Head of Finance in London

Head of Finance in London

London Full-Time 60000 - 80000 € / year (est.) No home office possible
Follicular Lymphoma Foundation

At a Glance

  • Tasks: Lead financial strategy and operations for a mission-driven charity focused on curing follicular lymphoma.
  • Company: The Follicular Lymphoma Foundation, a pioneering charity dedicated to cancer research.
  • Benefits: Flexible hybrid working, professional development, private medical insurance, and 25 days annual leave.
  • Other info: Exciting opportunity to shape financial strategy in a fast-growing organisation.
  • Why this job: Join a passionate team making a real impact in the fight against cancer.
  • Qualifications: Qualified accountant with senior finance leadership experience in a charity environment.

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

The Follicular Lymphoma Foundation (FLF) is partnering with Robertson Bell on a retained basis to appoint a Head of Finance on a permanent basis. This is a pivotal leadership opportunity within an ambitious, globally focused organisation working to accelerate a cure for follicular lymphoma - and to do it fast. Founded in 2019, FLF is the first charity in the world dedicated solely to finding a cure for follicular lymphoma, an incurable blood cancer affecting more than 1.5 million people globally. Operating across the UK, US and Israel, the FLF is reshaping how science, capital and patient insight come together to drive breakthrough research, accelerate innovation and create meaningful patient outcomes. This is a unique opportunity to join a fast‑growing, mission‑driven organisation at a transformative stage in its journey.

Reporting directly to the Global CEO and working closely with UK Trustees, US Board Members, Israel Board Directors and senior stakeholders, the Head of Finance will play a central role in shaping financial strategy, strengthening operational maturity and supporting the organisation's ambitious international growth plans.

The role:

  • Lead the development of FLF's long‑term financial strategy, supporting the organisation's next phase of growth and international expansion.
  • Partner closely with the Global CEO, Trustees, Board Members, Directors and leadership team, providing strategic financial insight to support organisational decision‑making, programme investment and fundraising activity.
  • Oversee all aspects of financial management across multiple international entities, ensuring robust financial controls, governance and compliance frameworks are in place.
  • Lead budgeting, forecasting and scenario modelling processes, supporting both operational delivery and long‑term strategic planning.
  • Build strong relationships across fundraising, research and programme teams, supporting complex grant funding, restricted revenue management and pharma partnership activity.
  • Oversee the production of monthly management accounts, statutory reporting, audit processes and regulatory submissions across UK and US operations.
  • Drive improvements in financial systems, reporting processes and operational efficiency as the organisation scales.
  • Provide leadership and development support to the Finance and Operations Officer, helping build capability within the finance function.
  • Act as a trusted advisor across the organisation, balancing hands‑on operational delivery with strategic leadership and challenge.
  • Represent finance confidently at Board and leadership level, communicating complex financial information clearly to non‑finance stakeholders.

The organisation:

The Follicular Lymphoma Foundation exists for one reason: to cure follicular lymphoma and cure it fast. FLF is unapologetically ambitious in its mission, bringing together researchers, clinicians, patients, pharmaceutical partners and global funders to accelerate scientific breakthroughs and challenge conventional approaches to cancer research. With revenue and complexity of work expected to grow significantly over the coming years, the FLF is entering an exciting new phase of organisational development. The Foundation combines the pace and agility of a scaling start‑up with the credibility and global reach of an internationally connected research organisation. The successful candidate will join a leadership team committed to building an organisation capable of delivering transformational impact for patients worldwide.

Alongside the opportunity to play a pivotal role within a mission‑driven organisation, FLF offers a collaborative and supportive culture, flexible hybrid working, genuine work‑life balance, professional development opportunities, private medical insurance, life insurance, pension contributions and 25 days annual leave.

Essential criteria:

  • Qualified accountant (ACA, ACCA, CIMA or equivalent) or qualified by experience.
  • Strong experience in a senior finance leadership role, within a charity environment.
  • Proven experience managing financial operations, reporting, budgeting and forecasting within a growing organisation.
  • Experience operating across complex stakeholder environments, with the confidence to influence and challenge senior leaders and Boards.
  • Strong understanding of financial governance, controls, compliance and risk management.
  • Hands‑on and adaptable approach, comfortable operating strategically while remaining close to operational detail.
  • Excellent relationship‑building and communication skills, with high levels of emotional intelligence and credibility.
  • A proactive, solutions‑focused mindset with the ability to thrive in a fast‑paced, evolving organisation.
  • Experience working across multiple entities, funding streams or international operations would be highly advantageous.

If you are a strategic and hands‑on finance leader looking to play a meaningful role within a high‑growth, charitable organisation with an ambitious mission, we would love to hear from you. Apply before 14 June to be considered! This role is based in London with an expectation of 2 days per week in the office on Finchley Road.

Head of Finance in London employer: Follicular Lymphoma Foundation

The Follicular Lymphoma Foundation (FLF) is an exceptional employer, offering a unique opportunity to lead financial strategy within a mission-driven organisation dedicated to curing follicular lymphoma. With a collaborative and supportive culture, FLF promotes professional development, flexible hybrid working, and a genuine work-life balance, making it an ideal place for those seeking meaningful and impactful employment in the heart of London.

Follicular Lymphoma Foundation

Contact Detail:

Follicular Lymphoma Foundation Recruiting Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫

We think this is how you could land Head of Finance in London

Tip Number 1

Network like a pro! Reach out to people in your industry, especially those connected to the Follicular Lymphoma Foundation. Attend events, join relevant online groups, and don’t be shy about asking for informational interviews. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings!

Tip Number 2

Prepare for interviews by researching the organisation thoroughly. Understand their mission, values, and recent projects. This will not only help you answer questions but also show your genuine interest in the role and the impact you can make as Head of Finance.

Tip Number 3

Practice your pitch! Be ready to explain how your experience aligns with FLF's goals. Highlight your financial leadership skills and how they can support the organisation’s ambitious growth plans. Confidence is key, so rehearse until it feels natural.

Tip Number 4

Don’t forget to follow up after interviews! A simple thank-you email can go a long way. It shows your appreciation and keeps you fresh in their minds. Plus, it’s another chance to reiterate your enthusiasm for the role and the organisation.

We think you need these skills to ace Head of Finance in London

Financial Strategy Development
Financial Management
Budgeting
Forecasting
Scenario Modelling
Stakeholder Engagement
Financial Reporting

Some tips for your application 🫡

Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter to highlight your relevant experience in finance leadership, especially within a charity context. We want to see how your skills align with our mission at the Follicular Lymphoma Foundation!

Showcase Your Strategic Insight:In your application, emphasise your ability to provide strategic financial insight and how you've influenced decision-making in previous roles. We’re looking for someone who can partner closely with our leadership team and drive financial strategy.

Highlight Relationship-Building Skills:Don’t forget to mention your experience in building strong relationships across teams. We value excellent communication skills and emotional intelligence, so share examples of how you’ve successfully collaborated with diverse stakeholders.

Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website for a smoother process. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensure it gets the attention it deserves. Don’t miss out on this exciting opportunity!

How to prepare for a job interview at Follicular Lymphoma Foundation

Know Your Numbers

As a Head of Finance, you'll need to demonstrate your financial acumen. Brush up on key financial metrics and be ready to discuss how you've used them to drive strategic decisions in previous roles. This shows you can translate complex financial data into actionable insights.

Understand the Mission

The Follicular Lymphoma Foundation is all about curing follicular lymphoma. Familiarise yourself with their mission and recent initiatives. Be prepared to discuss how your financial strategies can support their ambitious goals and enhance their operational maturity.

Build Relationships

This role involves working closely with various stakeholders, from the Global CEO to Board Members. Think about examples from your past where you've successfully built relationships across different teams. Highlight your communication skills and emotional intelligence during the interview.

Showcase Your Adaptability

The FLF is a fast-paced, evolving organisation. Be ready to share experiences where you've thrived in similar environments. Discuss how you've balanced hands-on operational tasks with strategic leadership, showcasing your ability to adapt and lead effectively.