At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead financial strategy and operations for a leading health charity.
- Company: Join a forward-thinking charity making a real impact in health.
- Benefits: Permanent role with hybrid working and a supportive team environment.
- Why this job: Shape the future of an organisation while empowering teams to excel.
- Qualifications: CCAB qualification and senior leadership experience in charity required.
- Other info: Inclusive culture that values diversity and promotes equity.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 84000 £ per year.
Charity People are delighted to be partnering with a leading health charity with a turnover of £4 million, where they are looking to recruit a CFOO based in High Wycombe, Buckinghamshire. As their next Chief Finance & Operations Officer, you will play a pivotal role leading a large team (Finance, HR, Data, Facilities, IT and Programme) and in shaping the future of the organisation and delivering an ambitious new strategy working closely with an inspiring CEO, team and Board.
As a key member of the Senior Leadership Team, you will lead the Finance & Compliance functions as well and ensure strong financial governance, drive operational excellence, and help create an efficient, impactful, and strategically aligned organisation. If you enjoy leading transformation, strengthening systems and processes, and empowering teams to deliver their best, this role offers a unique opportunity to make a tangible difference.
Contract: Permanent, 35 hours
Hybrid: The appointed candidate will be office based 3-4 days a week for at least two months and then 2 days per week in High Wycombe.
Key Responsibilities:
- Lead on financial strategy, business planning, budgeting, forecasting, and financial controls.
- Oversee HR, IT, Facilities, Compliance, and the Programme Office.
- Provide timely, insightful financial and operational reporting for the CEO, SMT, and Trustees.
- Manage strategic and operational planning cycles, ensuring high‑quality delivery across functions.
- Lead risk management, internal audit development, and data protection compliance.
- Strengthen organisational systems, processes, SOPs, and cross‑functional working.
- Drive cost efficiency and manage supplier relationships, procurement, and contracts.
- Provide strategic HR oversight, including people policies, recruitment planning, payroll, EVP development, and DEEI practice.
- Oversee IT infrastructure, CRM/database capability, and the tools staff need to work effectively.
We are looking for a collaborative, strategic leader who brings:
- A recognised CCAB qualification (ACA, ACCA, CIMA, CIPFA).
- Senior financial and operational leadership experience within a charity.
- Strong understanding of Charity Commission requirements and SORP.
- Experience overseeing HR, IT, Facilities, or broader operations functions.
- Confidence preparing and presenting financial/management accounts.
- A supportive, empowering leadership style and ability to develop teams.
- Digital confidence, strong communication skills, and a solutions‑focused mindset.
My client is not based close to any train station, therefore, my client will invite candidates who are willing and able to do the journey initially three to four days a week for two months and then twice a week.
Shortlisted candidates will be asked to respond to three written questions to highlight their experience, approach, and leadership style.
The role will be closing on 18th February, 2026. First stage interview via MSTeams 25th February, 2026 starting 11.00am. Second stage in person w/c 2nd March, 2026.
Charity People is a forward‑thinking, inclusive organisation that deliberately champions equity, diversity and inclusion. We know charities thrive when inclusion is at the centre of decision‑making. We proudly match organisations with talent based on skills and values, not background - because diverse teams deliver stronger results.
Chief Finance and Operations Officer in High Wycombe employer: Charity People | B Corp
Contact Detail:
Charity People | B Corp Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Chief Finance and Operations Officer in High Wycombe
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the charity sector and let them know you're on the hunt for a CFOO role. You never know who might have the inside scoop on opportunities or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for those interviews! Research the charity's mission, values, and recent projects. Tailor your responses to show how your experience aligns with their goals, especially in financial strategy and operational excellence.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your leadership style! Be ready to discuss how you've empowered teams in the past and led transformations. Use specific examples that highlight your collaborative approach and ability to drive results.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we’re here to support you every step of the way, so don’t hesitate to reach out if you need any help.
We think you need these skills to ace Chief Finance and Operations Officer in High Wycombe
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your application to highlight how your experience aligns with the role of CFOO. We want to see how you can lead financial strategy and operations in a charity setting, so don’t hold back on showcasing relevant achievements!
Be Clear and Concise: When answering the written questions, keep your responses clear and to the point. We appreciate well-structured answers that directly address the questions, so avoid fluff and focus on what really matters.
Showcase Your Leadership Style: This role is all about empowering teams and driving transformation. Use your written application to demonstrate your supportive leadership style and how you've successfully developed teams in the past. We love to see examples!
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity. We can’t wait to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at Charity People | B Corp
✨Know Your Numbers
As a CFOO, you'll need to demonstrate your financial acumen. Brush up on key financial metrics relevant to the charity sector, such as budgeting, forecasting, and compliance with Charity Commission requirements. Be ready to discuss how you've successfully managed financial strategies in previous roles.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Style
This role requires a supportive and empowering leadership style. Prepare examples of how you've developed teams and fostered collaboration in past positions. Think about specific instances where your leadership made a tangible difference in team performance or morale.
✨Understand the Organisation's Mission
Familiarise yourself with the charity's mission and values. Be prepared to articulate how your experience aligns with their goals and how you can contribute to their ambitious new strategy. Showing genuine interest in their work will set you apart from other candidates.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect to face scenario-based questions that assess your problem-solving skills and strategic thinking. Think through potential challenges the organisation might face and how you would address them. This will demonstrate your readiness to lead transformation and drive operational excellence.