At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a member-focused financial institution through growth and innovation.
- Company: Harp & Crown Credit Union, serving the Police Service of Northern Ireland.
- Benefits: Attractive salary, flexible hours, and a chance to make a real impact.
- Other info: Join a dynamic team committed to excellence and community responsibility.
- Why this job: Shape the future of a respected organisation with a strong community focus.
- Qualifications: Professional accountancy qualification and significant senior leadership experience required.
The predicted salary is between 80000 - 100000 £ per year.
Harp & Crown Credit Union is a trusted member-owned financial institution serving the Police Service of Northern Ireland, retired officers, staff and the wider police family. Guided by its values of Excellence, People Centred, Transparency, Trustworthy and Community Responsibility, the organisation is committed to delivering safe, ethical and flexible financial services to its members.
Following a significant programme of digital transformation and the launch of its ambitious Strategic Plan, Beyond the Numbers, Harp & Crown is seeking an exceptional Chief Executive Officer to lead the organisation through its next phase of growth and development. Reporting to the Board of Directors, the CEO will provide strategic and operational leadership, ensuring strong governance, financial stewardship, regulatory compliance and continued delivery of excellent member services.
The successful candidate will lead organisational development, drive innovation and strengthen relationships with members, stakeholders and regulators. Candidates will possess a recognised professional accountancy qualification together with significant senior leadership experience, strong financial and strategic management skills, and knowledge of governance and regulatory requirements within a financial services environment.
This is an outstanding opportunity to lead a respected organisation with a strong heritage, clear purpose and ambitious vision for the future.
Location: Belfast
Hours: 30 hours per week
Salary: Attractive salary commensurate with experience
For further information, to receive the candidate brief and a confidential discussion, please visit Clarendon Executive Website. Application is by tailored CV and supporting statement. Closing date for receipt of applications is 5pm Monday 3rd August 2026.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land CEO
✨Tap into Campus Networks
If you're still in uni, don’t forget to engage with your campus's career services and attend finance-related events. Banks often do presentations and recruitment drives on campus, so put yourself out there and make use of these opportunities to show off your passion for the field.
✨Get Certified
Consider pursuing relevant certifications like the CFA or ACCA while you’re job hunting. They not only beef up your CV but also connect you with professional bodies which can lead to networking opportunities and even job openings in banking and financial services.
✨Connect on Professional Platforms
Join finance-focused groups on platforms like LinkedIn and engage in discussions. This can really help you stand out from the crowd, allowing potential employers to see your knowledge and interest in industry trends. Plus, you might stumble upon job postings shared exclusively within the group.
✨Apply Directly and Be Proactive
Don’t shy away from reaching out directly to firms like Clarendon Executive. Use their websites and apply through them, but also consider following up with a polite email to express your enthusiasm. Being proactive can make a huge difference in getting noticed in the competitive financial services sector.
We think you need these skills to ace CEO
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Numbers!:In the banking and financial services world, quantifiable achievements are key. Make sure your CV highlights your grades in relevant subjects, any financial certifications you hold, and specific projects where you've delivered measurable results. Employers love to see how your skills translate into real-world success.
Tailor Your Cover Letter to the Role:When applying for a full-time position, your cover letter should make a direct connection between your experience and the job description. Don't just state your enthusiasm for finance—dive into how your background in banking or financial analysis sets you apart. Let your passion shine through while being specific about what you can bring to Clarendon Executive.
Include Relevant Financial Software Experience:If you've worked with financial modelling tools or software like Excel, SAP, or specific analytical tools during your studies or internships, bring that up! Highlighting your proficiency can really make your application pop and show you're ready to hit the ground running in a full-time role.
Research and Reflect:Before hitting that 'apply' button on Clarendon Executive's website, do a little digging. Look up their recent projects, values, and culture. Reflecting their ethos in your application can make a huge difference and show you’re genuinely interested in being part of the team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Clarendon Executive
✨Brush Up on Financial Analysis Skills
Make sure you're well-versed in financial concepts and analytical techniques relevant to banking and financial services. Get comfortable with tools like Excel for modelling or financial forecasting, as technical questions in this area are common during interviews with Clarendon Executive.
✨Prepare for Case Studies
Expect to tackle case studies that demonstrate your problem-solving skills in real-world banking scenarios. Familiarise yourself with the types of problems you might face—think risk assessments or investment evaluations—and be ready to articulate your thought process clearly.
✨Show Your Passion for Finance
Since this is a full-time position, employers at Clarendon Executive will be keen to see your genuine interest in finance. Be prepared to discuss recent industry trends or news articles that excite you, showcasing your enthusiasm and engagement with the field.
✨Network with Industry Professionals
Before your interview, reach out to current or former Clarendon Executive employees on platforms like LinkedIn. They'll offer unique insights into the company's culture and the interview process, which can give us a delightful edge in showcasing a good fit for the team.
