Director of finance and business improvement jobs

At Special Olympics GB, we're changing the way people think about intellectual disability.

Every day, our athletes challenge expectations, inspire communities and demonstrate what's possible when people are given the opportunity to thrive.

Corporate and commercial partnerships are fundamental to making that happen. They enable us not only to generate sustainable income, but to create opportunities for our athletes through volunteering, employment, leadership, education, inclusion and powerful brand collaborations.

As we build towards the Special Olympics World Summer Games in Chile and continue to grow our national movement, we're looking for an exceptional partnership professional to lead and evolve this work.

This isn't a traditional charity partnerships role. We're looking for someone who combines exceptional stewardship with commercial curiosity, entrepreneurial thinking and creativity. Someone who enjoys spotting opportunities, challenging conventional approaches and designing partnerships that create genuine shared value.

You'll inherit an exciting portfolio of national partners (Coca-Cola Europacific Partners, Toyota GB, Fuller’s pubs, Ocean Outdoor, Mitsubishi Electric UK and others), lead a small but ambitious team, and work alongside the Director of Development to shape the future of one of the UK's most exciting purpose-led partnership programmes.

Are you a forward-thinking finance leader who thrives on building a high-performing team and delivering a highly efficient and dependable finance function?

Wycliffe Bible Translators is one of the most exciting Christian charities to work for. We are a dynamic organisation with a big vision – a world where everyone can know Jesus through the Bible.

As our Assistant Director of Finance, you will hold direct operational accountability for our processes and outputs, serving as a vital steward of the resources that support our global mission. We are looking for a relational, rigorous accountant eager to serve as a key deputy and strategic partner. You will own the integrity of our financial engine, but you will use a business-partnering approach to work alongside our departments to best serve the organisation.

• Salary: £60,000-70,000 + benefits
• Location: Home based or the option of a desk in our Oxford or Belfast offices.
• Terms of appointment: Full-time (37.5 hours per week). Permanent
• Closing date: Thursday 23 July at 9am
• Interview date: Interviews will be held in Oxford on 11-12 August

Key responsibilities:

• Finance function control
• People development and leadership
• Strategic support and business partnering
• Systems, innovation and ethos

Benefits include:

• 33 days’ annual leave, including bank holidays
• Competitive contributory pension scheme
• Employer pension contributions up to 7.5%
• Fully employer-funded life assurance
• 24/7 employee assistance programme for emotional and practical support
• Family-friendly employer
• Monthly in-person team days in Oxfordshire or the Chilterns (expenses covered)
• Hot-desking facility at Belfast office
• Fully paid-for professional development opportunities.

​It is an occupational requirement of this role that you have a clear, personal commitment to the beliefs set out in our Statement of Faith and Doctrinal Position Statement.

Role purpose

The Head of Finance is a key member of the Charity’s senior management team, working closely with the chief executive, directors, and trustees. The head of finance will lead the day-to-day financial operations of the Charity, including budgeting, reporting, audit, payroll, and pensions. Managing the finance manager and management accountant, the Head of Finance will ensure the effective running of the finance department and smooth day-to-day processes. Reporting directly to the Chief Executive, you will be a key advisor on strategic financial decisions, balancing meticulous operational control with strategic planning.

As the Head of Finance, you will:

• Proactively contribute to the development and delivery of the Charity’s strategy through developing long-term financial planning to underpin our objectives.
• Act as senior finance business partner to the senior leadership team, supporting strategic and operational decision-making.
• Lead on the annual audit and production of statutory accounts, ensuring effective management of the audit process.
• Support the rest of the Charity team to become financially informed and comfortable understanding financial performance, control, and accountability.

Main responsibilities

Financial controls, reporting, and operational finance

• Lead the finance function of the Charity, ensuring accurate, timely, and compliant financial management and reporting.
• Ensure that appropriately robust internal financial and operational controls are in place.
• Ensure that our unrestricted and restricted funds and accounting records are maintained in accordance with legal and regulatory requirements and best practice.
• Ensure timely and accurate monthly management accounts and other reports are produced by the finance team and distributed to members of the senior management team, encouraging ownership of departmental budgets.
• Manage and oversee accounts receivable and payable, ensuring strong cash management.
• Ensure all banking facilities, financial systems, and internal processes function to a high standard and enable the Charity to carry out its transactional and operational financial functions.
• Lead financial risk identification and mitigation, working closely with the chief executive and leadership team, and reporting to the board of trustees.

Financial administration and governance

• Manage the production of statutory accounts in line with the Charity SORP and lead the annual external audit process.
• Oversee our tax affairs, including PAYE, national insurance, corporation tax, VAT, and gift aid.
• Responsible for our payroll and pensions functions.
• Maintain and continuously improve financial policies, procedures, and controls, working closely with the fundraising and operations teams to ensure organisational efficiency.
• Identify and escalate financial risks to the chief executive and board
• Line manage and support the management accountant and finance manager, ensuring professional development and high-quality output.

Person specification

Knowledge and experience

We are looking for candidates with demonstrable strategic financial leadership spanning organisational planning, budgeting, risk, and reporting. You will have:

• You must be a fully qualified accountant (ACCA, ACA, OR CIMA)
• Excellent knowledge of charity financial management, SORP, and audit is essential.
• Experience of effective budget setting and implementing controls and processes to manage and monitoring budgets
• Firm understanding of risk management
• Experience of improving policies and processes in comparable organisations
• Success in delivering increased cost effectiveness
• Evidence of building financial impact and performance metrics and reporting
• Understanding of the requirements of legislation, Charity Commission and professional body guidance on a being a well-run and financially accountable Charity
• Considerable experience of management and development of staff

Skills, abilities, and behaviours

• A strategic thinker with the ability to see the bigger picture and make decisions in line with the charity’s needs as part of a team
• Strong change management skills with experience of managing teams through change
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to interpret and communicate financial information to a non-specialist audience
• Strong organisational development skills, able to identify and act on opportunities to drive performance in business
• Experience of the charity or not-for-profit environment (this could be gained as a trustee) preferably with some understanding of charity funding and investment management
• Collaborative working style with excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Resilient with a flexible, creative and solutions-focused approach to problem-solving

Switchback is an award-winning charity supporting young men to live life differently after prison. As we launch our next strategic plan to grow our impact even further, we are looking for a new Director of Finance and Operations who can bring both strategic thinking and hands-on operational expertise to help us turn our ambitions into reality.

The Director of Finance and Operations is a key role in the leadership team of a dynamic charity making a real difference in young people’s lives. Managing a small team, you’ll have responsibility for a range of essential business functions central to Switchback’s success as a charity: financial and business planning, HR processes, infrastructure (including IT), governance, risk management and compliance.

You’ll also support our business development and strategic partnership-building, helping us tap into exciting new areas of income and impact, including our plans to share our learning through training and consultancy.

Crucially, you’ll oversee and develop our systems and processes in a way that protects Switchback’s agile and human working culture. This is a fantastic opportunity to play a central role helping Switchback achieve our aims of reaching more young men while inspiring change across the justice system and beyond.

The right candidate will have great strategic judgement, proven financial and business acumen, practical knowledge of operations and good governance, and a strong understanding of creating and leading high-performing teams.

You will have a collaborative approach to working with colleagues and trustees, enjoying getting stuck into the day-to-day business of running a growing charity, as well as the ability to bring in new external partnerships and contractual relationships that serve our commitment to providing real opportunities for our Trainees.

You will be driven to achieve great value for money and use smart processes to enable others to do their best work for a vital social cause.

As well as technical expertise, this role acts as a key sounding board for the CEO and Leadership Team, so you’ll also bring excellent listening skills and the confidence to act as a thinking partner across both strategic and operational issues. As a member of the Leadership Team, you’ll also model our values in the way you work, collaborate and communicate.

If you are interested in using your proven financial and operations management skills to contribute to our exciting next chapter, we’d love to hear from you. In return we can offer the opportunity to work in an organisation with a strong history of personal and strategic impact, where each day you will witness the incredible steps that our Trainees make to change their lives.

Director of Finance & Operations

Resource Justice Network

9 – 12 Month FTC (an immediate permanent appointment is also possible)

£90,374 per annum (or, the day rate equivalent Outside IR35)

About Resource Justice Network

Resource Justice Network (RJN) is the world's largest civil society network advocating for just and equitable governance of the planet's natural resources.

Growing out of the Publish What You Pay campaign, the member-led network now brings together over 1,000 organisations in more than 50 countries — primarily in the Global South, where extractive and energy industries operate.

With two decades of experience securing transparency, accountability and justice in the oil, gas and mining sectors, RJN works at every level, from frontline communities to global policy, towards a vision of shared prosperity on a thriving planet: societies governing their natural resources in just and equitable ways, in harmony with the planet.

Having undergone significant transformation, notably the launch of a new organisational strategy, Strategy 2030, Resource Justice Network is seeking an exceptional Director of Finance & Operations to join a passionate, highly capable, Senior Leadership Team and play a pivotal role in shaping the next chapter of a global, member-led movement.

Reporting to the Executive Director, the Director of Finance & Operations will be a trusted strategic advisor to both the Executive Director and Global Board, with responsibility for stewardship of the organisation’s finances and management of funding in a complex, ever-evolving, landscape.

Whilst the role retains responsibility for Operations, you'll be supported by an experienced Head of Operations who leads day-to-day operational delivery. You'll also be supported by a highly capable Management Accountant and Grants & Compliance Accountant, enabling you to drive strategic financial direction while also overseeing and delivering the statutory responsibilities of the role too.

Key Responsibilities

· Provide strategic financial leadership to the Executive Director, Global Board and Finance & Fundraising Committee.

· Lead the annual budgeting process, quarterly forecasting, multi-year financial planning and scenario modelling.

· Support fundraising by providing robust financial analysis and reviewing funding proposals.

· Ensure excellent stewardship of restricted donor funding and organisational reserves.

· Lead and develop the finance function, encompassing a highly capable Management Accountant and Grants & Compliance Accountant.

· Oversee the organisation's banking and cash management.

· Lead the annual audit, acting as the main point of contact for external auditors.

· Support the Head of Operations in overseeing organisational operations and governance.

· Produce clear, insightful financial reporting that enables effective decision-making.

· Maintain robust financial controls, compliance and organisational accountability across an international operating environment.

The successful candidate will have:

· A recognised accounting qualification (ACA, ACCA, CIMA or UK-recognised equivalent).

· Experience operating as the number one in finance, supporting executive and non-executive directors

· Significant experience working in an international donor-funded organisation, with a strong understanding of restricted donor funding and grant management.

· Experience working across diverse countries, cultures and governance structures.

· Proven ability to build effective relationships with Boards, Executive teams and non-finance stakeholders.

· Excellent communication skills, with the ability to translate complex financial information into clear, practical insight.

· A collaborative leadership style, sound judgement and the confidence to provide constructive challenge.

· Experience overseeing operational functions such as HR, governance or IT would be advantageous but is not essential.

Salary & Benefits

· Salary of £90,374.

· 8% employer pension contribution.

· 40 days annual leave, inclusive of public holidays.

· Hybrid working, with attendance at the London office one day per week.

· The opportunity to help shape the future of an internationally respected organisation making a tangible difference across more than 50 countries.

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

About Hackney School of Food

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

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

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

About the role

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

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

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

Key priorities

In your first 12 months you will:

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

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

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

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

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

Key Responsibilities

Strategic Leadership 

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

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

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

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

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

Financial sustainability and income generation 

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

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

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

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

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

Partnerships & External Relations

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

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

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

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

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

Governance and public benefit 

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

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

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

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

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

• Maintain effective governance, delegated authority and accountability frameworks. 

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

People, Culture and safeguarding

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Risk Management & Compliance

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

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

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

Personal specification

Essential experience 

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

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

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

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

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

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

• Experience of governance, compliance and organisational risk management.

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

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

Essential skills and attributes

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

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

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

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

• Strong communicator with excellent relationship-building skills. 

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

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

Desirable 

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

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

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

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

An inclusive workplace

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

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

How to apply

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The Leverhulme Trust

Finance Manager

Circa £65,000 per annum

Permanent, Full Time

Office based in City of London, closest stations Chancery Lane, Temple & Blackfriars

Hybrid working, minimum 40% office attendance

About the Leverhulme Trust

The Leverhulme Trust is one of the UK's largest and most prestigious charitable research funders. Established in 1925 under the will of the First Viscount Leverhulme, the Trust supports outstanding curiosity-driven research and education across all academic disciplines, awarding approximately £120 million annually through more than 600 grants.

With a substantial investment portfolio and a long-standing commitment to advancing knowledge, creativity and independent thinking, the Trust plays a vital role in supporting researchers and institutions across the UK and beyond. Despite its scale and influence, the organisation remains deliberately lean, with a close-knit team of around 20 staff delivering significant national impact.

As the Trust continues to enhance its financial systems, reporting capability and governance arrangements, we are seeking an experienced Finance Manager to join the team and play a key role in supporting both operational excellence and strategic decision-making.

About the Role

Reporting directly to the Director of Finance, the Finance Manager will play a central role in overseeing the Trust's financial accounting, investment reporting, cash management and governance activities.

This is a broad and varied position offering exposure to a significant investment portfolio, complex financial reporting requirements and engagement with senior stakeholders. Working within a small, highly professional team, you will combine technical accounting expertise with a hands-on approach, helping to strengthen financial processes, develop management reporting and support key organisational initiatives.

This is a unique opportunity for a qualified accountant who enjoys operating across both strategic and operational finance, and who is looking to make a meaningful contribution within an intellectually stimulating and purpose-driven organisation.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead investment accounting and reporting for the Trust's substantial investment portfolio and associated charity.
• Prepare statutory accounts and act as the main contact for external auditors.
• Manage cashflow forecasting, treasury activities and cash management.
• Develop and enhance financial and management reporting through Microsoft Business Central and other systems.
• Drive improvements to finance processes, controls and reporting during a period of systems development.
• Support Investment Committee meetings, prepare Board papers and lead production of the Trustees' Annual Report.
• Build strong relationships with colleagues, auditors, custodians and investment managers to ensure effective financial oversight and governance.
• Provide broader support to the Director of Finance across governance, risk and operational initiatives.

About You

We are looking for a technically strong and proactive finance professional who thrives in a collaborative environment and enjoys balancing detailed financial work with strategic projects.

You will bring:

• A recognised accounting qualification (ACA, ACCA, CIMA or equivalent).
• Strong financial accounting and statutory reporting experience.
• Experience of investment accounting, financial services or auditing organisations with significant investment portfolios would be advantageous.
• Sound knowledge of financial reporting principles, with charity accounting experience desirable but not essential.
• Experience improving financial processes, systems and reporting.
• Excellent analytical, organisational and problem-solving skills.
• Strong communication and relationship-building abilities.
• A hands-on, adaptable approach and willingness to contribute across a broad range of activities.

Why Join the Leverhulme Trust?

• This is a rare opportunity to join one of the UK's most respected charitable institutions and work at the heart of an organisation that invests heavily in research, education and innovation.
• Generous 25% pension contribution scheme
• Play a key role within a nationally significant charity with a multi-billion-pound endowment.
• Work closely with senior leadership and gain exposure to investment management, governance and strategic decision-making.
• Influence the development of financial reporting and processes.
• Join a supportive, collaborative and intellectually engaging environment.
• Have genuine opportunity to make a visible and lasting impact within a small, high-performing team.

Apply Now

The Leverhulme Trust is partnering with Allen Lane on the recruitment of this opportunity.

For a confidential discussion and further information, please contact Iain Slinn at Allen Lane.

Vital Strategies is a global public health organization. Our programs strengthen public health systems and address the world’s leading causes of illness, injury, and death. We currently work in more than 80 countries, supporting data-driven decision-making in government, advancing evidence-based public health policies, and mounting strategic communication campaigns. Vital Strategies’ priorities are driven by the greatest potential to improve and save lives. They include noncommunicable disease prevention, tobacco control, road safety, food policy, environmental health, and data for health. Our programs are concentrated in low- and middle-income countries and cities in Africa, Latin America, Asia and the Pacific. Please visit our website to find out more about our work.

We believe our programs are strengthened when they are developed and supported by people with diverse life experiences whose understanding of social and cultural issues can help make our work and workforce more inclusive. We welcome applications from people of all backgrounds and do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion or creed, gender, national origin, ancestry, actual or perceived age, physical or mental disability, veteran or military status, marital status, sexual orientation or any other basis protected by local, state, or federal laws. As such, our commitment is to promote equal employment opportunities (EEO) for those seeking employment.

Job Purpose:

Vital Strategies has experienced significant growth in both its programs and global footprint in recent years. As the organization continues to expand, it is essential that our people practices remain legally compliant, operationally effective, culturally responsive, and forward-thinking to support an increasingly diverse and distributed workforce.

We are seeking an experienced Global HR leader who will continue to build on our efforts to strengthen global HR operations and compliance. This is an exciting opportunity for a collaborative, culturally agile leader who is passionate about operational excellence, continuous improvement, and making a meaningful global impact. 

The Director, Global HR Operations and Compliance is a critical leadership role within the Human Resources function, responsible for advancing HR operational excellence, strengthening global compliance, and supporting the continued evolution of our people practices. With seven global offices and Employer of Record (EOR) arrangements in thirteen countries, this position provides strategic leadership and oversight for Vital's global HR operations, compliance framework, and employee services, ensuring consistent, efficient, and legally compliant HR practices across all locations.

The Director will lead the development and implementation of inclusive policies, procedures, and best practices; provide guidance on global employment actions and employee relations matters; support workforce expansion into new countries; and oversee global compensation, benefits, and HR governance programs. This role is responsible for identifying and mitigating employment-related risks while ensuring a positive employee experience and operational consistency across diverse jurisdictions.

Reporting to the Vice President, Global HR, the Director partners closely with organizational leaders, HR colleagues, legal counsel, country offices, and external partners to strengthen HR infrastructure, optimize systems and processes, and enhance the organization's ability to manage a global workforce effectively. Success in this role requires deep global HR expertise, strong judgment, cultural sensitivity, and the ability to lead change while balancing organizational standards with local legal, cultural, and operational requirements.

This job opportunity may be based in the UK, Switzerland, or Kenya. Vital Strategies will offer a competitive salary based on local market benchmarking. Additional locations in Europe and Africa where Vital Strategies is operational may be considered. The applicable salary ranges for the hiring locations are:

• UK: £110,000- £120,000
• Switzerland: CHF 120,000 to 140,000
• Kenya: KES 14,000,000- 18,500,000 KES

Duties & Responsibilities:

Global HR Operations - 

· Maintain a high-quality global HR operations function, including standardized policies where legally appropriate, standardized processes, technology, systems, tools, forms, and guidelines that are accessible, well understood, and consistently utilized across all offices.

· Balance global organizational standards and compliance requirements with the operational, cultural, and legal realities of individual country offices, ensuring an appropriate and practical approach across diverse environments.

· Build trusted relationships with global office leadership, HR and Country Directors, to encourage transparency, collaboration, and timely sharing of HR-related information necessary for effective operations, risk management, and compliance.

· Partner with, support, and advise global HR team members and Country Directors on HR operational matters; while supporting local HR partners in assuming HR functions locally as appropriate for each office.

· Lead global HR due diligence (terms and conditions of employment, infrastructure and documentation) and manage the maintenance of international office employee handbooks and guides for EOR-hired staff.

· Partner with leadership, programs, and operation teams in opening offices or establishing EORs; as well as closing offices or programs.

· Ensure compliance with regulatory reporting requirements, maintenance of required documentation, and timely responses to HR audits and coordinate with the risk management committee.

· In partnership with local HR teams, lead annual global employee benefits renewals, including plan design, vendor coordination, and budget management.

· Oversee global compensation programs, including salary benchmarking, pay review processes, compensation guidance, and manager training.

· Work with Talent Acquisition, Grants & Contracts and Global Finance to coordinate the annual and reforecast workforce budget.

· Oversee the establishment of EORs and the ongoing vendor/employee/manager relationships.

· Ensure the global HR team is trained in the core HR operational areas, as well as any Vital HR specific procedures and practices.

· Ensure that HR policies, procedures, and compliance documents are accessible to all staff via the organizational intranet “Vital Pulse”.

· Collaborate with HR team to implement, analyze, and maintain operational metrics and people data to inform decision-making and strengthen organizational effectiveness.

· Serve as a key HRIS company administrator and partner to global HR teams, leveraging technology to improve HR operations, reporting, compliance and data integrity.

· Partner with HR and operational leaders to ensure HRIS data accuracy globally, establish effective governance processes, and support local teams in maintaining timely and accurate employee records.

Compliance - 

· In collaboration with Legal and VP HR, ensure that HR processes, policies, recordkeeping, and forms are in compliance with regulations, country and local labor laws, and donor guidelines.

· Oversee policy, process and procedure documentation to ensure consistency, accessibility, and compliance across the organization.

· Conduct spot checks to employee files to ensure audit readiness and compliance; and provide training to HR team members responsible for maintaining documentation.

· Ensure compliance with the Vital global data retention policy for employee data and HR documentation.

· Identify and proactively mitigate HR operational and compliance risks through strong controls, monitoring, documentation practices, and partnership with local offices.

Employee Services - 

· Coordinate the development and maintenance of HR programs and tools, including policies and procedures, SOPs, manuals, management guidelines, and other HR infrastructure to support business units, proposals, and projects.

· Ensure all offices and employees hired through EOR arrangements have access to an HR Help Desk or equivalent support structure with timely communication, responsiveness, and follow-up.

· In consultation with the VP HR and General Counsel, and in coordination with HRBPs, manage complex employee relations matters in a balanced, fair, and objective manner using appropriate counseling, investigative, intervention, and mediation techniques.

· Serve as an internal consultant and facilitator to managers and employees in resolving employment and performance-related issues in collaboration with HR business partners as appropriate.

· In collaboration with the Director of Talent Management and HR Country Teams, ensure timely delivery of training to managers on HR operations, policies, systems, and practices; and support clear communication of Vital HR business practices to employees globally.

· Foster a service-oriented HR culture that emphasizes responsiveness, partnership, trust, consistency, and practical problem-solving across all global offices.

Qualifications:

Education - 

· Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, Organizational Development, or a related field required.

· Professional HR certification such as SHRM-SCP, SPHR, CIPD, or equivalent international HR certification preferred.

Skills & Abilities - 

· Strong knowledge of global HR operations, employment practices, compliance requirements, and HR infrastructure across multiple countries and regions.

· Demonstrated ability to balance global organizational standards with local legal, cultural, and operational needs in diverse international environments.

· Strong relationship-building, influencing, and partnership skills, with the ability to establish trust and credibility across global offices and with leaders at all levels.

· High degree of diplomacy, cultural sensitivity, discretion, and sound judgment when managing complex and sensitive employee and organizational matters.

· Ability to proactively gather, assess, and synthesize information from multiple stakeholders and environments to identify operational or compliance risks and support informed decision-making.

· Strong project management and organizational skills, with the ability to manage multiple priorities and initiatives simultaneously in a fast-paced global environment.

· Excellent verbal, written communication, and active listening skills, including the ability to communicate complex HR concepts clearly and effectively to diverse audiences.

· Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with the ability to use people data and metrics to drive operational improvements and business decisions.

· Service-oriented leadership approach with a focus on collaboration, responsiveness, practical solutions, and continuous improvement.

· Strong facilitation, training, and coaching skills for managers, HR teams, and employees.

· High level of integrity and ability to manage confidential information with professionalism and discretion.

· Strong technology proficiency and ability to leverage HR systems and tools to improve operational effectiveness, reporting, workforce analytics, compliance, and employee experience.

· Fluency in English required.

· Knowledge of global HR operational best practices and employment lifecycle processes.

· Knowledge of compensation, benefits, employee relations, performance management, and policy administration practices.

· Understanding of change management principles and organizational effectiveness practices in global organizations.

Experience Required:

· Minimum of 15 years of progressive human resources experience, including significant experience in global HR operations, compliance, and employee services.

· Demonstrated experience supporting a complex, multi-country or global organization, preferably within the nonprofit, international development, public health, or mission-driven sector.

· Experience partnering with global offices and navigating varying labor laws, cultural norms, and operational practices across regions.

· Proven experience developing and implementing global HR policies, procedures, systems, and operational processes.

· Experience managing HR compliance, audits, employee documentation, and data governance in international environments.

· Experience overseeing compensation and benefits administration across multiple countries and/or employer-of-record (EOR) arrangements.

· Demonstrated experience managing complex employee relations matters and conducting or supporting investigations in collaboration with legal counsel and HR business partners.

· Experience leading or supporting HRIS optimization, system configuration, reporting, and data integrity initiatives; experience with UKG strongly preferred.

· Experience using HR metrics and workforce data to support operational planning and organizational decision-making.

Working Conditions and Physical Requirements:

· The position may involve up to 10% travel to various international locations, depending on organizational needs

· Ability/willingness to work across multiple time zones

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. 

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.

Who We Are Looking For
We are seeking an inspiring and strategic leader who is passionate about delivering lasting impact for people with disabilities and other marginalised communities. As our new Director of Programme Impact, you will shape the strategic direction and development of our programme portfolio, ensuring our partner-led work continues to grow in reach, quality, effectiveness, and impact.
You will bring strong programme leadership, people management expertise, and a commitment to partnership-based approaches that support locally led development. As a member of CBM UK’s Leadership Team (LT), you will contribute to the overall strategic direction of the organisation while leading and motivating a committed Programmes Team. You will play a key role in strengthening CBM UK’s contribution to the CBM Global federation, working closely with country teams, technical specialists, and partners to maximise our collective impact.
An experienced leader, you will provide strategic oversight across a diverse portfolio of programmes, partnerships, and funding opportunities. Overseeing an annual budget of around £4million, you will have a strong track record of delivering impactful programme strategies, building and developing high-performing teams, and fostering a culture of collaboration, accountability, inclusion, and continuous learning. This role offers an exciting opportunity for an established senior leader who is ready to take the next step into their first Director-level position, as well as those with existing director-level experience.
Forward-thinking and adaptable, you will be excited by the opportunities and challenges facing the international development sector. You will play an instrumental role in exploring the changing role of UK INGOs within the localisation agenda and will work closely with the CEO and Leadership Team to develop new approaches and business models that respond to an evolving global context. You will also bring experience of securing and growing institutional and strategic funding opportunities, alongside the ability to communicate complex ideas clearly and compellingly to a wide range of audiences.
Above all, you will share our commitment to inclusion, equity, and disability rights and be motivated by the opportunity to help create a world in which all people can enjoy their rights and fulfil their potential. You will be inspired by the chance to shape both organisational strategy and sector-wide conversations, ensuring that people with disabilities remain at the heart of international development and humanitarian action.

Key Responsibilities
Programmes Leadership & Management (70%)
1. Lead the strategic and financial development and oversight of CBM UK’s international programme portfolio, ensuring the organisation delivers its programme strategy with maximum impact and effectiveness in alignment with CBM Global’s strategy. Support and line manage the team to translate strategic priorities into actionable plans to ensure excellence in programme funding, development and delivery.
2. Drive quality and effectiveness within CBM UK projects and across CBM Global by
a) ensuring effective coordination of tasks, forward planning of key activities and events, and providing space for collaboration, problem-solving, escalation and innovation across the portfolio.
b) identifying and improving policies and procedures that ensure proportional programmatic oversight and support complex institutional funding management.
c) supporting Programmes staff to work with country teams to pursue a localised approach to programming, drawing on the CBM Global localisation roadmap.
3. Work with Programme Funding colleagues to lead and oversee the development of strategic partnerships and packaging of programme approaches that secure institutional funding for CBM UK’s programmes, including by strengthening intelligence on donor trends and funder priorities, developing immediate responses to new opportunities as they arise in line with CBM UK’s mission.
4. Work closely with CBM UK finance, fundraising, communication teams and other CBM Global Members in creating and responding to opportunities for funding, driving growth, and promoting effective use of CBM UK’s voluntary income to leverage match funding.
5. Together with the Board and LT, actively manage programme risks based on CBMUK’s overall risk management framework.
6. Demonstrate leadership in maintaining an environment free from harm for project participants, CBM UK and partner staff by overseeing the management of safeguarding concerns arising in CBM UK supported projects, including reporting to the Board and Charity Commission where appropriate.
7. Promote within the Programmes Department a culture of learning, reflection and continuous improvement which only results in an improved programmatic approach but also informs and supports our advocacy, advisory, and evidence and learning work.

8. Liaise closely with CBM UK colleagues to ensure coordination and effective integration of programme activities into opportunities for fundraising, including contributing to the innovation in business models to diversify CBM UK’s funding base, including exploring sustainable funding approaches to enhance programme delivery and reduce dependency on the charitable model (in conjunction with the CEO and Director of Fundraising, Impact and Communications).

Organisational leadership (20%)
1. Contribute to the overall leadership and strategic direction of CBM UK through the Leadership Team, and in collaboration with the CEO, including contributing to Board meetings.
2. As part of the Leadership Team, take shared leadership responsibility for the wider CBM UK team of staff and volunteers, supporting effective collaboration and organisational cohesion, and taking on cross-functional responsibilities where appropriate.
3. Encourage and promote a culture of ambition, learning and excellence across the CBM UK team.
4. Be responsible for producing and initiating regular reports, briefing papers and other relevant programmes information for the CEO and Board Programmes Committee as appropriate.
5. Lead on supporting the Board Programmes Committee, working closely with the Committee Chair to ensure members are provided with the information necessary to permit strategic oversight and robust risk management.
6. Lead UK’s engagement with CBM Global's programmatic leadership, in particular Directors of Programmes in other CBM Member Teams (Australia, Ireland, New Zealand, Switzerland), CBM Global Secretariat, and Technical Directors, working towards greater alignment, escalation of issues, and collaboration to advance CBM UK’s approach to localisation.

Representation and advocacy (10%)
1. Represent the organisation at the highest levels, including deputising for the CEO where required. Act as a key spokesperson for CBM UK with a range of external audiences, including institutional and statutory donors and strategic partners, media, policy and decision makers and other international and national non-government organisations. Develop and maintain strong relationships with key geographic stakeholders, including diplomatic representatives, ensuring effective engagement and alignment with CBM UK’s programme priorities.
2. In alignment with Advocacy and with Advisory colleagues, contribute to best practice in the UK disability and development sector by forging good relationships with UK-based and international NGO and disability sector networks to advocate for the adoption of inclusive development policies and practices, and champion innovative inclusive programmatic approaches.

For full details please download the Recruitment Pack.

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.

Job Title: Director of Examinations 

Reports to: Chief Executive

Line reports: Examinations Manager (x2) 

The Royal College of Ophthalmologists (RCOphth) is a membership organisation and the voice of the profession, with over 4,750 members in the UK and overseas. Our role is to champion the specialty, set standards of training and practice, and influence change to make a difference to the lives of patients with eye conditions.

Job Purpose 

The Director of Examinations plays an important role within the College, providing strategic leadership, oversight and delivery of our exam function in the UK and overseas, at the same time as ensuring alignment with best practice and GMC standards.

This role has responsibility for a budget of £2M+ and for the delivery of exams to around 3,000 candidates each year. The postholder is also responsible for leading a team of six members of staff and forms a key part of our Senior Leadership Team, taking corporate responsibility for the overall direction and operational management of the College.

Main responsibilities 

1. To oversee the strategic direction and delivery of exams 

• Provide strategic leadership for the College's examination function, ensuring all examinations are designed, delivered and continuously improved in accordance with the College's strategic objectives, regulatory requirements, obligations and recognised best practice 

• Develop and implement the long-term exams strategy, anticipating future developments in medical education, assessment, AI technology and regulation to identify opportunities, manage risks and ensure the continued relevance and sustainability of the College's examinations 

• Ensure the College's examinations meet the standards required by the General Medical Council (GMC) and other relevant regulatory bodies, maintaining robust governance, quality assurance and standard-setting processes that demonstrate examinations are valid, reliable and fit for purpose 

• Lead the strategic planning, financial management and performance of the examinations function, ensuring delivery within agreed budgets while maintaining high-quality services and identifying opportunities for innovation and operational efficiency 

• Champion an outstanding candidate and stakeholder experience by ensuring examinations are delivered to consistently high standards of customer service, accessibility, fairness and professionalism, with particular regard to equity, diversity and inclusion, confidentiality and information security 

• Provide executive leadership for the development, implementation and continuous improvement of policies, assessment methodologies and quality assurance frameworks, ensuring alignment with developments in medical assessment and educational best practice. 

• Oversee governance arrangements for examination appeals, reasonable adjustments, examination security and risk management, ensuring robust, transparent and legally compliant decision-making processes 

• Ensure comprehensive monitoring and analysis of examination performance, assessment outcomes and equality data, using evidence and statistical analysis to inform continuous improvement, maintain standards and provide assurance to the College's governance structures and external regulators 

• Drive the development and implementation of digital solutions, leading business change to improve resilience, efficiency, data quality and the candidate experience 

• Lead the strategic development and expansion of the College's international examination portfolio, identifying opportunities for growth while ensuring consistent quality, governance and candidate experience across the UK and overseas in a financially sustainable way 

• Ensure appropriate governance, oversight and maintenance of systems, policies, guidance and digital resources, including candidate communications and public-facing information 

• Foster a culture of continuous improvement, innovation and evidence-based practice across the examinations function, ensuring emerging risks, operational issues and opportunities are identified and addressed proactively. 

2. To foster close and constructive relationships with key stakeholders 

• Develop and maintain strategic relationships with examiners, psychometricians, clinical leaders, regulators and international delivery partners, fostering collaboration to ensure the consistent delivery, quality and integrity of the College's examinations across the UK and internationally 

• Provide strategic oversight of the recruitment, development and performance of the College's volunteer examiner workforce, ensuring examiners are appropriately trained, supported and calibrated to deliver assessments in accordance with regulatory requirements and recognised best practice 

• Serve as the executive lead for the College's Examinations Committee and its subcommittee structure, providing strategic advice, governance support and assurance to enable effective oversight of the examination function and its ongoing development 

• Lead the College's relationship with the GMC, acting as the principal point of engagement on examination matters. Ensure timely and robust regulatory reporting, represent the College in formal discussions, and provide assurance that examinations continue to meet all applicable regulatory standards 

• Build and maintain productive relationships with key UK stakeholders, including the Postgraduate Dean for Ophthalmology, the Academy of Medical Royal Colleges (AoMRC), NHS partners and other professional bodies, influencing developments in postgraduate medical assessment and promoting collaboration across the sector 

• Lead the College's engagement with international partners, including examination delivery organisations, host institutions and the College of Ophthalmology of Eastern, Central and Southern Africa (COESCA), supporting the strategic growth, quality assurance and sustainable development of the College's international examination portfolio 

• Represent the College externally on matters relating to examinations and assessment, acting as a trusted advisor to senior clinical leaders, regulators and partner organisations, and enhancing the College's reputation as a leader in postgraduate medical assessment. 

3. To lead the directorate 

• Provide executive leadership of the team, creating a high-performing, collaborative and customer-focused culture that enables colleagues to deliver excellent outcomes 

• Lead, develop and empower the team through effective coaching, succession planning and identification of professional development opportunities, building capacity and resilience

• Establish clear individual and team objectives aligned to the College's strategic priorities, monitoring performance, fostering accountability and supporting the successful delivery of agreed outcomes

• Promote effective communication and collaboration across the team, ensuring colleagues are informed, motivated and connected to the College's strategic direction, while championing the team's achievements across the organisation 

• Ensure robust financial stewardship, including strategic financial planning, budget management and long-term forecasting, contributing to the College's sustainability and value for money 

• Provide strategic advice, analysis and assurance to the Board of Trustees and Finance Committee, reporting on performance, risks, financial position and progress against objectives 

• Establish effective governance and programme management arrangements to deliver strategic initiatives, foster cross-College collaboration and drive continuous improvement. 

4. To contribute as a member of the Senior Leadership Team (SLT) 

• Play a full and active role as a member of the SLT, contributing to the development and delivery of the College's strategy and organisational priorities 

• Provide visible organisational leadership, promoting collaboration across teams and embedding a one-College approach that delivers consistently high standards of service and performance 

• Contribute to the development, implementation and review of College-wide policies, governance arrangements and organisational processes, ensuring effective and consistent application across the organisation 

• Share collective corporate responsibility for decisions taken by the SLT and Board of Trustees, supporting their successful implementation and promoting a culture of accountability and continuous improvement 

• Lead and contribute to cross-organisational change programmes and strategic projects, ensuring effective engagement with colleagues and stakeholders to deliver sustainable improvement 

• Champion and role model the College's values, behaviours and leadership expectations, fostering an inclusive, respectful and high-performing organisational culture. 

5. To undertake other duties as required:  

• Undertake any other reasonable duties as required by the Chief Executive

• Extensive travel in the UK and overseas is required, alongside working outside normal hours from time to time during exam sittings. 

Person Specification 

Knowledge, Qualifications and Experience 

• Degree or equivalent professional qualification 

• Significant senior leadership experience in examinations, education, assessment or a professional membership organisation 

• Experience of leading high-stakes assessment or examination services, including quality assurance and regulatory compliance 

• Experience of strategic planning, budget management and organisational performance 

• Experience of leading, developing and motivating high-performing teams 

• Experience of working with Boards, committees, regulators and senior stakeholders 

• Experience of leading organisational or digital change programmes 

Skills and Abilities 

• Strategic leadership with strong planning, analytical and decision-making skills 

• Excellent communication, influencing and relationship management skills 

• Financial and commercial awareness with the ability to manage resources effectively 

• Ability to lead change, manage risk and deliver continuous improvement 

• Strong organisational skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities and deliver results 

Personal Qualities (Attributes) 

• Collaborative, inclusive and values-driven leader who demonstrates integrity, professionalism and sound judgement 

• Resilient, adaptable and committed to innovation, continuous improvement and customer excellence 

• Commitment to equity, diversity and inclusion and to continuing professional development 

Other requirements

Willingness to travel within the UK and internationally and work occasional evenings or weekends during examination periods

Job Summary 
 
To manage and ensure control of the funding, financial and corporate resources of the Charity to ensure a financially secure service, delivering value for money. 

Work with the Co-Directors to advise and develop the financial strategy, model new projects, prepare annual and project budgets, and report on financial performance, contributing to the overall future strategic direction of the Charity.

Manage the day-to-day finances for the Charity. Ensure all aspects of the financial systems are accurate and up to date, including banking, sales and purchase ledgers, payroll and cash management.

The postholder is expected to foster excellent working relationships with all staff, volunteers, senior colleagues and trustees. 

The postholder will be expected to attend the following meeting groups: 

• Monthly All Staff: regular attendance 

• GDPR/Data Working Group 

• Finance and Income Generation (FING) Committee Meetings 

• Responsibilities to and attendance at all other meetings: attendance only as and when required and/or at the direction of the Co-Directors 

Key Responsibilities 

• Supervision and management of Senior Finance & Admin Officer (SFAO) 

• Day to Day Financial Management 

• Provision of accurate reports to Board and senior managers 

• Payroll, Pensions, and Tax Management overview and control 

• Budget Process Management 

• Statutory Reporting & Charity compliance 

• Account Management – Key Suppliers/Contractors 

• Financial Risk Management 

• Governance support to FING Committee and Trustees 

Core External Relationships 

• Payroll Provider 

• TPT Pensions 

• HMRC 

• All Banks 

• Charity Commission 

• Companies House 

• Charity Auditors 

• IT Contractor & Insurers 

Day to Day Financial Management 

• Regularly review and maintain financial policies and procedures. 

• Review the monthly reconciliations carried out by the SFAO thereby ensuring all transactions are properly and efficiently recorded. 

• Oversee the management and appropriate allocation of Restricted Funds, ensuring the monies are allocated according to the donor’s wishes and ensure that records are always maintained 

• Regularly review and make recommendations for improvements to financial controls and ensuring methods are documented and made clear to staff.

• Support with funding bids and reports back to donors 

• Management of all charity bank accounts, acting as authorised signatory with Banks 

Payroll, Pensions and Tax Management 

• Supervise the payroll process carried out by SFAO 

• Responsible for the effective management Charity’s Pension Scheme

• Ensure payments to HMRC are made accurately and on time, and ensure all available allowances are claimed. 

Budget Process Management 

• Take the lead on preparing the Annual Budget, working closely with SLT to capture all spending plans Develop and run a process which is thorough, consistent and inclusive of all managers. 

• Alongside the Co-Director, present the Draft Budget to Board for approval 

• Present monthly management accounts and Cost Centre reports for all managers

• Work closely with all SLT to ensure they fully understand their budgets and ongoing organisational performance against budget 

• Monitor variations against spend and integrate within an overall Cashflow analysis 

• Recommend corrective actions to Co- Directors and/or Board as necessary 

Statutory Reporting & Charity compliance 

• Act as lead member of staff with the Charity’s Auditors 

• Oversee the preparation of the Annual Accounts plus any supporting papers required to enable an efficient and effective annual audit to take place 

• Maintain fixed asset register and inventory of all equipment contracts/agreements 

• Ensure the Charity is fully compliant with statutory bodies and key external institutions, and act as lead on behalf of the charity with the following bodies: 

• Charity Commission 

• Companies House 

• Pensions Regulator 

• HMRC 

• Valuation Office 

• All Banks 
   

Account Management – Key Suppliers/Contractors 

Insurance 

• Take the lead in managing the insurance renewals process, and ensure that a comprehensive suite of insurances is in place to cover key risks across the Charity 
   

Financial Risk Management 

• Ensure appropriate financial risk management techniques and controls are in place at strategic and operational levels. 

• Develop, update and produce long term cashflow forecasts to evidence that the Charity can operate as a going concern. 

• Provide up-to-date dashboards and reports of the financial position, projections and scenarios, considering the financial implications of alternative business models, advice on new and current business income generation initiatives and analysis of financial risk and performance. 

• Work with the Co-Directors, to ensure that the appropriate processes are in place for the long-term financial viability of the charity, advising on the financial consequences of proposed actions 
   

Governance support to FING Committee and Trustees 

• Assist the Chair of FING Committee (Treasurer) 

• Prepare all associated papers and minutes 

• Prepare finance papers for Treasurer to deliver to Board of Trustees 

• Attend Board of Trustees meetings and present information as requested 
   

General 

• Postholder to adhere to their relevant Code of Ethics as laid down by their professional body, being mindful that adherence to the code takes precedence over charity policy and practice should a conflict ever arise. [NB Sections A + C of the current professional code are applicable.]

• Keep abreast of financial developments across the charity sector and ensure any opportunities for tax reliefs, cost reduction, value for money and more effective systems are seized as appropriate.

• Undertake any other duties as determined by the Co-Directors. 

 
Personal Specification 

• Personally committed to Caring in Bristol’s vision and values and collaboration-focused method of work. 

• Committed to reflection and learning, including sharing failures and uncertainties; openly taking feedback from the team and members of the community on your behaviour and work. 

• Bring ideas for improvements and is open and honest in all communications where relevant and appropriate. 

• Awareness of your own needs: the homelessness sector can be challenging – you will be good at knowing your limits under pressure and will be confident to ask for help when you need it. You will receive support from your team, and we are keen to nurture an environment where no-one feels worried about asking for help or support when they need it. 

• Resilience working under pressure, ability, and willingness to both give and take constructive feedback. 

• Willingness to work the extra hours where needed, with a flexible working policy. 

• Growing levels of self-awareness, including an understanding of how your background has shaped the opportunities afforded to you and how you relate to people from different backgrounds to you. 

• Willing to develop emotional intelligence, including a growing ability to empathise with and appreciate others, creating opportunities for those you work with to grow. 

• A passion for social justice and to change Bristol for the better. 

Essential 

• Minimum part qualified accountant or qualified by experience with strong financial management experience, with an ability to understand the practical impact of finance decisions and processes across the whole charity. 

• Specialist knowledge of Charities required, including Charity SORP guidance and procedures, underpinned by strong theoretical knowledge and practical experience. 

• Ability to work with the Co-directors to lead the formulation of long-term financial plans and strategies which will influence the long-term direction of the charity. 

• Experience in developing major finance policy development. 

• Experience in budgeting and financial planning.

• Experience in management accounting. 

• Ability to receive, process and provide highly complex or sensitive financial information including ability to analyse and clearly communicate financial information.

• Strong IT skills including the Microsoft Office suite, in particular Excel, and experience of using databases. 

• Solid organisational skills including consistency, accuracy, and an eye for detail. 

• Experience of line management and supporting and developing staff. 

• Knowledge and understanding of Equity, Diversity & Inclusion practices. 

Desirable  

• Experience in using QuickBooks accounting software is desirable or transferrable knowledge of similar online accounting packages.