Interim - Director of Finance & Operations

Interim - Director of Finance & Operations

Full-Time 60000 - 80000 £ / year (est.) No working from home possible
Allen Lane Interim & Permanent Recruitment

At a Glance

  • Tasks: Lead finance operations and ensure stability during a transition period at a respected charity.
  • Company: Join a highly respected international charity making a real difference.
  • Benefits: Hybrid working, competitive pay, and the chance to lead impactful projects.
  • Other info: Short-term role with potential for significant career growth in the charity sector.
  • Why this job: Make a meaningful impact while supporting a purpose-led organisation.
  • Qualifications: Qualified accountant with experience in finance operations and team leadership.

The predicted salary is between 60000 - 80000 £ per year.

An exciting opportunity has arisen for an experienced interim finance leader to join a highly respected international charity, providing steady leadership while a permanent appointment is recruited. This short-term assignment will focus on maintaining strong business-as-usual operations across finance and business support, ensuring continuity, stability, and visible leadership across the organisation.

The successful candidate will work closely with the senior leadership team and trustees, supporting governance, operational delivery, and financial oversight during this interim period. The remit covers finance, HR, governance, IT, and operational support, requiring someone comfortable operating in a broad and hands-on leadership role within a collaborative environment.

You will oversee a small team, support audit and committee processes, maintain strong financial controls, oversee payroll and banking approvals, and ensure the organisation continues to operate effectively during this transition period. This role would suit a qualified accountant who enjoys supporting purpose-led organisations and can quickly build credibility with stakeholders while providing calm, pragmatic leadership. Candidates with previous international NGO or wider charity sector experience would be particularly well suited to this assignment.

Key requirements:
  • Qualified accountant (ACA, ACCA, CIMA, CIPFA or equivalent)
  • Strong experience leading finance operations within complex organisations
  • Comfortable operating both strategically and hands-on
  • Experience supporting audits, governance, and board reporting
  • Ability to provide stability and leadership through change
  • Strong stakeholder management and team leadership skills
  • Previous NGO, international development, or wider charity sector experience would be highly advantageous

The role is expected to commence around 22nd June and will likely run for approximately 2-3 months while the permanent recruitment process is completed. Hybrid working is available, with an expectation of office presence two days per week in Central London.

If interested do apply or contact Rosemary Pini for more details.

Interim - Director of Finance & Operations employer: Allen Lane Interim & Permanent Recruitment

Join a highly respected international charity that values collaboration, stability, and purpose-driven leadership. As an interim Director of Finance & Operations, you will benefit from a supportive work culture that prioritises employee growth and offers the unique opportunity to make a meaningful impact during a transitional period. With hybrid working arrangements and a central London location, this role provides an excellent balance of professional development and work-life harmony.

Allen Lane Interim & Permanent Recruitment

Contact Details:

Allen Lane Interim & Permanent Recruitment Recruitment Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫

We think this is how you could land Interim - Director of Finance & Operations

Tip Number 1

Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the charity sector and let them know you're on the lookout for interim roles. You never know who might have the inside scoop on opportunities that aren't advertised yet.

Tip Number 2

Prepare for those interviews! Brush up on your knowledge of finance operations and governance, especially in the context of NGOs. Be ready to share examples of how you've provided stability and leadership during transitions.

Tip Number 3

Showcase your hands-on experience! When chatting with potential employers, highlight your ability to operate both strategically and practically. They’ll want to see that you can jump in and lead effectively from day one.

Tip Number 4

Don’t forget to apply through our website! We’ve got some fantastic opportunities waiting for you, and applying directly can give you a better chance of standing out. Let’s get you that interim role!

We think you need these skills to ace Interim - Director of Finance & Operations

Qualified Accountant (ACA, ACCA, CIMA, CIPFA or equivalent)
Finance Operations Leadership
Strategic and Hands-on Experience
Audit Support
Governance Knowledge
Board Reporting
Stakeholder Management

Some tips for your application 🫡

Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV reflects the skills and experiences that match the job description. Highlight your leadership in finance operations and any relevant charity sector experience to catch our eye!

Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Use your cover letter to tell us why you're the perfect fit for this interim role. Share specific examples of how you've provided stability and leadership in previous positions, especially in complex organisations.

Showcase Your Qualifications:As a qualified accountant, don’t forget to mention your credentials (ACA, ACCA, CIMA, CIPFA or equivalent) prominently. We want to see how your qualifications align with our needs right from the start!

Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets into the right hands and shows us you’re serious about joining our team!

How to prepare for a job interview at Allen Lane Interim & Permanent Recruitment

Know Your Numbers

As a finance leader, it's crucial to be well-versed in the financial metrics and reports relevant to the charity sector. Brush up on key financial statements, budgeting processes, and any recent audits the organisation has undergone. This will not only show your expertise but also demonstrate your commitment to understanding their operations.

Showcase Your Leadership Style

Since this role requires strong leadership, be prepared to discuss your approach to managing teams and driving collaboration. Share specific examples of how you've led teams through transitions or challenges in the past, especially in a charity or NGO context. This will help them envision you as a stabilising force during their interim period.

Understand Their Mission

Familiarise yourself with the charity's mission and values. Be ready to articulate how your experience aligns with their goals and how you can contribute to their purpose-led initiatives. This connection can set you apart from other candidates who may not have done their homework.

Prepare for Stakeholder Questions

Given the importance of stakeholder management in this role, anticipate questions about how you would engage with trustees and senior leadership. Think of strategies you've used to build credibility and trust in previous roles, and be ready to discuss how you would apply those here.