Director of operations jobs

The INSPIRE Foundation, a charity whose objective is to promote research into the development of practical systems for people with damage to the spinal cord by the use of the latest advances in electronic, mechanical, and medical technology.

JOB PURPOSE

The Director is involved in every aspect of the running of INSPIRE, which includes raising funding from a variety of sources, formulating a winning strategy to grow INSPIRE, husbanding resources in the most effective and efficient manner and leading a small staff in their support roles.

SCOPE OF THE JOB

As Director, you will have a large amount of freedom to drive change, grow the charity, set the strategic vision going forwards and use your talents and leadership to ensure INSPIRE thrives. You are to ensure the charity has sufficient funds to cover all routine day-to-day expenses, to pay invoices quarterly for current projects and to plan for taking on medical research projects which are vetted by the National Science Committee (NSC) and agreed by the Board of Trustees. You will be actively supported by a Board of Trustees, to whom you report in your role as Director.

You should be qualified to degree level, ideally with an MBA or an equivalent business qualification. Some knowledge of spinal cord injury and its effects on an individual or of disability more broadly would be advantageous, as well as having a proven fundraising background from working in the 3rd Sector. The ideal candidate will have the following skills:

• Financial management or accountancy knowledge

• A high level of written and verbal communication skills

• Excellent inter-personal skills and the ability to interact with people from all backgrounds

• Standard keyboard skills including the ability to summarise meetings succinctly and clearly

INSPIRE is based in offices at Salisbury Hospital, Wiltshire and you will have a small, dynamic team to help and advise you as you settle into the role.

Are you excited by the prospect of working for a dynamic and evolving organisation that supports St George's University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust to build excellence in care, advance research and innovation and enrich the health-care experience?

Do you have experience in managing a Finance Function, training and mentoring staff to fulfil their potential, a proven track record of relaying financial information to non-financial stakeholders and a sound working knowledge of accounting systems? 

If so this may be the role for you!

The Finance Manager is a key member of the wider Finance and Operations team and will lead the finance function of the charity and provide excellent finance support for the Senior Executive.

We are looking for an individual who can:

• Maintain a robust financial control framework and provide high quality timely financial management information to ensure effective decision making.
• Prepare annual financial statements and support an efficient external audit process.
• Lead on the annual budget setting and quarterly forecasting processes.
• Deliver continuous finance process improvement and finance training for SGHC staff.
• Support the maintenance of dynamic and strategically aligned partnerships with finance colleagues across all our key stakeholder groups.

SGHC provides a generous benefits package including defined contribution pension scheme, life insurance, flexible working, enhanced maternity package, extended leave, development and well-being days. season ticket loan and an employee assistance programme.

ROLE PURPOSE

To manage the finance function of the charity and provide excellent finance support for the Senior Executive which will include:

• Maintaining a robust financial control framework and providing high quality timely financial management information to ensure effective decision making.
• Preparing annual financial statements and supporting an efficient external audit process.
• Supporting the annual budget setting and quarterly forecasting processes.
• Leading on continuous finance process improvement and finance training for SGHC staff.

MAIN DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES

1. Staff management

1.1. Carry out all line management duties in line with organisational policy and procedure, including:

• Diversity and inclusion - encouraging an inclusive environment.
• Recruiting and inducting good quality staff o Proactively addressing performance, conduct or other employee relations issues.
• Support and coach your direct report to ensure objectives and development goals are achieved.

2. Management of Income and Payments Processing Operations

2.1. Responsible for ensuring that all fundraising and investment income is accurately recorded in the finance system.

2.2. Ensure the reconciliation of all income data from the bank against Raiser’s Edge (CRM system) to ensure data is accurate and complete and then recorded in the finance system once reconciled.

2.3. Manage an efficient and effective Accounts Payable function, ensuring that the work performed by the Senior Finance Assistant is at the required standard.

2.4. Lead on all communications with internal stakeholders, including Trust finance and Special Purpose Fund Advisers, to resolve any issues arising and produce monitoring reports on a regular basis.

3. Transactional accounting and fund management

3.1. Ensure systems are in place to identify and correctly record restricted donations, so that these are properly monitored and utilised.

4. Financial Control Framework

4.1. In consultation with the Director of Finance & Operations, ensure that appropriate controls, processes and procedures are in place, regularly reviewed and assessed for operational effectiveness.

4.2. Review and update Finance Procedures and effectively communicate these to staff, arranging training where necessary, within the Finance Department and across the Charity.

4.3. Ensure effective maintenance of the balance sheet, including regular key control account reconciliations (bank and other).

4.4. Monitoring of balances with the Trust, ensuring these are promptly settled, with discrepancies investigated and resolved.

5. Management Reporting

5.1. Delivery of timely and accurate monthly management accounts for the Charity, including enhancing the production process and communication of timetables.

5.2. Co-ordinate the production of narrative reports to support review by the Director of Finance & Operations.

6. Financial reporting and audit

6.1. Lead the Finance team in the production of financial statements which are fully compliant with the Charity SORP to meet required audit and Board approval deadlines.

6.2. Lead the relationship with external auditors and all arrangements surrounding the annual audit fieldwork.

6.3. Preparing required audit documentation in accordance with agreed timetables. 

7. Budgeting and Forecasting

7.1. Assist the Director of Finance & Operations in the production of annual budgets, working closely with budget holders within the Charity to ensure completed in accordance with agreed timescales.

7.2. Lead on the quarterly re-forecast process, producing relevant analyses to understand and monitor key changes.

8. Banking and Investments

8.1. Work alongside the Director of Finance & Operations to maintain a strong relationship with the Charity’s banking and investment managers and take the lead on the day to day administration of the banking arrangements.

8.2. Ensure that bank mandates are up to date.

9. Systems and Data

9.1. Finance system

• Liaise with Application’s Supplier and Trust Systems support team in the maintenance and development of the finance system, ensuring essential maintenance are carried out as necessary to prevent cyber fraud and maintain data integrity.
• Provide support to the Finance team for the accounting functionality within the finance accounting application and its integrated systems.

9.2. System maintenance and training

• Support the Director of Finance and Operations with managing user access, permissions and privileges on the finance system, ensuring that any changes to staff are reflected immediately.
• Ensure all new staff are trained on the Finance System and that current staff receive updates as necessary.

Any other duties commensurate with the post as requested by the Director of Finance & Operations.

About the Role

As Director of Finance, you’ll:

• Lead all aspects of financial strategy, reporting, and governance
• Oversee day-to-day financial operations and team leadership
• Provide critical insight and assurance to the Chief Executive and Trustees
• Responsible for executive on-call duties as part of a scheduled rota, handling urgent issues outside regular business hours.
• Support the financial management of fundraising income and grant funding
• Manage the Facilities function to ensure safe, compliant, and well-maintained premises
• Drive continuous improvement, sustainability, and operational effectiveness
• Support the IT and Data protection operations 

You’ll be instrumental in helping us deliver our strategic vision with financial clarity, stability, and confidence.

Tasks and Responsibilities

You will support the Director of Operations and the wider staff team by:

• Handling day-to-day administrative tasks such as scheduling meetings, booking travel and venues, ordering supplies, and keeping systems and records up to date.
• Providing operational support across the organisation – for example, setting up Zooms, responding to enquiries, keeping our staff directory current, or helping with room bookings and access.
• Assisting with HR administration such as onboarding new starters, booking training, keeping HR records, and supporting recruitment processes.
• Helping with database and records management, including updating spreadsheets or CRM systems (e.g. Salesforce) and pulling off simple reports.
• Supporting internal communications, such as keeping our policies and procedures well-organised, sharing reminders or updates, and circulating documents.
• Taking minutes at meetings when needed – including Board of Trustees meetings – and making sure decisions and action points are clearly recorded and followed up.
• Supporting governance and trustee engagement, such as helping to organise away days, induction processes or learning sessions for trustees.
• Working closely with the Director of Operations on other operational tasks that may arise, which could include areas like office management, HR, IT or governance – helping to make sure these run smoothly and efficiently.
• Working collaboratively as part of a small team and wider organisation with a willingness to undertake other tasks commensurate with the Operations Assistant role as agreed with your line manager.

Person Specification

We’re looking for someone who is:

• Highly organised, with good attention to detail and the ability to juggle multiple tasks.
• A clear communicator, both in writing and in person.
• Confident using standard digital tools – including Microsoft Office, Outlook, Zoom and spreadsheets – and quick to pick up new systems.
• Positive and helpful – happy to pitch in wherever needed and comfortable working with people at all levels.
• Reliable and discreet – able to handle sensitive information with care andprofessionalism.
• Interested in learning and developing your skills in charity operations and administration

SKILLS AND ABILITIES

• Excellent attention to detail and high levels of accuracy.
• Excellent interpersonal skills, can collaborate with colleagues and communicate well with external stakeholders/ donors.
• Excellent organisation skills including managing external deadlines, prioritising while having a busy workload and responding in a timely manner requests from colleagues.
• Ability to work effectively and engage with a variety of colleagues across the organisation.
• A positive can-do attitude.

VALUES AND PERSONAL QUALITIES

• Commitment to the AFT’s mission, empowering young people to stand up to all forms of prejudice.
• A deeply held belief in equality and diversity with a willingness to learn.
• Willingness to travel regionally and across the UK, and work evenings and weekends when required.

We are looking for someone who:

• Understands the power of sport to unite and uplift communities.
• Brings senior leadership experience in the required competencies of fundraising, communications and income strategy.
• Is confident managing relationships with high-value funders and partners.
• Has a deep understanding of inclusive storytelling and impact measurement.
• Can think big, act boldly, and build a strong and sustainable future for our movement.

We continue to be focused on our vision to create an inclusive world for all, driven by the power of sport, through which people with intellectual disabilities live active, healthy and fulfilling lives. 

We are looking for people who are passionate about Special Olympics and are completely aligned with our values. We are authentic. We act with honesty, integrity and respect. We are creative and innovative. We love to embrace difference and doing things differently. We are brave, courageous, resilient and determined. We listen and are led by the voice of our athletes. We are always kind. We are Inclusion in Action.

We are continuing to build a high-performing team who care for each other and care about our cause. Our athletes are incredibly inspirational, courageous and insightful people, and they deserve a team who are equally committed and passionate about our mission.

ASNEW (Advocacy Services North East Wales) is looking for a visionary Service Director to lead our well-established charity into its next chapter of growth and impact.

Every day, our team of twenty-three passionate staff, champion the voices of people across Wrexham and Flintshire. We provide independent, rights-based advocacy to ensure people are heard, their rights upheld, and their choices respected.

As Service Director, you will play a pivotal role in shaping the future of advocacy in our region.

Working closely with our dedicated Board of Trustees, you will:

· Drive our strategic vision, ensuring high-quality, person-centred services.

· Inspire and lead an experienced, values-driven team.

· Strengthen partnerships and secure sustainable funding.

· Represent ASNEW at local, regional, and national levels as a credible and enthusiastic ambassador.

What We are Looking For

We are seeking a compassionate and dynamic leader who brings:

· Senior leadership experience in a relevant setting (charity, advocacy, social care, or health)

· A commitment to rights-based, person-led approaches

· Confidence in managing operations, people, and budgets.

· A collaborative, inclusive leadership style

· Passion for social justice and a belief in the power of advocacy

What We Offer

· A rewarding leadership role where your work will change lives.

· A supportive, reflective culture that prioritises wellbeing.

· Flexible and hybrid working options.

· Opportunities for professional growth and development

· The chance to make a lasting impact in a values-led organisation.

Venn Group is delighted to be supporting an established and award-winning human rights charity in recruiting an Interim Director of Finance & Operations to provide leadership during an exciting period of transformation.

You will join a collaborative and passionate Senior Management Team, leading the Finance, IT, and Estates functions, and contributing at Board level to strategic decision-making. This is a hands-on, high-impact leadership position offering the opportunity to work alongside sector-leading trustees and senior executives.

Key responsibilities of the role:

• Provide clear, actionable financial advice to the Senior Management Team and Board to support long-term strategic decision-making
• Conduct detailed income and expenditure analysis, identifying trends, risks, and opportunities
• Review and provide guidance on modernising financial systems and processes across the organisation, including driving IT and digital transformation to improve efficiency and reporting
• Offer day-to-day management, mentoring, and support to the Finance, IT, and Estates teams, ensuring smooth operations and clear priorities
• Stabilise the charity’s estates, including overseeing negotiations and planning around decommissioned premises, developing operational plans for regional teams, and securing tenants to co-share premises
• Ensure statutory reporting, compliance, and governance requirements are met
• Act as a trusted advisor to trustees and senior executives on financial, operational, and strategic matters

Ideal candidate profile:

• Qualified Accountant
• Proven track record as a senior finance leader within the charity sector
• Executive-level experience in delivering digital transformation and improving operational efficiency
• Strong leadership skills with the ability to inspire and engage teams
• Exceptional stakeholder management and Board-level communication skills

Agency reference number: J90363

Location: London

Duration: 3- 6 month interim assignment

Pay rate: £400 - £425 per day

Working hours: Full-time

Working pattern: Hybrid

Start date: August

This vacancy will be actively shortlisted so early applications are encouraged to avoid missing out.

Venn Group is an equal opportunities employment business and employment agency and welcomes applications from all candidates.

Harris Hill is delighted to be working with The Borrow Foundation to recruit its new Director of Finance and Operations (DFO).

The DFO will be the principal employee of the charity and will:
• Work closely with the Board, providing essential support to the trustees in the furtherance of the charity’s objects whilst fulfilling its legal, governance and financial obligations.
• Develop, strengthen and lead a small team that is responsible for the day-to-day operations of the charity and its subsidiary company, and oversee the implementation of the policies, strategies, and decisions of the Board
• Build strong and effective relationships with the charity’s stakeholders, internal and external

The Borrow Foundation’s mission is to promote the improvement of oral health primarily in children through the prevention of oral diseases. The charity’s focus is on population oral health and the need to reduce inequalities within and between countries.

It provides grants to leading health agencies, government bodies, academic institutes, dental associations, and charities. These are being applied in many parts of the world to help improve oral health, primarily in children, through the prevention of oral diseases.

Job title                          Director of Finance and Operations
Hours                             3 – 5 days per week (negotiable)
Salary                             £85,000 - £95,000 p.a. FTE
Employment term         Permanent
Location                        Waterlooville, Hampshire with hybrid working options
Benefits                        25 days annual leave plus bank holidays; 7% employer pension contributions; private health insurance

How to apply:
Please review the recruitment pack for further information about The Borrow Foundation, the DFO position and for details on how to apply

Closing date for applications: 9am, Friday 12th September

Both The Borrow Foundation and Harris Hill operate an equal opportunity policy and commit to treating all of our candidates and jobseekers fairly. We welcome and encourage applications from everyone regardless of age, disability, sex, gender reassignment, sexual orientation, pregnancy and maternity, race, religion or belief and marriage and civil partnerships.

Location: South Kensington, London (with hybrid working)
Salary: c. £85,000K + generous benefits package
Closing date: 14th September
Contact: Rosemary Pini - Allen Lane

The V&A is seeking a strategic, collaborative, and inspiring Deputy Finance Director to play a pivotal role in safeguarding the museum’s financial resilience and supporting its mission to champion creativity in all its forms.

As part of the V&A family of museums, the role offers the chance to contribute to an organisation with a global reputation, a national collection of over 2.8 million objects, and a 5,000-year-old story of creativity told through exhibitions, education programmes, research, and digital experiences.

About the Role

Reporting to the Director of Finance and Resources, the Deputy Finance Director will work at the heart of the V&A’s strategic and operational decision-making. The postholder will provide leadership to the Finance and Procurement teams, ensuring the delivery of high-quality financial management, business partnering, statutory reporting, and compliance across a complex, multi-site organisation.

Key priorities will include:

• Developing and delivering a multi-year strategic financial model to strengthen resilience and support commercial growth.
•  Leading the annual business planning cycle and aligning financial plans to strategic objectives.
• Enhancing financial systems, reporting, and processes to improve decision-making and efficiency.
• Championing strong financial controls, risk management, and compliance across the organisation.
• Overseeing statutory accounts, external reporting, and technical advice on VAT, Gift Aid, and other tax matters.
• Acting as a trusted adviser to senior leaders, the Board, and external stakeholders.

About You

The V&A is looking for a qualified CCAB accountant (or equivalent) with experience leading finance teams in large, complex organisations. You will have:

• A strong track record in statutory accounts, budgeting, and forecasting
• Technical expertise in accounting and charity taxation
• The ability to present complex financial information clearly to varied audiences
• A collaborative leadership style with a commitment to developing high-performing teams
• Alignment with the V&A’s values: Sustainability, Equity, Creativity, Collaboration, and Generosity

Why Join the V&A?

The V&A offers an inclusive, values-driven environment where staff are supported to thrive. The museum is proud to be an open and diverse organisation and is committed to a strict zero-tolerance approach to discrimination, harassment, or bullying.

Benefits include:

• 29 days’ holiday plus public holidays
• 10% employer pension contribution (post-probation)
• Life assurance (4x salary)
• Enhanced family-friendly policies
• Interest-free loans (travelcard, bike, rental deposit)
• Free entry to major museums and exhibitions
• Discounts in V&A shops and cafés
• Employee Assistance Programme and staff social events

How to Apply

For further information or to apply, please contact: Rosemary Pini at  Allen Lane who has partnered with V&A on this appointment or apply below. 

The Trust is seeking a Fundraising Director to run the day-to-day operations of our small and successful charity, alongside our existing Director of Operations, starting 1 September 2025, or as soon as possible thereafter.

The annual salary is £33,000 and hours of work are 35 hours a week. The successful candidate must be able to work from home but be willing to travel to central London for regular meetings and occasional events. We are open to part-time or flexible working options.

22 days annual leave increasing one day per year up to 30 days, plus bank holidays.

Pension contribution: employer 3% and staff 5% at the People’s Pension.

Reports to: Chair of the Board of Trustees

Liaises with: Co-Director, project members, bursary holders, project facilitators, trustees, supporters & patrons

About

The National Youth Arts Trust (NYAT) is a small performing arts charity that exists to widen access to the performing arts for young people from disadvantaged backgrounds - through giving bursaries for music, dance, and drama lessons, running youth theatre projects, and taking children to the theatre, often for the first time.

We are looking for an enthusiastic and organised individual, who is a confident fundraiser to help scale up our work nationwide, support in the day-to-day management of the Trust, and assist in fulfilling the trustee’s strategic plans for 2025 and beyond. It is an essential role for this charity and offers a unique opportunity to be involved and have influence on a growing arts organisation with a strong board, a fantastic patron list and national ambitions.

The ideal candidate is an excellent communicator, who would like to build on their fundraising and management experience in the third sector and arts industry and is passionate about equal opportunity in the performing arts.

We are looking for a creative thinker, who takes initiative, is self-motivated and is looking for a varied role within a small but ambitious charity.

Purpose of the Job

· Supporting the day-to-day management of the Trust, with a particular focus on fundraising and event organisation for current and future projects.

· Working with the Board of Trustees to ensure the National Youth Arts Trust achieves its vision and charitable objectives, creating and implementing the strategy for NYAT and ensuring operating policies and procedures are fit for purpose and regularly reviewed.

Principal Tasks

Principal Tasks:
Lead fundraising strategy, write funding bids, and build donor relationships. Manage communications, stakeholder care, and project delivery. Support recruitment, planning, and marketing. Maintain donor databases and ensure strong supporter engagement. Drive new creative initiatives, track budgets and impact, and report regularly to the Board.

This job description is not exhaustive, please refer to the JD and the post holder may be required to undertake other such duties from time to time.

The role will require the successful candidate to complete an enhanced Disclosure & Barring Service check.

Please contact us if you need the job description in an alternative format or if you need any adjustments if invited to interview.

NYAT is an equal opportunities employer. We guarantee an interview for applicants with a disability providing they meet the minimum requirements for the post. Charity No: 1152367.

· Closing date for applications is 21st August 2025.

· Interviews will be held online and arranged with shortlisted candidates directly, on Mondays, Tuesdays or Wednesdays, with possible in person second interviews.

· Start date 1st September 2025 or as soon as possible thereafter.

Job Title: Operations Manager 

Duration: Permanent 

Hours: Full time

35 hours per week Monday – Friday 

Salary Scale:£36,839 – £42,781  
Appointments are made at the start of the salary scale, with annual pay progression through the scale based on satisfactory performance. The pay scale is reviewed annually in the light of cost of living and operational budgets.  

Pension:                   6% employer pension contribution

Holiday:                   26 days plus bank holidays

Reports to:            Deputy Director 

Line Manages:         Operations Supervisors, Gallery Technician, Front of House staff and Cleaners 

The appointment is subject to a satisfactory DBS check 

The Operations Manager is a key role within the team, ensuring the effective and efficient management of the SLG’s three sites: the Main Gallery, the Fire Station and Art Block. This includes managing the maintenance and upkeep of the SLG’s Grade II listed buildings and artist-designed gardens, as well as leading the Front of House team to ensure that the SLG provides a welcoming and inclusive environment for all visitors and a high quality of visitor experience. 

The Operations Manager works closely with the Deputy Director and manages a team comprising two Operations Supervisors, the Gallery Technician and contracted and casual Front of House staff and Cleaners. The role takes the lead on the implementation and monitoring of the SLG’s environment and sustainability policy and contributes to organisation-wide work towards the SLG’s equity, diversity and inclusion objectives. 

The post holder will be required to be an appointed first aider and a fire marshal, as well as a primary keyholder. They may, therefore, be called upon for out of hours emergencies. Appropriate training will be given. 

In our endeavour to diversify our workforce and create a more inclusive environment, we particularly encourage and welcome applications from people from backgrounds which are underrepresented in museums and galleries, including people from low-income backgrounds, people from Black, Asian and ethnically diverse backgrounds and disabled people. 

In the UK, in areas of disadvantage, up to 40% of children do not reach a good level of development by the age of 5. Our client’s vision is of a society that cherishes children’s development in the early years, where every child can thrive and achieve their full potential.

Using a collective impact approach, the organisation is driving and supporting collaboration between funders, the public, private and the voluntary sector to improve outcomes in the early years. Listening to the voice, and harnessing the power of parents, carers and families in local communities is central to the change that Thrive and Five seeks to make.

In just four years, our client’s work is making a difference, with positive progress of children who’ve had the benefit of the charity’s pilot programme.  The impact of our work was recognised in Parliament as the Secretary for State delivered the Best Start in Life Strategy and the charity was  invited to share our public/voluntary sector partnership model at the Government’ Summit to launch the Civil Society Covenant. The Department for Education is interested to see how our approach aligns with their mission to help 75% of children reach a Good Level of Development by 2028. 

Director 

North East, working in person in Teesside three days a week 

Up to £85,000, dependent on experience

This is an exciting opportunity for an experienced leader, with a passion for giving children the best possible start and with a strong belief in the power of communities. The role will work both locally and nationally, as part of the wider team. 

The Director will manage our client’s existing programme in Redcar and Cleveland with a talented and committed team (10 staff). They will also develop and manage the new programme in Middlesbrough, currently in Discovery phase, and recruit a staff team of 8- 10 people, with support from the charity’s central team.  Once set up, the Director will lead the following across both areas: 

• Building relationships and networks in the areas, across the public, voluntary and private sector 

• Leading the team to support delivery of the charity's local early years strategy in the areas

• Leading the delivery of a portfolio of complementary workstreams, continuously refining and strengthening the work so that we make the greatest possible positive difference to local children and families 

• Working closely with local partners and the national team to ensure that data and learning is captured and fed into strategic thinking and our national model 

Supported by our central team, the Director will enable local stakeholders to collectively support parents and children under 5, to improve outcomes in the early years and particularly improve levels of school readiness. Crucial to this work will be engaging with and empowering local parents who are the key to successful delivery of the initiative.

This is an exciting opportunity for an impact focussed leader, who brings: 

• Experience of working at a senior level with public sector and/or voluntary organisations involved in the delivery of services and support to families with children under 5 

• A track record of implementing concurrent and complex workstreams effectively, with proven project management and evaluation skills 

• Experience at leading and developing staff teams

• Experience of building networks of solid relationships with a wide range of stakeholders

You will relish the opportunity to deliver a model that ensures strength in communities, achieves long term sustainability and aims to achieve long-term systemic improvements in early childhood development. 

We are committed to inclusion in all aspects of our work and our new Director will have the ability to collaborate effectively with people from diverse backgrounds and cultures and nurture differing views. They will work sensitively with the changing needs of our communities and be comfortable talking about the importance of inclusion to a range of audiences. 

Recruitment Timetable

Closing date:  Sunday 31st August 2025 

Initial interviews with Prospectus: 5-12th September 2025 

Panel interviews with our client: w/c 15th September 2025 

Queries 

If you have any queries or wish to have an informal discussion about the opportunity, please contact our retained advisors Anna Gardet or Erica Ritchie with a copy of your CV.

Plumstead Community Law Centre is a free specialist legal advice charity located in central Woolwich in South East London. We provide specialist legal advice and advocacy in the areas of immigration, welfare benefits and employment People can access our services via telephone or email, and through the Advice Hub outreach services we attend in local community centres. In 2024 over 1,400 local people accessed our advice and representation services, resulting in a range of financial and non-financial benefits.

Towards the end of 2024, we moved away from a collective model towards a functional management structure. We appointed an Interim CEO from the staff group and expanded our trustee board's size and expertise.

This Managing Director and Senior Solicitor role involves assuming the charity’s management from our interim CEO, who has established strong systems and secured new funding for the further strengthening of the charity. Our strategic plan includes improving our legal practice management with a view to obtaining a quality mark and securing an immigration legal aid contract. We anticipate securing further funding to expand our services, to support more people in need in our community.

We are looking for an enthusiastic, experienced solicitor who has a track record in supervision and management. Although the job description is wide ranging, support will be given through further recruitment of administrative support. 

​The Law Centre Managing Director and Senior Solicitor (“MD/SS”) is responsible for all aspects of the day-to-day operation of the Law Centre. Working within appropriate delegations from the Board, the post holder ensures that the Law Centre provides quality assured services that meet its charitable purposes. The MD/SS ensures that issues of risk and compliance are properly managed and that the Centre is an exciting, innovative and enjoyable place to work. The MD/SS ensures that the Centre operates within budgets set by the Board and 2 that it offers value for money. The MD/SS must ensure that legal, regulatory, grant, contractual and other relevant requirements are met and that the Centre continues to be relevant to its community. 

Are you looking for a role where your skills and passion can truly make an impact? This is an exciting time to join our friendly, busy, and supportive team as we implement our 10-year Mission Plan, shaping the future of our Diocese and the communities we serve.

Covering Hampshire, Berkshire, South Oxford, and the Channel Islands, our Diocese is home to 87 parishes and 50 schools, serving over 27,000 practising Catholics and supporting 32,000 children and their families. Our work is both challenging and deeply rewarding, offering the opportunity to be part of something truly meaningful.

We are seeking a Director of Finance to lead financial strategy to ensure long-term resilience, manage the finance team, deliver a high standard of financial governance, and provide effective support for our parishes. This role reports to the Chief Operating Officer.

As a key member of the Senior Leadership Team, you will provide expert financial guidance to the Bishop, Trustees, and diocesan leaders. You will oversee financial governance, treasury and investment management, risk assessment, and IT strategy, ensuring financial prudence while supporting the mission of the Church.

We are looking for a qualified accountant (ACA, ACCA, CIMA) with experience in complex organisations and, ideally, knowledge of the charity or not for profit sector. The successful candidate will have well-developed interpersonal skills, a track record of excellent attention to detail, and the ability to explain complex financial matters to non-finance audiences. A commitment to teamwork and supporting parishes is essential.

An understanding of Catholic Church teachings and values is crucial, as you will play a key role in aligning financial decisions with pastoral priorities.

This role will be working 37.5 hours per week, offering a competitive salary of £85,000 - £95,000 per annum.

Based at St. Edmund House, Bishop Crispian Way, Portsmouth, PO1 3QA, with regular travel across the Diocese to parishes and diocesan meetings, including the Channel Islands which may require overnight stays. Please note, for this role a full driving license and access to a vehicle will be required.

If you are inspired by the idea of working in a values-driven environment where your efforts will have a lasting impact, we would love to hear from you.

Come and be part of our mission!

Role Purpose

The Director of Finance is a key member of the Senior Leadership Team, responsible for strategic financial leadership and ensuring the financial sustainability of the Diocese. This role encompasses treasury management, investment strategy, risk management, IT oversight, and long-term financial planning. It also involves leading and developing a resilient and professional finance team.

The Director of Finance must balance financial prudence with pastoral priorities, fostering trust with clergy, lay leaders, and stakeholders while driving financial and operational efficiencies.

Key Responsibilities

Strategic Financial Leadership

• Develop and implement a financial strategy aligned with the Diocese’s mission and long-term objectives.
• Provide financial analysis, forecasting, and risk management to support strategic decision-making.
• Ensure compliance with Canon Law, UK financial regulations, and charity law across all jurisdictions.
• Advise the Bishop, COO, Trustees, and key leaders on all aspects of financial management.
• Attend senior board and committee meetings presenting clear and insightful financial reports.

Treasury & Investment Management

• Oversee treasury operations, ensuring effective cash flow management and financial sustainability.
• Lead on investment strategy, working with the Investment Committee and external advisors to maximise ethical and responsible investment returns.
• Regularly review Restricted and Designated Funds to ensure compliance with Diocesan policies and procedures for such funds.

Leadership of the Finance Team

• Provide strong leadership, fostering a culture of excellence, accountability, and continuous improvement.
• Develop and mentor finance staff, ensuring they have the skills and support needed to succeed.
• Ensure the efficient operation of financial systems, budgeting, reporting, and internal controls.
• Promote collaboration across diocesan departments, ensuring effective financial stewardship at all levels.

Financial Oversight, Risk Management & Investigations

• Oversee fraud risk management, implementing robust controls to identify, prevent, and address financial irregularities, particularly in parish accounts.
• Develop and maintain a Financial Risk Register, identifying and mitigating key risks across the Diocese, including fraud, liquidity, compliance, and operational risks.
• Regularly review and update the Risk Register, ensuring risks are assessed, mitigated, and reported to senior leadership and trustees.
• Establish and implement risk management strategies, embedding a culture of financial accountability across the Diocese.
• Provide audit support and financial guidance to parishes, ensuring adherence to best practices and regulatory requirements.
• Lead the development of annual budgets, ensuring alignment with diocesan strategy and long-term financial sustainability.
• Develop and maintain long-term financial forecasts, assessing future income, expenditure, and funding requirements.
• Lead and manage complex financial investigations, ensuring transparency, accuracy, and compliance.

Financial Planning & Parish Support

• Provide strategic financial support to parishes, schools, and diocesan agencies, helping them develop long-term sustainability plans.
• Offer guidance on budgeting, financial controls, and fundraising strategies.
• Develop and implement financial training for clergy and parish finance teams to improve financial literacy and compliance.
• Operational & IT Leadership
• Lead the IT strategy, ensuring digital transformation aligns with financial and operational objectives.
• Work with IT providers to ensure cybersecurity, data protection, and technology governance.
• Embed and oversee financial systems and processes, driving efficiency through modern financial software and automation.

Payroll

• Lead the payroll function working closely with the HR manager to deliver a reliable and accurate service for employees. This will include the effective use of the designated payroll IT system.

Governance, Reporting & Compliance

• Ensure full compliance with accounting standards, charity law, and internal policies across all jurisdictions.
• Delivery of the Financial Annual Report and Accounts to agreed timescales.
• Develop and update key policies and procedures to ensure financial governance and accountability.
• Work closely with Trustees, external auditors, and regulatory bodies to maintain transparency and good governance.
• Implement robust internal financial controls to safeguard diocesan assets and mitigate risks.
• Develop a standard suite of financial reports to enable informed strategic and operational decision-making for the Board of Trustees and senior leaders.
• Timely production of monthly management accounts and cashflow analysis

Leadership & Stakeholder Engagement

• Act as a trusted advisor to the Bishop, clergy, Trustees, and Senior Leadership Team.
• Communicate complex financial information clearly and persuasively to both finance professionals and non-experts.
• Build strong relationships with internal and external stakeholders, ensuring financial decisions support the Diocese’s mission.

Other Duties

• Undertake any other reasonable duties required by line manager.

Director of Finance – Person Specification

Competence, Expertise and Knowledge:

Essential

• Degree-level education (or equivalent professional qualification/experience).
• A qualified accountant (ACA, ACCA, CIMA, or equivalent).
• Extensive financial leadership experience, ideally within charities, faith-based organisations, or complex institutions.
• Proven expertise in treasury and investment management, with experience in ethical investment strategies.
• Strong IT acumen, with experience in financial systems, digital transformation, and IT governance.
• Excellent leadership and people management skills, with experience leading and developing high-performing teams.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to engage clergy, Trustees, and external stakeholders effectively.
• Confident public speaking and presentation skills, with the ability to deliver complex financial information in an engaging and accessible manner.
• Exceptional written communication skills, with the ability to produce high-quality financial reports and strategic documents.
• Knowledge of and commitment to the teachings, values, and mission of the Catholic Church.
• Strategic thinker, with the ability to balance financial discipline with pastoral priorities.
• A full, clean UK driving licence, with the ability to travel across the Diocese, including the Channel Islands.

Desirable

• Knowledge of Canon Law, charity governance, and ecclesiastical structures.
• Experience working in a faith-based or mission-driven organisation.

How to Apply

Please send a comprehensive and up to date Curriculum Vitae with a covering letter setting out your suitability for the role and motivation in applying. Please state ‘Director of Finance’ in your cover letter title.

We encourage an early application as we may close this advertisement at our discretion before the date stated, if a high number of applicants apply.

You will be notified should we wish to progress your application and invite you to an interview.

The Diocese of Portsmouth is an equal opportunities employer and welcomes applications from all who support the ethos and values of the Catholic Church.

You must have a valid UK Right to Work, as the Catholic Diocese of Portsmouth does not offer UK Visa Sponsorship.