Director of finance operations jobs in Central london, greater london

Keychange is a Christian charity with a proud history of supporting people invulnerable situations for over a century. We believe that everyone has dignity and worth, and that people thrive best in communities where they are known, valued and supported. Across our care homes and housing communities, we seek to provide support that goes beyond compliance and is rooted in compassion, excellence and Christian values.

We are now seeking a Director of Operations to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of our services and ensuring that our vision is lived out every day across the organisation.

The role

As Director of Operations, you will be a key member of the senior leadership team, working closely with the CEO and Board to translate strategy into high-quality, sustainable delivery with exciting future developments ahead.

You will provide strategic and operational leadership across 7 care homes and 3 housing communities in the south of England, leading and supporting a talented operations team to deliver safe, effective and person-centred services.

Key responsibilities include:

• Providing visible leadership that embeds Keychange’s Christian vision, values and culture across all services
• Leading and overseeing multi-site operations, ensuring consistently high standards of care, safeguarding and support
• Holding accountability for regulatory compliance, quality assurance and service improvement
• Driving operational excellence, innovation and efficiency through effective systems and processes
• Ensuring services are financially sustainable, working closely with finance colleagues on budgets and resources
• Developing, coaching and inspiring senior managers and leaders to perform at their best

This is a senior role with real influence – both on the strategic direction of Keychange and on the lives of hundreds of people we support.

About you

We are looking for a values-led, strategic and credible leader who brings:

• Senior leadership experience within social care, housing, homelessness or a closely related sector
• A proven track record of leading multi-site services and managing senior operational leaders
• Strong experience of working within regulated environments and delivering high-quality, compliant services
• Sound financial and commercial awareness, with experience of managing budgets and resources  of a similar scale to Keychange (250 staff across 10 sites)
• A passion for developing people, culture and values-driven practice
• A personal commitment to the Christian faith and active agreement with the Keychange mission, vision and faith basis. (This is a genuine occupational requirement under the Equality Act 2010)

You will be someone who combines strategic thinking with practical delivery, and who leads with integrity, humility and purpose.

What we offer

This is a rare opportunity to take on a senior leadership role where your professional expertise and Christian faith can make a lasting and meaningful difference.

The role involves regular travel across our sites in the south of England with flexibility around base location.

This is a demanding role where you will support the Fundraising Director in effective management of the fundraising teams across our UK centres and the central expertise in Trusts, Major Gifts and Partnerships.

You will assist the Fundraising Director to plan and organise a broad range of fundraising activities; formulating and adjusting plans as required.  Additionally, the Fundraising Director will depend on you to lead or assist on specific projects.   
 

You will act as gatekeeper regarding access for fundraising teams to the Fundraising Director which will involve utilising strong understanding and sound judgement skills across a number of activities.

About the role

Medical Aid for Palestinians (MAP) is responding to the largest emergency in our 40+ year history. Over the last two years support for our cause has seen significant growth in income as tens of thousands of supporters have joined MAP, including individuals, trusts, foundations and corporates. Our challenge now is to retain this interest and ensure we sustain income as we respond to the ongoing emergency and the longer-term health of Palestinians over the coming years. With an ambition to be a £50m organisation by 2028, the supporter operations and insights team will play a vital role in enabling over one million Palestinians to access improved healthcare annually by 2028.

We’re looking for a strategic and people‑focused leader to head up our Supporter Operations and Insights team. A newly expanded team, this senior role will ensure our supporters receive an outstanding experience, while overseeing supporter operations, supplier management, data quality and insights. You’ll work closely with Fundraising and Finance colleagues to ensure income is processed accurately; deliver insights that drive decision‑making; and ensure operations are compliant and effective.

Many of our systems and processes are on a journey to be made fit for purpose, including a new CRM (MS Dynamics) which is currently being implemented with the support of the Digital, Data and Technology team within the Chief Operating Officer’s team.

If you’re an experienced leader with a passion for supporter experience and a commitment to MAP’s mission and values, apply now. We will be reviewing applications as we receive them.

What is the role about?
This role leads the teams that look after our supporters behind the scenes and on the front line. You’ll make sure every supporter has a positive experience, that donations are handled accurately, and that we use data and insight to continuously improve how we work.

What will you be responsible for?
You’ll lead supporter care, operations and the performance and insights teams, manage key suppliers, work closely with Finance on income reconciliation, and turn data into insight that shapes fundraising decisions. You won’t manage the CRM system itself, but you’ll work closely with the CRM Technical lead and Head of Data and Insights to ensure supporter needs are met as we continue to embed a new CRM.

Who is this role for?
This role is ideal for an experienced leader, or manager who has the potential to step up, and is from a charity or customer‑focused organisation. You will enjoy improving supporter experience; strengthening operations; and using insight to drive results — all while contributing to MAP’s work dedicated to the health and dignity of Palestinians living under occupation and as refugees.

How to Apply

Please submit your CV and Supporting Statement (no longer than 2 sides of A4) before the deadline of 9:00 am GMT on 16th February 2026 on our career's page.

Interviews will take place: 1st stage on Microsoft Teams w/c 23rd February and 2nd stage in person w/c 2nd March 2026.

If you have any questions, or reasonable adjustment requests at any point in the application and recruitment process, please contact recruitment team. 

Equal opportunities

MAP aims to be an equal opportunities employer and we are determined to ensure that no applicant or employee receives less favourable treatment on the grounds of gender, age, disability, religion, belief, sexual orientation, marital status, or race, or is disadvantaged by conditions or requirements which cannot be shown to be justifiable.

Background checks

As an organisation MAP is committed to the welfare and protection of children and vulnerable adults. MAP will conduct appropriate background and references checks. Link in that safeguarding and ethical conduct.

Disclaimer
 
**MAP reserves the right to close this advert before the confirmed closing date when we are in receipt of sufficient applications.     
 **We would therefore advise interested applicants to apply as early as possible. Due to the high volume of applications, we receive, we are unable to respond to every application. If you have not heard from us within two weeks of the deadline, then you have not been successful in shortlisting

This is an opportunity for someone who thrives being part of a small team and making a big impact.

As Executive Operations Administrator at St Luke's for Clergy Wellbeing every day will be busy and different. The role will be ideal for someone who can use their initiative, has a good eye for detail, and likes a varied workload. 

The responsibilities of this role include:

• finance administration such as processing invoices and preparing monthly management information
• fundraising administration including thank yous for supporters and monitoring legacy income
• facilitating the effective operating of the office at Church House
• supporting the CEO with GDPR, Health and Safety and other organisational compliance areas

This is a key role within the life of St Luke's for Clergy Wellbeing, if this role is working effectively the rest of the organisation will flourish, so that together we can reach our vision for flourishing clergy, healthy church, transformed communities. 

We are looking for someone who uses their initiative, models our values and has an eye for detail. The role carries a high level of responsibility and autonomy and so suits someone who is confident taking ownership and supporting others. 

We welcome applicants who are in sympathy with what we do, and comfortable working within a Christian charity. 

The Finance & Operations Manager is a senior leadership role responsible for the financial sustainability, compliance and operational effectiveness of the charity. The postholder will lead all aspects of financial management, including budgeting, forecasting, rent and service charge accounting, housing benefit income and statutory reporting.

Alongside this, the role has strategic responsibility for office and refuge operations, including facilities management, health and safety, and central administrative systems.

The Finance & Operations Manager will work closely with the Director, Senior Management Team and Board of Trustees, manage key external relationships, and line manage finance and operations staff.

Due to the nature of work and focus of LBWP, the organisation considers the candidate’s race and gender, to be an occupational requirement in accordance with Parag. 1, Schedule 9, of the Equality Act 2010. Therefore, this post is open only to Black and minoritised i.e. Global Majority, women.

The Operations Director is a  senior leadership role at St Stephen’s, helping turn vision and strategy into effective day-to-day delivery. A highly relational role, combining strong operational leadership with collaboration, trust-building and a genuine care for people. The person we are looking for will lead across people, finance, systems, buildings and operations helping the church respond to the Holy Spirit and deliver our mission well.

SANE is seeking an experienced Finance Manager to support the effective day-to-day financial management of the charity and help ensure our mental health services are financially well supported.

This is a hands-on, operational role working closely with the Chief Operations Officer and Senior Management Team. The Finance Manager will be responsible for maintaining accurate financial records, producing clear financial information and ensuring strong financial controls are in place.

This role would suit someone who enjoys practical finance work, values accuracy and organisation, and wants to use their skills in a purpose-driven charity.

Key responsibilities:

Manage day-to-day finance operations, including income, expenditure and bank reconciliations

Prepare monthly management accounts and support budget monitoring

Maintain accurate financial records in line with charity accounting requirements

Support payroll processes and liaise with external providers

Prepare information for audits and work with external auditors

Support finance-related reporting for trustees, funders and senior managers

Ensure clear financial procedures and strong internal controls are followed

About you:

You will have proven experience in a finance or accounts role, ideally within the charity or not-for-profit sector. You will be confident working independently, while also supporting colleagues across the organisation with finance-related queries.

You will be highly organised, detail-focused and comfortable managing competing priorities. Strong Excel skills and experience using accounting software are essential, along with a practical and solutions-focused approach.

A commitment to SANE’s values and an interest in supporting mental health work are essential.

Sadler's Wells is a world-leading creative organisation dedicated to dance in all its forms. Our mission is to make and share dance that inspires us all.

Sadler’s Wells commissions, presents and produces more dance than any other organisation in the world, with programmes and productions in the UK, global tours with performances in venues in 53 countries to date and our pioneering Digital Stage. Operating across three distinct venues and four theatres in London, Sadler’s Wells Theatre, the Lilian Baylis Studio, the Peacock and the newly opened Sadler’s Wells East, our aim is to reflect and respond to the world through dance. We enable artists of all backgrounds to create dance that moves us and opens our minds; sharing those experiences with the widest possible audiences to enrich their lives and deepen their understanding of what it means to be human.

About the Role

The Director of Finance, Data and Systems leads the delivery of high‑quality financial stewardship and strategy, providing expert oversight of finance, data and systems across all Sadler’s Wells venues to support organisational performance and decision‑making.

Working as part of Sadler’s Wells’ senior leadership team, you will act as a trusted advisor to the Co-Chief Executives and the Board, ensuring robust organisational financial planning, risk management, and ensuring resources are effectively aligned to deliver impact for audiences and wider stakeholders.

Key duties will include:

• Act as a strategic advisor to the Co-Chief Executives, trustees and other key stakeholders on all financial matters.
• Prepare and present financial updates to SLT, the Boards of trustees and relevant sub-committees.
• Lead the Finance and Data & Systems teams (3 direct reports and a wider team of 18)
• Advise the Board with clear, insightful financial reporting and recommendations.
• Lead the finance and accounting strategy to optimise the organisation’s financial performance
• Strategic oversight of Data and Systems department, ensuring the operational infrastructure is fit for purpose, and seeking to optimise the use of data to support improvements across the organisation.
• Lead the financial management plan, including setting and management of budgets, and provision of robust and relevant financial and management information to senior management, trustees and committees, and all budget holders within the organisation.
• Provide financial vision and forward financial planning and identify risk and maintain oversight of relevant mitigation measures.
• Ensure accurate and timely year-end accounts and audit processes, in line with Charity Commission requirements and applicable accounting standards (e.g. SORP).
• Responsible for the governance of the three corporate charities, subsidiary company and board subcommittees through maintenance and development of a risk management framework, financial systems and internal controls.

About You

You will be a CCAB qualified (or equivalent) accountant, with experience operating at Director of Finance, Chief Financial Officer level or within an equivalent senior finance leadership role. Applicants seeking a step up are encouraged to apply but must strongly demonstrate relevant prior experience of leading finance teams operationally and strategically.

You will have experience of reporting into Boards and sub-committees with the ability to translate and present complex financial data to non-finance audiences.

Candidates from all sectors are encouraged to apply but must demonstrate an interest in the work Sadler’s Wells undertakes as a world-leading performing arts venue.

Candidates must have the right to work in the UK. 

What We Offer

• Salary of £120,000 per annum
• Hybrid working – 3 days per week in-office. As this position requires close collaboration across teams a strong in-person presence is encouraged across all four venue sites.
• Annual Leave of 25 days annual leave per year
• Life assurance policy of twice annual salary
• Discretionary access to tickets for performances and staff discounts at the Garden Court Café and Park Kitchen and Bar

More Information

           Application Deadline: Sunday 22nd February
           First Stage Interviews: Monday 9th and Tuesday 10th March 2026
           Second Stage Interviews: Monday 16th March 2026

Sadler’s Wells is partnering with Ivy Rock Partners in the recruitment of this role. For further information please contact Holly Arrowsmith at Ivy Rock Partners for further details.

All direct or third-party applications will be forwarded to Ivy Rock Partners.

Recruitment Statement from Sadler’s Wells

We welcome applications from people from all backgrounds who feel they align with our mission, vision and values. We are international and multicultural on our stages, and we want to reflect that in our organisation. By celebrating difference and incorporating diverse points of view and experiences, we can become closer to our artists, audiences and the communities we serve. 

We are proud to be a Disability Confident employer meaning we have been certified by the government as actively taking steps to attract, recruit and retain disabled workers.

Sadler’s Wells is a PiPA (Parents and Carers in Performing Arts) Charter Partner, striving towards creating a more family friendly working environment.

We are looking for an experienced administrator and grant writer who is passionate about migrants’ rights and democratic reform to start working in March 2026.

We are looking for a part-time Operations and Fundraising Manager to support our Executive Director and staff team in the day to day operations of the organisation, including office tasks, support with reporting and fundraising, diary management and administrative support.

Our organisation

Migrant Democracy Project (MDP) is building migrant power in the UK. We want all residents, no matter where they are from, to have the right to vote, use the power of the vote, and get elected to build a society rooted in justice, freedom, and solidarity. A society where migrants’ interests and needs are heard, included and represented in all levels of UK politics. 

Contract

This is a fixed term contract for 12 months (with the possibility of extension depending on future grants), £37,000 pro rata (£22,200 per year), with an early March 2026 start. We are open to this being a PAYE or contractor (self-employed) position.

Benefits include:

• 25 days of paid annual leave pro rata, plus bank holidays. In addition, the MDP office closes for two paid weeks over Christmas and New Year.

• 4% pension (3% employer and 5% employee contributions)

• Access to training and mentoring opportunities to develop in the role, if needed.

• Flexibility in working hours and TOIL.

• Central London office space.

We are looking for an administrator who can work the equivalent of 3 days per week hours flexibly, adapting to the needs of the organisation. When work is carried out by any Migrant Democracy Project employee outside normal working hours, time off in lieu is applied.

Location and working hours

Migrant Democracy Project’s office is in Vauxhall, London. Staff have daily access to the office and the team co-works from there regularly. This role can be done remotely, however, we expect the role-holder to join the team in-person for strategy days which happen every few months. 

This is part-time role at 0.6 FTE. Working days are flexible, equivalent to 3 days per week between Monday to Friday, as long as most of the hours match MDP’s usual working hours (9:30 am - 5:30 pm). The role holder can also have different working days on different weeks as long as that is communicated well in advance and noted in the team calendar.

The role is based in the UK and open to individuals with an existing right to work in the UK.

Responsibilities

We are looking for a strategic Operations and Fundraising Manager who can skillfully identify the organisational and team needs and can propose and implement solutions, ranging from project management tools, HR systems, and other systems tools. The ideal candidate will be scanning the horizon, ensuring the organisation has the appropriate policies and thinking long-term about its financial and organisational needs.

Lead the Operational Management of Migrant Democracy Project

• Review existing operational policies and procedures, identify improvements and updates, and implement them to ensure the smooth running of Migrant Democracy Project.

• Lead the development and implementation of operational infrastructure, including systems for project management to ensure efficient progress of the organisation’s objectives.

• Ensure Migrant Democracy Project is in compliance with relevant policies, including data privacy, safeguarding, risk register, and others and support the team in implementing them.

Lead on People Management and Recruitment

• Implement and manage all people and culture functions and internal processes including systems for leave, TOIL, employment contracts, and other identified needs.

• Support the Executive Director with recruitment processes, such as job vacancy promotion, sifting application forms and booking interviews.

• Ensure all members of staff, including consultants, have all their documents, including contracts and consultant agreements, up to date and that systems are in place to support the team to navigate probation and contract renewals.

Fundraising and Evaluation 

• Identify grant opportunities for the organisation, manage application deadlines and work with the staff team to support writing grants.

• Maintain MDP’s grant database up to date and manage Google Drive grant documentation folders, including supporting the Executive Director to meet funders’ requirements such as quarterly reports.

• Manage and track staff budget sheets for grants, working with the Finance Manager.

• Support the Executive Director and all team members in writing progress reports to funders, both when required and proactive updates to all funders. 

• Implement an evaluation system to be able to measure and report on outputs required by each grant.

• Liaise with MDP’s staff team to collect data for evaluation reports.

Lead on online systems for the team

• Manage MDP’s Google Drive folders, ensuring information is up to date.

• Manage staff access to shared workspaces and folders.

• Manage staff accounts, such as creating new emails and managing permissions.

• Manage MDP’s generic info inbox and direct queries to relevant staff where applicable.

• Support the Executive Director with new staff onboarding and manage their Google Suite access. 

Diary and Office Support

• Support with booking rooms and team meetings as needed e.g. team Strategy Days.

• Create a calendar of relevant MDP events for all staff and support the team’s long-term project planning.

• Manage travel and accommodation booking for MDP staff members for required events.

• Process all relevant office orders, such as printing, stationery and office equipment.

• Regularly assess office needs and proactively ensure the stocks of MDP materials (such as leaflets, business cards, etc.) are appropriate. 

Finance Support

• Work with the Finance Manager to create budget templates and monitor them regularly.

• Pay small invoices under £500 and process staff expense forms on a monthly basis.

• Manage MDP’s invoice folders and create invoices from MDP’s templates when required.

• Submit relevant invoices and receipts to Xero’s inbox.

• Manage MDP’s Soldo account and top-up expense cards for staff as appropriate.

Qualifications

We are looking for an organised and efficient Operations and Fundraising Manager with the following essential skills:

• At least three years of demonstrated experience of leading projects or teams, including managing multiple people and budgets

• Demonstrable experience in fundraising, such as grant writing.

• Excellent organisation skills, with extensive experience in project and program management, and a proven ability to plan, organise, and lead the implementation of plans and processes.

• Experience of creating systems and organisational processes that are effective, efficient, and embed and socialise them with the team and key external partners.

• Experience in project monitoring and evaluation.

• Experience using Xero, Soldo or similar software for processing invoices and expenses.

• Experience in diary management.

• Excellent knowledge using Google Suite.

• Comfortable in a start-up environment and experience working in a small team, where flexibility is required to meet emerging tasks and deadlines.

• Excellent attention to detail and communication skills.

Essential behaviours:

• Show a passion for and commitment to our values and building migrant power.

• Be able to work inclusively and build engagement and trust with people of all backgrounds.

• Show a willingness to take initiative in the pursuit of Migrant Democracy Project’s goals. Take responsibility for delivering your work to a high standard, and be able to ask for support when you need it.

• Be able to work independently and in a remote environment, whilst valuing opportunities to work as part of a close team.

• Be a good team player, able to liaise effectively with different team members and draw on people’s expertise and specialisms to make decisions and ensure progress.

• Treat Migrant Democracy Project’s staff and partners with dignity, respect and care - building strong and impactful relationships where possible.

Decision-making timeline

We are looking for the Operations and Fundraising Manager to start in early March 2026. The applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis.

Interview process

● Stage 1: shortlisted candidates will be invited for a 15 minute interview via phone or Zoom.

● Stage 2: if successful after Stage 1, shortlisted candidates will be invited for a 75 minute interview via Zoom or in-person depending on the candidate’s place of residence. This will include a practical exercise and questions about your experience. You will have an opportunity to ask us questions as well.

Our partner, a respected and established international charity supporting programmes across Africa; seeks a qualified and experienced senior finance professional to provide strategic financial leadership, maintain robust systems, controls, and donor compliance across the organisation. The Director of Finance is responsible for organisational financial strategy, budgeting, reporting, external audits, risk management, and supporting programme delivery through high-quality financial oversight.This hands-on role requires the Director of Finance to execute daily tasks as well as overseeing, and mentoring, others within the team to undertake what is required.

Key responsibilities:

Strategic Leadership & Financial Planning 

• Lead the organisation’s financial strategy ensuring sustainability and alignment with mission and organisational priorities. 

• Advise the CEO and Board on financial performance, risk, and scenario planning. 

• Develop long-term financial models and cashflow forecasts. 

• Provide financial insight to strategic decisions, business cases, growth opportunities, and operational planning. 

Financial Management & Control 

• Oversee and execute specific tasks relating to financial operations including accounting, treasury, cash management, payroll, and banking. 

• Ensure monthly, quarterly, and annual financial closes are accurate and timely. 

• Maintain and strengthen internal financial controls across central team and country/project operations. 

• Implement efficient systems and processes to support a lean but compliant financial environment. 

Budgeting & Organisational Performance 

• Lead the annual budgeting process 

• Monitor budget performance, variances, and financial KPIs, providing clear analysis for senior leadership. 

Donor Finance & Grant Compliance 

• Oversee donor grant finance, ensuring compliance with institutional donor restrictions and requirements. 

Audit & Assurance 

• Lead the annual organisational audit: prepare schedules, financial statements, and required disclosures. 

• Ensure compliance with charity accounting standards (SORP) 

• Oversee financial donor audits, ensuring timely, accurate responses and evidence. 

Risk Management 

• Contribute to the organisational risk register by recording and presenting on financial risks to the Board and Finance and Audit Committee. 

• Implement financial due diligence for donors, suppliers, and country operations as required to meet organisation and donor policies. 

Oversight of International Operations 

• Ensure strong financial management of new country programmes creating and reviewing and renewing policies as required. 

• Support the development or review of financial systems, capacity, and reporting in relation to new country expansion work. 

• Oversee financial arrangements for countries where the INGO has no legal entity, including fiscal hosts, secondee payments, and contract structures. 

Leadership, Management & Culture 

• Lead, mentor, and develop the finance team to achieve operational excellence. 

Person Specification 

• Worked as a Finance Director or as a Head of Finance (with autonomy of decision making and board reporting duties) 

• Strong understanding of charity accounting standards and regulatory requirements. 

• Senior-level finance experience in an INGO, charity, or multi-country organisation (preferably with operations in the Global South) 

• Fully qualified accountant (ACCA, CIMA, ACA, CPA or equivalent). 

• Demonstrable experience with institutional donor compliance. 

• Experience leading annual audits and preparing financial statements. 

• Strong leadership and team management skills, including developing staff. 

• Strong budgeting, forecasting, and financial analysis skills. 

• Experience managing multi-currency environments and international financial operations. 

• Ability to communicate financial information clearly to non-finance staff, senior leaders, and Boards. 

For more than 30 years, War Child has been driven by a single goal: to ensure a safe future for every child affected by war. We work in some of the world’s most challenging contexts, reaching children as quickly as possible when conflict breaks out and remaining long after the cameras have gone. Through protection, education, community support and advocacy, we help children heal, learn and rebuild their lives. One child caught up in conflict is one too many, and we exist to make sure they are never forgotten.

We are now seeking an Interim Director of Finance & IT (maternity cover) to join our Leadership Group at a pivotal moment for the organisation. Reporting directly to our CEO, this role is about continuity, momentum and leadership. You will take responsibility for two critical functions and play a central role in shaping how War Child UK is funded, governed and enabled to deliver impact, both independently and as part of the wider War Child Alliance.

This is a role for someone who wants their expertise to matter. You will lead our finance and IT functions, ensuring our systems, processes and data provide the clarity and confidence needed to make bold, informed decisions. Your insight into income, cost and performance will directly influence how we invest, grow and maximise our fundraising potential.

Alongside this, you will play a key role in long-term financial planning and cross-Alliance collaboration, helping to build robust frameworks that support sustainable growth and accountability. Working with fellow directors, you will help steward the organisation as a whole, ensuring War Child UK remains resilient, ambitious and ready to meet the scale of the need we exist to address.

You will be a qualified accountant with significant strategic and operational experience. While prior international development experience is not essential, you will need to demonstrate the ability to build trusted relationships across cultures and geographies. Experience in a complex, fundraising-led organisation will be highly advantageous.

We are keen to hear from both experienced directors and senior leaders who are ready to step into their first executive role. If you are motivated by purpose, thrive in complex environments and want your leadership to create real change, we would love to hear from you.

Tall Roots is acting as an employment agency partner to War Child UK. For an informal conversation about the role, please contact Mark Crowley at Tall Roots.

Life is a national charity committed to delivering high‑quality, compassionate and person‑centred support to people facing crisis. Guided by our values of Humanity, Solidarity, Community, Charity and the Common Good, we work across multiple sites to provide safe, effective and life‑changing services.

The Role

We are seeking an exceptional Director of Quality Improvement and Compliance to join our Senior Leadership Team at an exciting time of organisational development.

Reporting directly to the CEO, this is a senior, influential role with strategic responsibility for quality, safeguarding, compliance, estates and continuous improvement across our national portfolio of services.

You will provide visible, values‑led leadership, ensuring that everything we do is safe, effective, person‑centred, financially sustainable and fully compliant with regulatory requirements. This role has a real opportunity to shape the future of Life – and to positively impact the lives of hundreds of people we support.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide strategic leadership on quality improvement, compliance and continuous improvement across supported housing, estates and services
• Hold senior accountability for safeguarding governance, complaints and assurance frameworks
• Lead audit, inspection and review activity, ensuring consistently high standards and strong regulatory outcomes
• Embed a culture of quality, learning and improvement across multi‑site services
• Oversee property compliance, health & safety and estates management, ensuring safe and welcoming environments
• Use data, insight and digital systems to drive performance, manage risk and support innovation
• Act as the organisation’s senior lead with regulators, inspectors and professional bodies
• Work collaboratively with fellow Directors to deliver a joined‑up, high‑quality client journey
• Develop, coach and inspire senior leaders, fostering a high‑performing, values‑driven culture

About You

You will be a credible, values‑led leader with a strong background in regulated services and a passion for quality and safeguarding.

Essential experience and qualifications include:

• Senior leadership experience within supported housing, homelessness or a closely related regulated sector
• Proven success leading multi‑site services and senior operational leaders
• Strong track record in quality improvement, safeguarding, compliance and inspection readiness
• Sound financial and commercial awareness, including managing significant budgets and resources
• Lean Six Sigma qualification
• Level 5 Safeguarding qualification
• Health & Safety qualification (IOSH Managing Safely or equivalent)

You will also bring:

• Strategic thinking with the ability to translate vision into practical delivery
• A collaborative, visible and approachable leadership style
• Integrity, humility and purpose in how you lead
• A commitment to co‑production, continuous learning and innovation
• Strong communication, influencing and relationship‑building skills

Information about the role: 

For further information, please see the attached job description on our website. 

Salary: £50,285 per annum

Hours: 32 hours per week

Location: Home Based with travel across sites in the UK

Benefits:  

At Life we are passionate about providing our employees with a supportive and engaging environment. As well as ongoing development and training, we offer our:  

• Generous holiday allowance, starting at 25 days per year, plus 8 Bank Holidays (pro rata for part time hours) 
• Birthday Leave  (applicable after 1 years service)
• Additional annual leave for long term service    
• Company Pension Scheme  
• Signed member of the Menopause Workplace Pledge 

Safeguarding and Equality:   

Life is committed to protecting all staff, volunteers and service users from harm of any kind. Life expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment through our code of conduct.   

We are committed to ensuring diversity and equality within our organisation by encouraging applications from all backgrounds.  

All offers of employment will be subject to satisfactory references and appropriate screening checks. Life takes its obligation to protect the rights of children and vulnerable people very seriously; therefore, the successful candidate for this post will be also subject to extensive background checking, including an enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service check (DBS) which is paid for by the Charity.  

Help protect the green spaces that matter to every community — forever

Parks, playgrounds, sports fields and green spaces are essential to our physical and mental wellbeing, to thriving communities, and to a healthier planet. Yet too many of these spaces are under threat.

Fields in Trust exists to change that. For over 100 years, we have worked to legally protect the UK’s green spaces so they can never be lost to development. Following our centenary year and the launch of a bold new five-year strategy, we are now focused on growing our impact, strengthening our organisation, and securing our long-term future.

The opportunity

We are seeking a values-driven Director of Finance and Resources to join our Senior Leadership Team at a pivotal moment for the charity.

This part-time role is about far more than numbers. It is an opportunity to use your financial leadership to safeguard green spaces for generations to come — ensuring Fields in Trust has the resilience, systems and governance needed to deliver lasting impact.

You will play a central role in shaping our financial strategy as we diversify income, develop new commercial opportunities, and continue to evolve as an organisation. Alongside finance, you will also provide strategic oversight of our resources, including IT, HR, facilities and risk.

What you’ll do

• Shape and lead a long-term financial strategy that supports our mission and ambitions
• Provide clear, insightful financial analysis and forecasting to inform strategic decisions
• Work closely with trustees and the Finance, Audit and Risk Committee to ensure strong governance, transparency and accountability
• Strengthen and develop the finance function (currently outsourced), embedding robust systems, controls and reporting
• Support the growth of new income streams through financial modelling and commercial insight
• Oversee budgeting, statutory accounts, audit and compliance
• Ensure our IT systems, data and digital infrastructure are secure, effective and fit for the future
• Provide strategic oversight of HR processes, payroll, pensions, facilities, health and safety and business continuity
• Be a key part of the SLT and play a critical role in shaping wider strategy and direction
• Provide clear communication and in-depth support as the key interface between finance and the rest of the organisation

Who we’re looking for

You will be an experienced senior finance leader who combines strong technical expertise with a deep sense of purpose. You might come from the charity, public or private sector, but you will share our commitment to protecting green spaces and public benefit.

You will bring:

• Strategic financial leadership experience at senior level
• A strong understanding of governance, risk and working with boards or trustees
• Experience supporting organisations through change or growth
• A collaborative, inclusive and pragmatic leadership style
• The ability to balance strategic thinking with hands-on delivery in a part-time role

Most importantly, you will be motivated by our mission and excited by the opportunity to make a lasting difference.

Recruitment timeline

Application deadline: Sunday 8th February, midnight

Shortlisting:w/c 16th February

First stage interviews: w/c 23rd February

Second stage interviews: w/c 2nd March

How to apply

To apply, please send your CV and a supporting statement (no more than two pages) to via the link.

If you’d like an informal conversation about the role, please contact our exclusive partner, Bryony Thomas via the Allen Lane agency website.
 

WORKING WITH US

The founder and sponsor of the Harris Federation, Lord Harris of Peckham, opened our first school in 1990. We have, over the past thirty years, implemented ideas and initiatives that have transformed the opportunities of pupils from working class and disadvantaged backgrounds. Harris academies are widely recognised as a force for social mobility. We are immensely proud of the role that our alumni are now beginning to play in the world and of what we believe our current generation of pupils will go on to achieve.

We now have over 50 schools educating more than 40,000 young people across London and Essex, and employ over 5,000 staff across our academies and head office. With the majority of our academies located in areas of high socioeconomic disadvantage, a high-quality education is key to the futures of the pupils we serve.

As a provider of employment and education, we value the diversity of our staff and students, and all our staff are equally valued and respected. We are committed to providing a fair, equitable and mutually supportive learning and working environment for our students and staff.

Our work will impact many generations to come, and our staff come from all backgrounds and walks of life, coming together to inspire young minds. We promote an inclusive culture that embraces the valuable and enriching contribution that all of our community make. We continue to be proactive in uplifting and supporting all voices at Harris.

To discover more about our culture, ethos and what it is like to work here, visit the page.

ABOUT THIS OPPORTUNITY

We are seeking an organised, proactive and professional Personal Assistant to provide high-level support to the Director of Secondary Education at the Harris Federation. This 1-year fixed-term maternity cover role is central to ensuring the smooth running of the Director’s day-to-day operations, including diary management, stakeholder communication, meeting coordination and the preparation of key documents.

As part of our Head Office team, you will work closely with senior leaders and colleagues across our secondary academies, playing an important role in supporting the Federation’s mission to deliver an outstanding education for thousands of young people. This is an excellent opportunity for someone who thrives in a fast-paced environment, demonstrates exceptional attention to detail, and enjoys building strong, professional relationships.

MAIN AREAS OF RESPONSIBILITY

Your responsibilities will include:

• To present the professional and welcoming face of the Harris Federation and all secondary academies, to all visitors, staff and students, in person and on the telephone.
• To ensure that the Director’s diary is managed efficiently and effectively. This will involve liaising with a variety of external and internal stakeholders.
• To provide a daily/weekly diary and documentation and maintain an overview of approaching deadlines.
• To maintain the Director’s contacts.
• To maintain an exemplary professional environment for the Director at all times.
• To ensure that all visitors are welcomed and catered for in a professional manner, organising refreshments as appropriate.
• To exercise complete discretion when dealing with issues of confidentiality and sensitivity.
• To take all telephone calls, in the first instance, dealing with queries, passing on calls if necessary.
• To keep the Director’s meetings file and retrieve necessary paperwork as and when meetings arise.
• To be responsible for organising meetings and passing on messages between all stakeholders, parents/carers, external agencies and students and the Director.
• To liaise with clerks to Governors to ensure that all relevant paperwork and correspondence is efficiently managed for all the secondary academies.
• To support the Director with the preparation of paperwork and presentations for a range of meetings including interviews, disciplinary hearings, grievances, performance management, presentations, training sessions etc.
• To liaise with Federation admin teams, Data, HR, IT and Finance Business Managers, as well as PAs and Principals across the Federation as appropriate.

For a full list of responsibilities, please download the Job Pack.

WHAT WE ARE LOOKING FOR

We would like to hear from you if you have:

• Appropriate degree or equivalent experience in previous roles
• Trained in the use of a variety of ICT packages
• Knowledge of personal assistant roles and responsibilities
• Training in typing and formatting of a variety of documents including spreadsheets
• Experience of managing staff in relation to the PA role
• Some experience of human resources e.g. recruitment and/or monitoring attendance
• Experience of working to targets and deadlines
• Experience of managing meetings including preparation and circulation of papers, minutes and ensuring information is circulated as required
• Ability to communicate well both orally and in writing
• Ability to work to deadlines
• Ability to be flexible
• Ability to communicate exceptionally well with parents and carers as well as other stakeholders in the academy

For a full job specification, please download the Job Pack.

APPLYING FOR THIS POSITION

If you would like to discuss the opportunity further, or if you have any questions, please contact us via email to arrange a conversation.

Before applying please ensure you download the job pack from our careers website, this will help with completing your application. Please note that we only accept applications submitted online before the closing date.

When applying, you will have the option to import your CV or use a LinkedIn profile which will auto populate the online application.

A reminder to check your junk mail for our email communications and add us to your safe senders list to ensure all future email communication is received.

OUR VISION & VALUES

Our vision, from the start, has been to provide the structure and services needed for our schools to amount to more than the sum of their parts, and to free-up our teachers and leaders to focus on one thing and one thing only: the outstanding education of all their pupils. Our young people and communities are at the heart of everything we do. Our core mission has always been to close the educational gap between young people from disadvantaged backgrounds and their peers. Our ambition is one where every child in London, no matter their background, has equal access to high quality education, giving them the same opportunities and potential to succeed.

We know there are many challenges facing our young people and the communities we serve, and that’s why we need determined people like you to help us tackle those inequalities. Whilst each of our academies has their own unique cultures and values; as a whole Federation, we have four core values which are central to successfully achieving our vision: Excellence, Collaboration, Support, and Innovation. We are proud of our values because they guide us in how we work allowing us to achieve the best possible outcomes for our young people, communities, and colleagues.

IMPORTANT INFORMATION

Safeguarding Notice

The Harris Federation and all our academies are committed to ensuring the highest levels of safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people, and we expect all our staff and volunteers to share this commitment. All offers of employment are subject to an enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check, references, an online search, and where applicable, a prohibition from teaching check will be completed.

Equal Opportunities

The Harris Federation is an equal opportunities employer and welcomes applications from all suitably qualified candidates. We value the diversity of our staff and students, and everyone at the Harris Federation is equally valued and respected. We aim to be an inclusive employer that reflects the communities we serve. We are committed to providing a fair, equitable and mutually supportive learning and working environment.

WHAT WE CAN OFFER YOU

Harris has a strong culture of collaboration and best practice, with professional development and career planning at its centre. We invest in our staff with support, coaching, mentoring, and a wide range of top-quality training programmes delivered at every level.

You will also have access to a variety of benefits, support programmes and initiatives including:

• Excellent opportunities for continuous professional development and career progression
• Annual performance and loyalty bonus
• Pension scheme (Teachers' Pension Scheme or Local Government Pension Scheme) with generous employer contribution
• 26 days' annual leave (inclusive of our Christmas Eve closure day) plus bank holidays, rising to 27 days after 2 years' service, or equivalent for staff on term time contracts
• Harris Wellbeing Cash Plan including cover for routine and specialist healthcare
• Employee Assistance Programme for free and confidential advice
• Cycle to work salary sacrifice scheme
• Wide range of shopping, leisure, and travel discounts
• 20% off at Tapi Carpets, exclusive to Harris employees
• Interest-free ICT and season ticket loans

For most non-teaching staff based at our Head Office in East Croydon, we also offer lifestyle friendly working arrangements including flexible start and end times, and hybrid working with two days from home and three days on site.