Executive director jobs

This is a rare opportunity to lead one of Yorkshire’s most respected community foundations and help shape the future of giving across Calderdale.

For over 35 years, Community Foundation for Calderdale (CFFC) has connected people who care with causes that matter. We believe local generosity has the power to transform lives, strengthen communities and create opportunities for everyone to thrive.

As an independent charitable funder, we work with individuals, families, businesses and organisations to invest in local charities and community groups tackling some of Calderdale’s biggest challenges. Every year, we distribute more than £2 million in grants to support people and places across the borough. At the same time, we are building our permanent endowment, creating a lasting legacy that will continue supporting local communities for generations to come.

This is what makes CFFC unique. We do not just make a difference today. We create a legacy that will benefit Calderdale in perpetuity.

Following many years of successful leadership from our current Chief Executive Officer, we are seeking an exceptional leader to build on this strong foundation and lead CFFC into its next chapter.

About the role

Reporting to the Board of Trustees, you will provide strategic and operational leadership, ensuring CFFC continues to grow its impact, strengthen partnerships and inspire philanthropy across Calderdale.

You will lead and develop a committed staff team, work closely with Trustees, build trusted relationships with donors, businesses, professional advisers, charities and public sector partners, and ensure the organisation remains financially sustainable, well-governed and ambitious for the future.

You will also act as CFFC’s public ambassador, representing the organisation across Calderdale and beyond, while championing the importance of local giving and community investment.

About you

We are looking for an inspiring and collaborative leader with significant senior leadership experience and the ability to build confidence and credibility with a wide range of stakeholders.

You will demonstrate:

Proven strategic leadership and organisational management experience.

Experience of developing successful partnerships, fundraising, income generation or business development.

Strong financial and governance awareness.

Excellent relationship-building, communication and influencing skills.

Experience of leading and developing high-performing teams.

A genuine commitment to community impact and the values of the voluntary sector.

You may come from a community foundation, charitable trust, grant-making organisation, charity, public sector, social enterprise or a commercial organisation with a strong social purpose.

What we offer

Salary in excess of £60,000, dependent on experience.

Permanent, full-time position.

Flexible and hybrid working, with a regular presence required in Calderdale.

20 days annual leave plus bank holidays, additional Easter Tuesday leave and office closure over the Christmas period, rising to 25 days after five years’ service.

Employer pension contribution, with details available in the candidate information pack.

The opportunity to lead a respected local foundation with a strong legacy, deep local relationships and ambitious plans for the future.

Closing date: 31 July 2026

First round interviews: Week commencing 17 August 2026

Second round interviews: Week commencing 24 August 2026

CFFC is committed to equality, diversity and inclusion. We welcome applications from people of all backgrounds and are happy to discuss any adjustments candidates may need during the recruitment process.

If you are an ambitious leader who wants to build on a strong legacy, inspire local philanthropy and help create lasting change for communities across Calderdale, we would love to hear from you.

Main Purpose of the Post

The Chief Executive will have overall responsibility for all aspects of the day to day running of the RLSS and all its services. This will include management of staff and ensuring the services are meeting the needs of those who require them, in addition to managing finances, membership and external relationships. The post holder will be accountable to and work closely with the Board Chair and its Directors to set the strategic direction and further develop the business model which will serve Religious Life Groups for the future.

Key Duties and Responsibilities

Strategy & Leadership and Governance

· Provide visible, ambitious, and focused leadership of the RLSS.

· Be overall responsible for the management of the RLSS working in conjunction with the Chair and Directors to provide leadership.

· Lead and contribute to the Board’s overall development of the strategy and annual plans to ensure achievement of a One Church approach to applying the Church’s safeguarding standards.

· Ensure risks to the overall objectives of the RLSS are identified, mitigated, and reported to the Board.

· Develop a culture of resilience, adaptability, and continuous learning within the organization to navigate challenges and maintain trust among victims/survivors and members.

· Develop and promote services and practice improvements which are designed to mitigate risk and improve understanding within safeguarding.

· Effectively sustain a culture that consistently meets the needs of and engages with victim/survivors and with Religious.

· Foster and develop a climate of shared accountabilities, learning and continuous improvement.

· Ensure the RLSS meets it statutory, legal, and regulatory obligations.

· Ensure appropriate presentation and reporting to the Board (and any sub committees and advisory groups) on the progress of the RLSS and on all matters relevant to the discharge of the Board’s responsibilities.

· Oversee all promotional activities, press releases, digital presence, radio, and newspaper interviews.

Staffing & Management.

· Be accountable for the recruitment, retention, ongoing development, and wellbeing of RLSS staff.

· Enthusiastically and effectively, lead, shape, and influence teams to deliver the vision and goals of RLSS to ensure best practice in the delivery of all its safeguarding services. 

· Create a supportive working environment which promotes transparency and collaboration in safeguarding.

· Ensure that high quality people management is embedded across the service and foster a high performing culture with shared accountabilities and continuous improvement. 

· Ensure the effective management and implementation of robust performance management and appraisal processes.

· Provide direction, support, and set clear objectives to immediate line reports.

· Provide or arrange professional supervision to safeguarding case working staff.

· Produce, review and update plans relating to service areas.

· Establish and maintain effective and secure record keeping systems.

· Ensure the management and implementation of regular quality assurance, audit, performance management and reporting, using effective management information systems, ensuring this meets CSSA’s requirements.

Collaboration/Networks.

· Contribute to strategic level initiatives with key partners, particularly the Catholic Safeguarding Standards Agency (CSSA) and relevant statutory agencies, to ensure joint planning, access to resources and the development of interagency strategies.

· Build strong and dynamic relationships and networks within and outside the Church to deliver better outcomes for Religious in safeguarding.

Policy and Procedure

· Ensure a robust and up to date Policy & Procedure framework approved by the Board is in place including HR, Health and Safety, Data Protection and operational delivery.

· Ensure there is a system in place to review approved policies and procedures to ensure that substantial changes or additions are brought to the Board for decision.

· Undertake operating compliance exercises including annual risk assessments, health and safety checks and reporting on incidents and near misses.

· Ensure

Finance & Resources

· In conjunction with the Board of Directors, develop a long-term funding strategy, including gathering data, completing research, developing models to ensure the service is cost effective.

· Agree and deliver to budget maintaining a reserve level in line with policy and monitor all budgets and provide financial reports to the Board of Directors.

· Be responsible and accountable for all finances and resources within the teams, ensuring value for money, the avoidance of waste, and the efficient and effective use of all resources.

· Ensure the equitable and timely allocation of work, assuring the most appropriate interventions that timescales are being met and appropriate records maintained.

· Be responsible for all contracts, tenancy agreements and leases.

· Have overall responsibility for the security of confidential information, use of computers and database information.

· Well-developed database and Microsoft Office skills.

This a summary of the key activities of the post.  It is not intended to be an exhaustive list and the post-holder may be required to perform other duties which are appropriate to the scale and nature of the job role.

Role Requirements

Essential Criteria you need to be able to demonstrate:

Strategic and system leadership

• Experience of working at Chief Executive level in similar size/larger organisation.

• A strong track record leading organisations, setting direction and delivering outcomes

• Resilience and the ability to work under pressure whilst showing consideration to others.

Culture and capability building

• motivating people, driving, and evaluating performance, and building a positive and inclusive culture

Commercial and professional judgement

• Professional knowledge and experience that evidence a strategic and operational understanding of safeguarding

• Management skills including finance, planning, project management and marketing.

• Strong commercial acumen.

• Experience of negotiating and managing contracts.

• Excellent verbal and written communication skills, and competence in using digital technology for service delivery across the organisation.

• A creative thinker, proven leader with a ‘can do’ attitude which is results orientated.

Stakeholder engagement and influence

• Interpersonal and listening skills; an ability to deal sensitively with those in Religious Life, Victims/Survivors public, the vulnerable and their families/representatives.

• Skills in conflict resolution, negotiation and problem solving.

• Experience of reviewing evidence and taking appropriate action where necessary; applying sound judgement, with an attention to detail; maintaining confidentiality and building trust

• Ability to respond, sensitively and fully to complaints.

Desirable Criteria you need to be able to demonstrate:

· Understanding of the way in which faith-based organisations respond effectively/ dysfunctionally to safeguarding issues

· Senior management experience in the charitable sector

Due Diligence – Please note that as part of the safer recruitment process, due diligence including social media checks will be undertaken on appointable candidates.

At Citizens Advice Manchester, our clients are at the heart of everything we do.

We're a forward-thinking, ambitious organisation delivering high-quality, multi-channel advice to some of Manchester's most vulnerable communities. If you're a collaborative, values-driven leader who wants to make a real difference, this is an opportunity to shape the future of our frontline services.

Working closely with the Chief Operating Officer, you'll lead operational excellence across the organisation - driving strategic performance, service quality, regulatory compliance, continuous improvement, and an inclusive, high-performing culture. You'll oversee quality assurance, safeguarding, complaints, incident management, and operational performance while developing and empowering our Operational Managers to deliver outstanding services.

We're looking for an experienced operational leader with a proven track record of leading frontline or public-facing services. You'll be data-driven, commercially aware, and confident using performance insight to improve services, manage risk, and influence decision-making. You'll bring experience of quality and compliance frameworks, strong stakeholder management skills, and a genuine commitment to equity, diversity and inclusion. Experience within the advice or not-for-profit sector is desirable, alongside a strong commitment to the values and principles of the Citizens Advice service.

Joining CAM offers an opportunity to directly influence the quality of support provided to our clients. We value all our people and can offer a supportive, responsible culture within a charity setting that is committed to social justice.

The role attracts an attractive remuneration package with excellent terms including: 

• Flexible 37.5 hour (hybrid) working week in a City Centre location 
• Pension Scheme, Life Assurance Cycle to Work Scheme 
• Corporate Cash Plan (Medicash) and Employee Assistance Programme with 24/7 telephone support service for you and your immediate family
• Generous holiday entitlement starting at 25 days per year (in addition to bank holidays) and rising with long service to a maximum of 30

The Job Pack containing full information about the role and our service can be downloaded from our website. 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Chief Executive

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

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

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

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

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

We are interested in hearing from leaders who bring:

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

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

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

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

Recruitment Timetable

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

                                                               Marshall’s Charity

Chief Executive and Clerk to the Trustees

£90,000 per annum + benefits Marshall’s Charity, 66 Newcomen  Street, London SE1 1YT

The Charity was formed in 1631 on the death of John Marshall, a baker in Southwark. In his Will, after making provision for his family and friends, he left the balance of his modest estate to trustees to be used for various charitable purposes. The Charity is funded solely from this endowment and carries out its charitable purposes principally by awarding grants for the Marshall's Educational Foundation, the restoration and repair of parsonages and Anglican churches and as Patrons to  Christchurch, Southwark.

The post holder will be a key part of a small, dedicated and friendly team and play a pivotal role in the organisation by leading on all matters of finance, compliance, regulatory and risk management and office administration systems. In doing so you will be making a tangible and long-lasting contribution to the Charity 

The ideal candidate will:

• demonstrate senior financial experience including accounting, cash management, liaison with contractors, relevant law
• hold a professional accountancy qualification 
• possess excellent oral and written communication skills
• demonstrate proven administrative, IT and organisational skills
• have experience of corporate and fiscal governance gained within the professional, charitable or wider not-for-profit sectors
• be supportive of the Charity’s aims and sympathetic to the cause of the Church of England
• have a positive “can do” attitude

Whatever your professional background, unquestionable commitment, honesty, integrity and energy, along with an eye for detail, are essential. Candidates should be within easy reach to the offices near London Bridge. If you share our commitment and interest and have the skills, motivation and experience to join us we would be keen to hear from you. 

How to Apply

Download further details of the position from our website:

Marylebone Executive Search

For an informal confidential discussion call Richard Evans or Kevin Everett number found on website.

Apply online with a full Curriculum Vitae detailing your skills, qualifications and experience together with a two-page covering letter outlining your motivation to undertake the role and how you meet the competencies required for the position as stated in the Person Specification.

Closing date for applications:                                                       9 August 2026

Long List interviews:                                                                           14 August – 10 September 2026

Short List interviews:                                                                           w/c 21 September 2026

Candidate Visits and Final Panel Interviews:                                    w/c 28 September 2026

Start Date:                                                                                             mid-January 2027

We're looking for a Strategic Operations Manager to lead RSPCA Warrington, Halton and St Helens, taking full day-to-day responsibility for the branch and reporting directly to our board of trustees.

This is an exciting time to join us, as we take steps to secure the future of our branch. 

Our current team is small but dedicated, with an established Management Team who oversee our kennel and cattery facility, a foster network and rehoming programme, a dedicated staff animal care team and volunteer programme, and income generation.

This work can be emotionally demanding, both for the team and for anyone leading it, and we're looking for someone who can support people through that while keeping the branch moving towards its goals.

We want to hear from people who are ready to take on full operational responsibility for a charity at an important point in its development, and who can bring both the financial and people skills to help us get there.

The full role profile is attached to this listing, with a complete breakdown of responsibilities and the person specification. In summary, we're looking for someone with:

• A track record of leading and managing teams through change, with experience of income generation, budget management and financial reporting
• Line management experience, including performance review and development, and the confidence to handle difficult conversations with care and consistency
• Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to build trust quickly, ideally backed by experience in animal welfare, the charity sector, a federated charity structure, and/or reporting to a board of trustees
• An empathetic, decisive and commercially minded approach to leadership, with the resilience to support a team through emotionally demanding work

We welcome applications from candidates looking to take a step up in their career, where the right attitude and clear potential are evident.

How to Apply

Please submit your CV along with a cover letter setting out the skills, experience and behaviours that make you a strong fit for this role, and answer a short set of eligibility questions as part of your application.

Shortlisted candidates will be invited to an interview which will include a short presentation based on a brief provided in advance.
We anticipate interviews will take place WC 31st August and/or WC 7th September 2026. Please indicate in your application if you do not have availability during these weeks. 

What We Offer

• Excellent remuneration package
• Full uniform and job-related equipment
• 28 days annual leave
• Employee Assistance Programme
• Full time or four days per week considered
• Up to one day per week working from home
• A supportive and engaged board with clear delegation and decision-making parameters
• A talented and committed team ready for strong leadership
• Genuine scope to shape the direction of the organisation at a pivotal moment
• A meaningful mission with real impact across Warrington, Halton and St Helens

CHIEF EXECUTIVE

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

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

Essentials:

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

Benefits:

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

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

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

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

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

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

Reports to: Chief Operating Officer 

Contract: Full-time 
Location: Remote, with at least one all staff in-person meet up annually in the UK 
Salary: £70,000 - £90,000 per annum 
Benefits: 40 days holiday + 2 activism days + 1 duvet day 

Why this role matters 

At HOST, we believe that anyone, anywhere, should be able to drive transformative climate and social action - without being held back by operational barriers, financial risk or hostile environments. We host the world’s changemakers so they can focus on delivering the impact only they can create. 

The Finance Director plays a critical role in ensuring HOST’s financial management is robust, compliant, transparent and scalable across both our internal operations and our project hosting services. This role brings financial leadership to the organisation, supporting strong decision-making, reliable reporting, effective controls and continuous improvement across our finance function. 

The role sits within HOST’s senior leadership and works closely with colleagues across the Delivery, Partnerships, Legal and Engagement circles, as well as the Board, to ensure we can deliver high-quality support to partners while managing risk and using resources well. 

The role in a nutshell 

The Finance Director leads the Finance Team and is responsible for HOST’s financial management, ensuring strong compliance with policies, procedures and regulatory requirements.

The Finance Director is part of the HOST Leadership Team and would have line management responsibility for three Finance Managers within the Finance team. 

Key Responsibilities 

• Oversee HOST’s financial management, ensuring compliance with policies, procedures and relevant regulatory requirements. 

• Develop and monitor budgets for both HOST operations and hosted projects. 

• Provide regular financial reporting to the Leadership Team and Board. 

• Lead efforts to improve financial systems, controls and workflows. 

• Ensure robust financial oversight of hosted projects and HOST’s internal systems. 

• Contribute as an integral member of the Leadership Team, bringing financial insight to strategic and operational decision-making. 

• Manage cashflow strategy, including multi-currency considerations. 

• Oversee delivery of monthly management accounts. 

• Develop and report on profitability across HOST’s range of services and offerings. 

• Support HOST’s strategic direction by working with the Leadership Team on KPIs and organisational dashboards. 

• Ensure effective, timely and efficient delivery of the following by the finance function: 

• Records of income and expenditure, including grants, donations, receivables, consultancy receipts and invoices. 

• Transparent and accurate financial data in finance systems and other interconnected databases. 

• Regular weekly reconciliation of transactions, including oversight of bills to pay, bank statements and payment service providers for HOST. 

• Month-end reporting, including management reports and accounts such as income and expenditure statements, balance sheets, cash flow statements and KPIs. 

• Restricted donor financial reports, ensuring alignment with accounting records and donor compliance requirements. 

• Payroll services for HOST and hosted projects. 

• Accounting reports for new services. 

• VAT preparation and submission. 

• Records of income and expenditure are maintained: grants, donations, receivables, and consultancy receipts, invoices 

• Transparent and accurate financial data in Xero and other interconnected databases 

• Regular weekly reconciliation of transactions in Xero, including oversight of bills to pay, bank statements, and payment service providers for HOST 

• Month-end reporting process by preparing management reports and accounts, such as income/expenditure statements, balance sheets, cash flow statements, and KPIs 

• Restricted donor financial reports, ensuring alignment with accounting records and donor compliance 

• Payroll service for HOST and hosted projects 

• Accounting reports for new services 

• Managing VAT preparation and submission 

Knowledge and Experience 

• Proven experience as an SME finance leader 

• Qualified accountant: ACA, ACCA or CIMA. 

• Experience implementing financial controls and processes. 

• Multi-currency cashflow and treasury management experience. 

• Experience setting budgets and forecasts. 

• Internal audit experience. 

• Ability to work under pressure and deliver projects to tight deadlines. 

• Minimum 5 years’ people management experience. 

• Excellent knowledge of cloud-based working. 

• Knowledge and experience using Sage or other similar accounting systems 

• Knowledge and experience of other relevant software applications, such as Excel, Teams, ClickUp etc. 

• ESG or sustainable finance experience. 

• Software implementation experience. 

Key Competencies 

• Strategic thinking 

• Strong verbal and written communication skills 

• Attention to detail 

• Planning and organising 

• Time management 

• Interpersonal skills 

• Initiative 

• Confidentiality

• Reliability 

• Leadership of staff

Essential Abilities 

• Ability to confidently discuss financial narratives with senior leaders and Board members. 

• Ability to prioritise and organise own workload and time to meet priorities and deadlines. 

• Ability to identify problems and develop practical solutions to work-related issues. 

• Able to communicate confidently and effectively with a wide range of people, including handling queries in a tactful and confidential manner. 

• Strong stakeholder management skills and ability to business partner effectively with non-finance colleagues. 

• Good organisation and administrative skills. 

• Able to work effectively as part of a team. 

• Ability to undertake a range of financial functions. 

What success in this role looks like 

• Finance systems, reporting and controls are robust, reliable and audit ready. 

• Leadership Team and Board decisions are informed by clear, timely and useful financial insight. 

• Hosted partners receive accurate, consistent and responsive financial support. 

• The finance function continues to improve workflows, systems and reporting as HOST grows. 

At HOST, we believe change starts with people who care. 

If you’re passionate about building strong financial systems that help changemakers thrive - and want to play a key leadership role in supporting climate and social change around the world - we’d love to hear from you. 

The General Assembly of Unitarian and Free Christian Churches (GA) is the central charity that supports its member congregations, ministers and societies in England, Scotland and Wales. Its purpose is to promote free and inquiring religion, through inclusive, free-thinking communities that draw on wisdom from all sources, without doctrine or dogma. Our congregations are autonomous and locally led; the GA is not a hierarchical leadership body, but one that supports and leads alongside our members. 

As Britain’s religious culture and context has changed, so have Unitarian communities, and the GA is in a process of adapting to best meet these changing needs. 

The purpose of this role 

This is a new role, being the operational engine to strengthen the organisation at a time of change. Shifts in the wider Unitarian movement with patterns of innovation, rebuilding, and growth alongside congregational vulnerabilities and closures mean that the GA’s operational function must adapt. 

This role would suit someone who is excited to manage governance, systems, and data as strategic enablers in a values-driven organisation, who can drive change while delivering operational excellence. 

This is a role with real scope to shape how an organisation that is approaching its centenary works in the years ahead - including how good data, digital systems, and emerging tools can support a small team to make best use of its resources and build capacity for relational work. 

The Operations Director will work closely with the Chief Officer, and will be a collaborative and proactive enabler to lead a transition to a future-fit organisation that can better serve its members and have a greater impact. 

You don't need to be Unitarian or a person of faith to apply. We welcome candidates from all backgrounds and beliefs who are drawn to work within a values-led organisation. 

What you’ll be doing 

• Strategy & organisational development — Partner closely with the Chief Officer to shape strategy, translate priorities into action, and build the systems that make us resilient.

• Governance, legal & compliance — Serve as Company Secretary, stewarding our transition to CIO and ensuring we meet our legal and regulatory obligations with confidence.

• Financial oversight — Ensure financial management arrangements (including outsourced providers) deliver accurate, timely information and sound controls; work with the Honorary Treasurer and external accountants on budgeting, fund oversight and audit support, escalating risks and holding providers to account. 

• Systems, data & digital — Lead our information infrastructure, oversee our CRM migration, and champion a culture of good data practice — including thoughtful use of AI where beneficial.

• People & HR — Line manage two team members and keep our HR and supplier relationships running smoothly, with care and clarity.

• Unitarian relationships — Nurture collaborative relationships with key Unitarian bodies from an operational perspective, including governance support for affiliated organisations.

• Events & communications — Take operational ownership of the Annual Meeting and ensure the infrastructure behind our communications is solid and reliable. 

See the attached job description for more details. 

What core skills and experience you’ll have 

Essential: 

• Senior operations leadership experience in a purpose-led or membership organisation, with a track record of building capacity through periods of organisational change. 

• Experience leading complex organisational change and systems transformation, including the people dimensions of change. 

• Experience managing contracted delivery of services by third parties 

• Financial literacy sufficient to own management accounts, lead a budgeting process, and act as a critical friend to trustees on financial governance.

• Must be comfortable interrogating financial information and holding external providers to account; accountancy qualification not required 

• Experience of leading the implementation or significant improvement of CRM, financial management, or other organisational systems — including managing migration risk 

• Experience of people management, and good HR / employment practice 

• Substantial experience of charity governance and compliance 

• Solid working knowledge of UK charity law and Charity Commission requirements, including the ability to advise senior colleagues and trustees with confidence 

Desirable: 

• Experience of property or building management, including leases, tenancy relationships, and facilities oversight 

• Experience of a CIO conversion or similar legal restructuring of a charity 

• Familiarity with Salesforce or similar CRM platforms 

• Experience of working in a faith, membership, or congregational context 

• Company secretarial experience 

Please note: We've listed essentials and desirables in good faith, but we know no one is the finished article. If you bring the right values, approach, and most of the experience, we would love to hear from you. 

About the role 

• JOB TITLE: Operations Director 

• LOCATION: Central London (Essex Hall, WC2) and home-based hybrid. Minimum 2 days per week in the office. 

• WORKING HOURS: Full-time 35 hours a week. Part-time applications (min. 4 days a week) considered. 

• SALARY: £55,000 per annum 

• START DATE: ASAP 

Our benefits package includes 

• 30 days holiday, plus English bank holidays 

• Workplace pension scheme (7% Employer contribution) 

• Staff support budget for personal development and wellbeing 

• Membership of financial wellbeing programme (Maji) 

Apply for the position of Operations Director 

Please submit a cover letter and CV via the link below to make an application. 

In your cover letter, we would like to understand what it is that has drawn you to this role, what it is about the General Assembly’s work that resonates with you and what experience you have of implementing organisational change. 

Please note: Applicants must have the right to work in the UK. We are unable to sponsor visa applications. 

The deadline for applications is Wednesday 15th July 2026, 23:59 BST. 

Our initial first stage interviews will take place on Wednesday 22nd July 2026. These interviews will be in person at our Head Office, Essex Hall, in Central London and we will reimburse travel expenses (standard class public transport). 

Shortlisted candidates will then be invited to a final video interview taking place week commencing 27th July 2026. 

Please keep these dates free and be aware that there will be a short notice period before each interview.

The interview process will include a prepared task, and you'll be given plenty of time in advance to work on it - we want to see your thinking, not test you under pressure. 

If you need any reasonable adjustments to support you through the interview process, please just let us know - we're happy to help. 

Purpose of the post

The Associate Director of Finance is a senior leadership role, responsible for ensuring the charity’s financial health through sound management of its day-to-day financial operations, strong internal controls, and regulatory compliance. This post exists to provide leadership to the team, oversee treasury management, payment processing, payroll, and audit functions, and continuously improve financial processes and systems to support the charity’s long-term sustainability and mission.

With overall responsibility for the Finance and Funding Team, reporting to the Chief Operating Officer, the role ensures that the organisation’s financial framework is robust, supporting effective decision-making and delivering transparent, accurate financial reporting. The post-holder will also play a key role in revitalising the internal audit framework, ensuring the charity maintains high standards of accountability, and is prepared for future growth.

Main responsibilities

Financial Operations and Treasury Management:

• Oversee the day-to-day accounting operations, ensuring effective controls and timely processing of transactions.

• Manage the charity’s treasury function, including cash flow forecasting and management of HDR UK’s bank accounts.

• Oversee maintenance of the accounting system, ensuring it supports effective financial reporting and compliance.

• Review and approve weekly payment runs and monthly payroll.

• As the organisation’s Finance lead, provide advice and guidance to the Senior Leadership Team regarding HDR UK’s financial position, controls and processes, and strategic direction.

Financial Reporting and Compliance:

• Lead the preparation of the charity’s annual accounts, ensuring they meet statutory reporting requirements and deadlines.

• Manage relationships with external auditors and coordinate the audit process.

• Ensure compliance with reporting requirements to regulators and other authorities (including HMRC, Charity Commission, The Pension Regulator, ONS)

Quarterly Forecasting and Budgeting:

• Work closely with the Financial Planning & Analysis Manager on quarterly forecasting and the annual budgeting process.

• Ensure alignment between financial operations and the charity’s broader strategic goals.

• Support the production of monthly management accounts.

• Work with the Associate Director of People to carry out the annual salary review, making recommendations founded on economic analysis and impacts on budget to SLT and the Remuneration Committee.

Process Improvement and Systems Management:

• Drive continuous improvement of internal financial processes, ensuring they are fit for purpose and scalable.

• Oversee and refresh HDR UK’s internal audit framework, ensuring the charity maintains strong internal controls.

• Implement and monitor key financial controls to safeguard the charity's assets, including management of the fixed asset register and ownership of HDR UK’s insurance policies.

Team Leadership:

• Directly manage the Finance Manager, Financial Planning & Analysis Manager, Senior Finance Business Partner and Finance Business Partner, providing mentorship and development opportunities.

• Lead and develop HDR UK’s Finance & Funding team, fostering a high-performance culture focused on continuous improvement, collaboration, and professional growth.

Governance and risk management:

• Support the development and implementation of financial policies, risk management strategies, and internal controls to maintain robust financial governance.

• Management of the delegated authority framework to increase efficiency in the approvals process while maintaining accountability.

• Attend and actively contribute to meetings of Senior Leadership Team, Board and relevant sub-committees such as Audit & Risk.

Stakeholder management:

• Build and maintain strong relationships with operational and finance teams within HDR UK’s wider community and network of university partners, ensuring transparent and effective communication and collaboration.

Experience

Required:

• Proven experience in a senior finance leadership role within the UK charity sector with a robust understanding of the Charities Statement of Recommended Practice.

• Proven track record of managing and leading financial operations, including treasury management, audit oversight, and financial reporting.

• Experience in developing and improving internal financial controls.

• Previous experience managing and developing high-performing finance teams.

• Experience working with multiple stakeholders, including senior leadership, external auditors, and operational teams.

Desirable:

• Demonstrated experience in reviewing and approving payroll, payment runs, and managing complex financial transactions.

• Experience in developing and improving internal audit frameworks.

• Experience working on quarterly forecasting, annual budgeting processes, and the production of management accounts.

As a key member of the Senior Leadership Team, you will help shape the strategic direction and future growth of TCVS, working closely with the Chief Executive, Board of Trustees and senior colleagues to deliver our organisational ambitions.

You will:

• Provide strategic leadership across all corporate services, including HR, Finance, IT, Facilities, Health & Safety, Compliance, Administration and Organisational Systems.
• Ensure operational systems, policies and processes are efficient, compliant, scalable and support organisational excellence.
• Lead organisational development, workforce planning and continuous improvement, fostering a high-performing, inclusive and values-led culture.
• Oversee governance, risk management, business continuity and regulatory compliance, supporting the Board to deliver effective governance.
• Monitor organisational performance, ensuring delivery against strategic priorities and organisational objectives.
• Drive digital transformation and innovation, embedding technology and systems that improve efficiency, data quality and organisational learning.
• Support the long-term financial sustainability of TCVS by developing earned income opportunities, partnerships and trading activities.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with trustees, partners, funders, tenants and key stakeholders, representing TCVS across Thurrock and South West Essex.
• Contribute to organisational resilience, growth and future expansion through effective leadership, planning and decision-making.
• Deputise for the Chief Executive as required and provide leadership across the organisation.

You will also champion equality, diversity and inclusion, promote staff wellbeing and professional development, participate in the on-call rota, and undertake other responsibilities appropriate to this senior leadership role.

This is an exciting opportunity for a values-led and dynamic leader to become CEO of Rochdale and District Mind and guide us in our mission to make a positive impact on the mental health and well-being of our communities.

About us

Rochdale and District Mind is an independent mental health charity that supports people facing mental health and wellbeing challenges. A part of the national Mind Federation and the Mind in Greater Manchester partnership, our goal is to ensure that individuals do not face mental health issues alone and can live free from stigma and discrimination.

About the role

This role offers an excellent opportunity for an empathetic leader to shape our strategy and cultivate a culture of continuous learning, inclusion, and support, fostering a spirit of celebration for achievements across all teams.

Your leadership will both shape our strategic vision and deliver our operational plans, ensuring robust governance and championing diversity and inclusivity. You will also spearhead the efficient, effective, and safe management of our organisation, in line with our mission, strategy and values.

Committed to mental health advocacy, you will elevate our impact for service users through meaningful co-production of services and by your ability to build effective relationships with partners and commissioners.

Collaborating closely with our dedicated Board of Trustees and experienced Senior Leadership team, you will oversee resource management, finances, and operations, upholding the highest standards throughout and ensuring our growth and long term sustainability.

About you

• Experienced as a CEO/senior leader in a similar sized (or larger) voluntary organisation or an organisation delivering services into the sector or working closely with the voluntary sector.
• Passionate about our mission of ensuring that people do not face mental health and emotional wellbeing issues alone and are free from stigma and discrimination.
• Demonstrable experience as a values-led, resilient and people-centred leader.
• Experience of supporting teams through change.
• Strong financial acumen, able to develop and monitor/evaluate financial plans, budgets management accounts etc.
• Experience of building a culture that promotes continuous learning, inclusion, collaboration, and accountability.
• Proven track record of successful business development/fundraising.
• Able to balance strategic oversight with operational grip.
• Experience of the demands of governance and compliance, including working with Boards of Trustees/NEDs.
• Excellent communication and influencing skills.

Understanding of challenges affecting the voluntary sector.

Benefits:

• Auto-enrolment Pension scheme with 3% contribution from the organisation
• Opportunities for hybrid working after an initial embedding period
• Training and development opportunities
• Our commitment to providing wellbeing opportunities in support of staff, including an Employee Assistance Programme

How to apply

Eastside People is supporting Rochdale and District Mind in the recruitment for this role. Please apply by submitting your CV and a cover letter. You are welcome to send your cover letter in writing, or as a video or audio clip, alongside your CV.

Please respond to the following areas in your cover letter:

• Your familiarity with mental health and wellbeing challenges and how this resonates for you
• Your experience/knowledge in relation to the Person Specification.

Please note that we will focus on your demonstrable experience and potential in the areas listed under the Person Specification and do not expect candidates to have experience in all responsibilities outlined in the Job Description.

We would discourage you from deselecting yourself if you are in doubt about meeting all the criteria.

The closing date for applications is noon on Monday July 27 2026, and our candidate assessment schedule is anticipated as follows:

• Eastside People longlisting interviews will be held throughout the advertising phase up to and immediately after the above closing date – online
• First Interviews with Rochdale and District Mind will be held on Friday August 7 or August 14 in-person at their offices
• Final interviews with the Board are planned for Friday August 14 or, week commencing August 24 2026 - online

We would like to encourage candidates to apply early for the role where possible.

We want you to have every opportunity to demonstrate your skills, ability and potential. If you have a disability or require reasonable adjustments during the application/interview process, please contact us so we can support you appropriately.

REF-229 627

Finance Director

Hours of work 30 hrs / 4 days per week, permanent contract

Based Newhaven, with some hybrid working available after completing induction

Starting Salary £60K per annum pro rata

Are you an experienced senior level finance decision maker with broad cross sector knowledge, who demonstrates excellent communication skills, and wants to use your skills to support a community facing organisation? If so, we would welcome your interest and application!

You will be a qualified accountant, with an understanding of the complexities of working within the 3rd sector funding framework.  With responsibility for providing expert strategic financial advice and professional input right across the organisation, you will ensure the finances of the Charity run smoothly and efficiently.  You will consider the wider internal and external factors presented to you by our internal knowledge experts alongside the financial position in order to support the delivery of the services and enterprises, which fulfil the organisation’s mission and values.

You will also provide effective leadership and direction of the well-regarded finance team with a person-centred approach.

Providing sound financial, contract & risk management advice and ensuring compliance with legal, statutory and audit requirements, you will contribute to the strategic leadership of the charity as an active member of our Senior Management Team.

We are looking for people to join our team who have the qualities and skills we feel would most benefit our internal and external clients; professionalism, empathy, kindness and understanding. In return, we understand people want to work in a supportive environment with friendly colleagues. We offer a flexible, hybrid approach to delivery wherever possible, annual leave of 25 days per year pro rata plus bank holidays and sick pay from the start (increasing with service), additional sick pay per year for planned operations and recovery, a pension scheme, bereavement leave, and managers who are available to you… plus a day off for your birthday!

Interviews will be held in Newhaven.

Closing date: 5pm on Sunday 19th July 2026

1st stage interviews:  Wednesday 29th  July 2026 / 2nd stage interviews: w/c Monday 3rd August 2026

 For the job description and to apply, please visit the website

Completed application forms can be sent to HR

 You may think that you’re not a 100% match to what we’re looking for, but we recognise that some skills and experience may be transferable rather than an exact match. If you’re unsure about whether to apply, please do contact the HR team, and we would be happy to arrange an informal discussion with the CEO or current FD.

SCDA includes: Employability; Community Advice and Wellbeing; Community Development & Health

Registered Charity Number: 1094905

Company Limited by Guarantee: 3387617