Head of Operations

Daisy Chain is a values-led charity supporting autistic and neurodivergent people and their families. We operate across multiple sites and services, with a wide range of operational, regulatory and organisational requirements. As Daisy Chain continues to develop, strong operational foundations are essential. We need to make sure our buildings, systems, suppliers, technology, information and risk arrangements are not only well managed today, but are capable of supporting where the organisation wants to go next.

We are now looking for a Head of Operations to provide senior operational leadership across the organisation and help us create the safe, effective and sustainable infrastructure needed to deliver our charitable objectives.

The Role

This is a broad senior leadership role, providing strategic oversight across a wide range of operational areas including premises and infrastructure, health and safety, risk, procurement, IT, data protection, insurance and business continuity. Working closely with the CEO, Senior Leadership Team and divisional leads, you will bring together different operational considerations, identify risks and opportunities, and provide clear advice and assurance to support organisational decision‑making. A key part of the role will be ensuring that operational matters are managed proactively rather than reactively. You'll work with teams across Daisy Chain to understand what they need now, anticipate what they may need in the future and make sure the organisation is appropriately prepared. You’ll also take the lead on significant operational projects and complex issues, from property and infrastructure developments through to procurement exercises, compliance matters and organisational improvement projects.

Leading Operational Improvement

Daisy Chain is a growing organisation, and this role provides an opportunity to shape how we manage and develop our operational infrastructure for the future. You’ll oversee the Operations function and line manage the Operations Manager, providing leadership, direction and support while ensuring that operational priorities are aligned with the wider needs of the organisation. You’ll also help strengthen our approach to risk, audit and assurance, ensuring that important actions are identified, followed through and escalated where necessary. Where something isn’t working as effectively as it could, you’ll be expected to understand why, identify practical solutions and drive improvement. The role will involve working with external providers and professional advisers across areas such as IT, property, insurance and legal matters, ensuring Daisy Chain receives the right advice, value and level of service.

About You

• We’re looking for an experienced operational leader who is comfortable working at both a strategic and practical level.
• Has significant senior experience in operations, facilities, estates or a comparable leadership environment.
• Can provide confident organisation-wide oversight of operational risk, health and safety, compliance and assurance.
• Has experience managing premises, infrastructure, projects, suppliers and contracts across multiple sites or services.
• Can lead and develop managers, while creating clear accountability and supporting people to perform at their best.
• Is confident dealing with complex issues, making sound judgements and providing clear advice to senior leaders.
• Understands the importance of effective governance, risk management and regulatory compliance without losing sight of practical delivery.
• Can work confidently across areas such as IT, cyber security, data protection and business continuity, including managing outsourced providers.
• Is commercially aware and able to identify opportunities for greater efficiency, value for money and better use of resources.
• Is organised, pragmatic and able to manage competing priorities in a busy and changing environment.
• Communicates effectively and builds positive working relationships across all levels of an organisation.
• Shares our commitment to Daisy Chain’s values and to creating safe, inclusive and effective services for the people we support.

Why join Daisy Chain

This is an opportunity to take on a genuinely broad operational leadership role within an organisation where the quality of our infrastructure, systems and risk management directly supports the people and communities we serve. You’ll have the opportunity to work closely with senior leaders, influence organisational decisions, lead significant projects and shape how Daisy Chain operates as it continues to develop. We’re looking for someone who can bring strategic thinking, sound judgement and a practical approach to making things work better. If you’re someone who enjoys seeing the bigger picture while still understanding what it takes to make things happen, we’d love to hear from you.

Benefits at Daisy Chain

• 33 days annual leave (including bank holidays, pro rata)
• Additional day for Birthday leave
• Flexible working (where possible)
• Flexi-time (eligible roles)
• Enhanced occupational sick pay
• £35 annual eye test contribution
• 10% staff discount in Daisy Chain charity shops, and free delivery on furniture
• Access to Charity Worker Discounts - exclusive discounts at a wide range of online and in-store retailers
• Company pension scheme
• Learning and development opportunities
• A welcoming and inclusive workplace

We’re Proud to be Neurodiversity Affirming. We know that everyone performs at their best in different ways. We’re committed to making our recruitment process welcoming, accessible and inclusive. If you require any reasonable adjustments at any stage, we’d be happy to discuss how we can support you. As a Disability Confident employer, applicants who declare a disability and meet the essential criteria for the role will be guaranteed an interview. Daisy Chain is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults. All appointments are subject to satisfactory pre-employment checks, including references, right to work checks and an Enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive workplace where everyone feels respected, valued and able to thrive. We welcome applications from all backgrounds and encourage individuals with lived experience of neurodiversity to apply.