear, comprehensive, and easy to follow—making sure everyone understands their role and is committed to achieving shared goals.

• Excellent verbal and written communication and presentation skills.

• Confident and literate in IT networks and business systems, with the ability to navigate, implement, and support digital tools that enhance organisational efficiency.

• Driven to deliver timely, high-quality outcomes in everything you do.

• Proven ability to adapt quickly and effectively to changing priorities.

• A commitment to equity, diversity, and inclusion.

• A collaborative work ethic that enables you to work effectively with colleagues and partners across a diverse range of projects and disciplines.

• Achieve a satisfactory enhanced DBS check.

Desirable Criteria

• Proven experience managing public engagement across multiple sites, including coordinating dynamic pop-up exhibitions and events.

• A keen interest in staying informed about global developments and emerging trends in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.

• Customer service skills and experience.

• A qualification or training in business or operational management would be advantageous, but relevant experience and skills will also be highly valued.

• Full clean driving license

Working Conditions
The primary locations for this role will be Cambridge Science Centre's Head Office at 44 Clifton Road, Cambridge, CB1 7ED (assigned desk or workspace) and the Cambridge Science Centre at Trinity Centre, Cambridge Science Park, CB4 0FN (hotdesking model).

In addition, there will be travel (primarily driving with a company or hire vehicle) to the semi-permanent centre (Inspire Wisbech Centre, Wisbech, PE13 1AR) and, on occasion a variety of locations across the East of England.

We offer the option of flexible hybrid working where and when possible.

Advancement Opportunities

CSC invests in its staff through a structured career-planning framework. As a senior staff member, your training will focus on developing best practice within the areas you manage, tailored to both organisational goals and your professional growth. These individual development opportunities are reviewed and planned annually, ensuring your continued progression and alignment with CSC’s strategic objectives.

Standard working hours are 7.5 hours per day

Parking and bike storage are available at both CSC locations.

Benefits include:

• 25 days annual leave, plus Bank Holidays

• Mental health support in partnership with BetterHelp

• Contributory pension scheme

Recruitment Process and Timeline:

To apply for the position of Director of Operations and Engagement at Cambridge Science Centre, please submit your CV and a Cover Letter explaining why you are interested in joining the Centre and how your skills and experience align with the role.

At CSC, we’re committed to equity, diversity and inclusion in all areas of our work. We actively welcome applications from people of all backgrounds, especially those underrepresented in science engagement.

PINF is the first charity in the UK that exists to support high-quality journalism. We exist at the cutting edge of charity law and need an experienced charity professional to make sure we do things properly. 

As Head of Operations & Governance, you will be responsible for overseeing the back-office operations of the charity. You will be a key point of contact for the team and support the Executive Director to ensure smooth, efficient and compliant operations.

You will be a senior member of the team, responsible for ensuring that PINF operates within its legal and regulatory framework, including in relation to charity, corporate, tax, employment and data protection regulations. The role involves liaising with the Chair, Board of Trustees, Executive Director, legal advisors and regulators to support best practice in financial management, governance, risk management and compliance.  

Duties and responsibilities 

• Financial Management 

• Ensure consistent delivery and quality of finance operations, including transactions processing, which will involve managing a bookkeeping service.

• Prepare and monitor annual budgets, management accounts and project budgets.

• Lead on the financial aspects of fundraising, contract management, and funder reporting. Including managing restricted and unrestricted funding. 

• Oversee the process of preparing statutory accounts, including liaising with accountants and auditors.

• Maintain internal controls and policies to protect assets, prevent fraud, and ensure business continuity. 

• Participate in the Finance & Fundraising Committee and support the Treasurer to plan and deliver meetings. 

• Prepare financial reports for board meetings and engage in board discussions.

• Governance 

• Manage our annual governance cycle, working closely with the Chair, Treasurer and Executive Director to ensure legal compliance and to plan and prepare for Board meetings including taking appropriate minutes.

• Manage the organisational risk framework including identifying emerging risks and working with the Executive Director to mitigate them.

• Companies House and Charity Commission filings.

• Develop and maintain a suite of policy to ensure PINF meets its obligations as a charity and an employer.

• Play an active part in board discussion to support good decision making.

• HR 

• Manage HR across the organisation; ensuring all HR processes and policies are fit for purpose, up to date and adhere to law, and are understood and implemented across the organisation.

• Manage recruitment processes for all staff.

• Manage the annual leave tracker. 

• Operations and administration 

• Ensure the smooth running of the organisation by leading operational planning and monitoring progress.

• Lead on relationships and contracts with external suppliers and contractors.

• Ensure PINF has appropriate insurance cover. 

• Occasional support with charitable activities (meetings, events, publications, etc.) 

Requirements  

• A professional qualification in finance, management, law, or a related field and at least five years’ experience relevant to this role.

• Deep understanding of good governance and best practice in the charity sector.

• Understanding of relevant laws relating to employment, data protection and running a charity. 

• Sympathy to the aims and objectives of PINF. 

• Full professional proficiency in English. 

• Right to work in the UK. 

Skills and attributes 

• Experience of managing charity finances and budgets (Essential). A related finance or accountancy qualification would be desirable. 

• Experience of managing operations in a comparable charity or business, with both strategic and day-to-day operational responsibilities. 

• Developing HR processes and policies and taking the lead in implementing these across an organisation. 

• Developing processes and procedures and making improvements for efficiency and impact. 

• Experience of working closely with trustees, non-executives or senior leadership teams.

• Strong oral and written communications skills, including having the confidence to use your expertise to provide feedback and constructive challenge to senior leaders.

• Excellent problem-solving and interpersonal skills. 

• Ability to work remotely and independently and to collaborate with others. 

• Enjoy being the key point of contact and support in a small, remote team. 

• Ability to stay on top of your workload by using relevant software (including Microsoft Office and finance software such as Xero), keeping accurate and up-to-date records, and prioritising between competing tasks. 

Please apply using Charity Job. Once you click apply you will be prompted to upload your CV and answer an application question in up to 5000 characters: What do you see as the main challenges facing PINF as a small but ambitious charity, and how will you use your experience to address them as Head of Operations & Governance? 

We are committed to improving diversity and inclusion across our organisation. Don’t meet every single requirement? Studies have shown that women and the Global Majority are less likely to apply for jobs unless they meet every single specification. If you’re excited about the role but your experience or qualifications don’t perfectly align, we encourage you to apply anyway. We particularly encourage applications from underrepresented groups such as the global majority, LGBTQA+, those with a disability and neurodiverse conditions.

The role:

This is a key role within the Executive Leadership team, with accountability for Finance, Procurement and IT at the Globe. You will work collaboratively with the CEO and Executive leadership team to drive strong business as usual delivery, and provide provide balanced insight to Executive Leadership Team and the Senior Leadership Group so that they can take responsibility for questioning routines and rituals, and for streamlining processes that improve efficiency.

The Finance Director is the lead on the Audit and Risk Committee (ARC) and is a key part of other relevant committees. You will also attend and report at Board meetings, developing strong working relationships with Board members, the Artistic Director, Executive Leadership members, members of the Senior Leadership Group (SLG), the Finance and Procurement team, the Globe’s IT contractor, and colleagues throughout the Globe.

The skills:

· Chartered Accountant.

· Extensive Director level business experience in a complex organisation.

· A strategic thinker with entrepreneurial instincts

· Demonstrable experience in managing contracts.

· Experience within the charities sector including understanding of the relevant accounting, taxation and other regulatory requirements this presents.

· Empathy with the work, aims and mission of the Globe including an appreciation of the balance between the charitable purpose and commercial imperatives.

· An effective and flexible leadership and management style with demonstrable ability to inspire, motivate, coach and develop a team.

· Credibility and authority to work effectively and liaise internally with senior staff and externally with Trustees and other stakeholders.

· An excellent negotiator and influencer with string emotional intelligence and good communication skills.

· Analytical problem-solving ability with the appetite and energy to evaluate, challenge and change the status quo.

· Experience in financial and risk compliance and governance issues.

· Accessible and inclusive report writing and presentation skills demonstrated as a part of Board level reporting.

· Positive, determined, pragmatic, and resilient – able to inspire confidence and respect.

· The ability to work flexibly in a creative, fast-moving environment and understand the importance of artistic risk taking and to respond positively to it.

· Experience in, or a personal interest in the arts, heritage/museum, or creative industries.

· Experience of managing IT contracts or IT staff.

The team:

The Finance Department provides timely and accurate financial information to key stakeholders while protecting Shakespeare’s Globe assets and ensures compliance with laws and regulations in relation to financial and taxation matters. Serving as a key partner on topics requiring economic, financial and value for money inputs and expertise, the Finance Department manages Accounting and Financial Reporting, Tax, Banking Relationships, Procurement, Financial Risk Management, Contracts, Management Reporting, and external audit partners

Shakespeare’s Globe:

We celebrate Shakespeare’s transformative impact on the world by conducting a radical theatrical experiment. Inspired and informed by the unique historic playing conditions of two beautiful iconic theatres, our diverse programme of work harnesses the power of performance, cultivates intellectual curiosity and excites learning to make Shakespeare accessible for all.

To further develop, deliver and strengthen CSE’s Human Resources function, ensuring that the organisation complies with all relevant legislation and guidance while recruiting and retaining good quality staff. Instilling a collaborative culture of high performance where staff are encouraged and supported to perform at their best and we collectively achieve outstanding results.

Pay and conditions

• The role is full-time, permanent role (37.5 hours per week).

• The salary for the role will be £47,508 - £55,954 (starting salary is expected to be at the lower end of the range)

• You will be entitled to 25 days paid holiday (plus statutory holidays).

CSE offer a range of benefits including, subsidised bike purchase and Tech Scheme, Life Assurance, Health Cash plan, retail discounts and discounted breakdown cover and many more.

We will pay fees and expenses on relevant training courses.

Specific responsibilities

An applicant appointed to the role will be expected to:

• To deliver all aspects of CSE’s Human Resources function, from recruitment, staff welfare, wellbeing and associated support, staff records, training and professional development, oversight and advice on any conflicts or disciplinary matters; and to include the development and maintenance of all appropriate staff policies and processes, including performance management and staff appraisals, remuneration, role progression and all staff benefits.

• To ensure the Staff Handbook remains regularly updated, and to lead on all amendments / updates to this key document for staff. Additionally, working alongside the Director of Finance & Operations, the Chief Executive and other directors to ensure all HR-related policies and procedures across CSE are reviewed regularly and remain updated accordingly, supporting staff needs as effectively as possible while also reflecting the needs and strategic objectives of the whole organisation, its charitable status and mission.

• To maintain the organisation’s personnel records in accordance with appropriate data protection standards and recognised good practice (utilizing the Cezanne HR system). To provide overall ownership of this system – in terms of data contents, security and ongoing operations for the system. The postholder will also act as primary contact for the Cezanne software supplier, liaising with the Director of Finance & Operations and other interested parties where necessary.

• To maintain oversight of staff welfare and working with line managers and other relevant staff, provide and promote access to support and advice to sustain good staff mental and physical health and wellbeing.

• To play an integral role supporting both the Employee Voice (EV) group and Equality, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) group and take a lead on related operational functions including administrating the 6-monthly Staff Survey and highlighting issues and trends in staff feedback.

• Provide oversight and guidance in respect of staff recruitment, onboarding, induction development and training, supporting and advising other relevant staff across all associated processes.

• To issue accurate and timely employment contracts, offer letters, job descriptions, pay review letters for all internal changes. Manage and oversee internal paperwork flows from relevant managers, relating to any changes to individual employee terms of employment. Support the SLT in reviewing and amending standard terms of employment contracts to ensure CSE’s practices reflect current best practice.

• To ensure that all payroll documents such as starter forms and payroll amendment forms are completed and saved in the correct location and sent to the payroll bureau where appropriate, and support the Finance team with the administration of our payroll and payroll records and pension scheme contributions and other employee benefits. To accurately track all staff absence and ensure that self-certification and return to work meetings are completed in a timely manner. Update the Bradford factor grid to monitor score against policy and, support line managers and employees in understanding how CSE uses this as a tool at all stages of process.

• To maintain an up-to-date knowledge of applicable employment, equity and diversity, and Health and Safety laws (with support from professional advisors where appropriate), standards, guidance, and good practice, advising the SLT how these can best be reflected in the organisation’s policies and practices as they apply both to individual members of staff and to the organisation as a whole.

• To prepare accurate and accessible reports for the Senior Leadership Team and Trustees on relevant organisational, team, and individual staff HR matters to enable informed and timely monitoring and decision-making, principally on a set cycle to feed into a routine schedule of meetings and occasionally to meet an ad hoc need.

• To work with the Senior Leadership Team and other staff as appropriate to support change management processes. This may include reviewing remuneration policies, job evaluation and salary benchmarking, skills audits, EDI Practices and line management practices.

• To identify opportunities to improve CSE’s Human Resources processes and practices, informed by a sound understanding of our mission and strategic objectives and our operating context and by keeping up to date with advances in personnel management and human resources practices. To see a more detailed list of responsibilities please see the supporting documents attached. These documents are also available to download from our website.

Essential attributes for this role include:

• CIPD qualification (Level 5) or equivalent Human Resources qualification.

• At least 5 years’ post-qualification work experience, including at least 2 years’ proven experience in an advisory role.

• Experience of developing and implementing effective HR policies and practices across an organisation, including managing any associated change processes.

• Experience in supporting both the organisation as well as individual employees through challenging employee relation conflicts and issues.

• Applied knowledge of employment legislation and good HR practices.

• Experience in overseeing the maintenance of a live HR system.

• Experienced in developing and supporting line managers in managing challenging situations.

• Excellent interpersonal skills with well-honed listening skills and an empathetic manner.

• Ability to explain often complex HR matters in a clear and concise manner, to audiences at all levels of seniority and experience across the organisation.

• Ability to maintain confidentiality and act with discretion, tact and diplomacy.

• Ability to maintain and organise effective electronic and manual filing systems.

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.

• Good organisational and time management skills, with experience of working to tight deadlines and budgets.

Please note, the above is an overview of the skills required for this role. To see the full list of essential and desirable skills please see the attached job description.

How to apply

To apply, please download and complete the application form available from our website.

Your application should demonstrate your suitability for the role against the criteria outlined in the person specification.

To apply, please download and complete the application form available from our website and send it to our Jobs email address.

Your application should demonstrate your suitability for the role against the criteria outlined in the person specification and job description. To be considered for this role an application form must be sent directly to our Jobs email address. 

The closing date for applications is 5pm on Wednesday 21 May 2025.

Interviews are expected to take place Tuesday 3 June and Tuesday 10 June 2025 though this is subject to change. If invited to interview, we will ask you to provide evidence of eligibility to work in the UK