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- Tasks: Lead finance and operations to support children and families in need.
- Company: Join Helen & Douglas House, the world's first children's hospice.
- Benefits: Make a meaningful impact while working with a dedicated team.
- Why this job: Shape the future of compassionate care for children with life-limiting conditions.
- Qualifications: Qualified accountant with strong leadership and communication skills.
- Other info: Be part of a values-driven team making a real difference.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
Closing date: 26th March 2026 at 12 noon
Join Helen & Douglas House as our next Director of Finance & Operations. Help to shape the future of the world’s first children’s hospice and make a profound difference to the lives of local families. Helen & Douglas House has been supporting children living with life‑limiting conditions and their families for more than 40 years. We are a place of compassion, expertise and unwavering commitment — and now, we are searching for an exceptional Director of Finance & Operations to help ensure we build upon our unique legacy of innovative and impactful care and support.
A role with purpose. A role with impact. As a key member of our Executive Team and working closely with our CEO and Board of Trustees, you will be at the heart of strategic decision making — ensuring our resources, systems and operations are effective, efficient, and aligned with the needs of the children and families we serve. This is an opportunity to influence the long‑term sustainability of a truly special organisation at an important and exciting time for the hospice sector.
What you’ll lead
- Provide strategic leadership across Finance, Estates & Operations, Information Systems, Data & Governance, Risk, Health & Safety and our Project Management Office.
- Providing insightful financial leadership to help shape our strategic plans.
- Oversee the annual corporate planning and budget cycle.
- Ensure strong governance, regulatory compliance and effective risk management.
- Lead our Estates & Facilities strategy, ensuring our buildings and environments remain safe, high quality and fit for purpose.
- Guide the development of an effective organisational information systems strategy.
- Support and empower a talented cohort of Heads of Department — fostering a culture of collaboration, accountability and excellence.
- Act as a trusted ambassador to regulators, partners, advisors and donors.
Who we’re looking for
- A qualified accountant (ACA, ACCA, CIMA or CIPFA).
- A strategic and inspirational leader with experience overseeing diverse operational functions.
- Skilled at navigating complexity, shaping strategy and driving organisational performance.
- An exceptional communicator, able to build trust and confidence with stakeholders at every level.
- Passionate about making a meaningful difference through high quality, sustainable charitable services.
- Experience in the non‑profit or healthcare sector is welcome but not essential — what matters most is your leadership, values and ability to deliver impact.
At Helen & Douglas House, every decision you make directly supports children and families facing life‑limiting conditions. You will join a committed, values driven Executive Team and help to lead an organisation with a powerful mission and deep community roots. If you’re motivated by our purpose and ready to bring your expertise to an organisation where your leadership will truly matter, we would love to hear from you. Apply today and help us secure an impactful and sustainable future for Helen & Douglas House and the families we serve.
Please note that everyone working for Helen & Douglas House are required to undertake a Disclosure and Barring Service check. Helen & Douglas House is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. We are an equal opportunities employer and value the benefits of a diverse workforce. We positively encourage applications from all areas of the community.
Director of Finance & Operations employer: Helen and Douglas House
Contact Detail:
Helen and Douglas House Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Director of Finance & Operations
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the finance and operations sectors. Attend industry events or webinars where you can meet potential employers or colleagues. Remember, it’s all about who you know!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching Helen & Douglas House thoroughly. Understand their mission and values, and think about how your experience aligns with their goals. This will help you stand out as a candidate who truly cares.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your leadership skills during interviews. Be ready to share examples of how you've successfully managed teams and projects in the past. Highlight your ability to inspire and drive results — that’s what they’re looking for!
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you’re genuinely interested in joining the team at Helen & Douglas House.
We think you need these skills to ace Director of Finance & Operations
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter to highlight how your experience aligns with the role of Director of Finance & Operations. We want to see how your skills can help us shape the future of Helen & Douglas House!
Showcase Your Leadership Skills: As a strategic leader, it’s important to demonstrate your ability to inspire and manage teams. Share examples of how you've successfully led diverse operational functions in the past — we love hearing about your impact!
Be Authentic: Let your passion for making a difference shine through in your application. We’re looking for someone who truly cares about our mission and values, so don’t be afraid to express why this role matters to you.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to submit your application directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for this impactful role at Helen & Douglas House!
How to prepare for a job interview at Helen and Douglas House
✨Know the Mission
Before your interview, take some time to really understand the mission of Helen & Douglas House. Familiarise yourself with their history and the impact they have on families. This will not only show your genuine interest but also help you align your answers with their values.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Style
As a Director of Finance & Operations, your leadership style is crucial. Prepare examples that demonstrate how you've successfully led teams in the past, especially in complex environments. Be ready to discuss how you foster collaboration and accountability among your team members.
✨Prepare for Strategic Questions
Expect questions about strategic decision-making and operational efficiency. Think about specific instances where you've shaped strategy or improved processes. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your responses clearly and effectively.
✨Engage with Financial Insights
Since this role involves providing financial leadership, be prepared to discuss your approach to budgeting and financial planning. Bring insights into how you can contribute to the long-term sustainability of the organisation, and don’t shy away from discussing any relevant experience in the non-profit or healthcare sectors.