At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead finance and operations to support children with life-limiting conditions.
- Company: Join Helen & Douglas House, a pioneering children's hospice with a compassionate mission.
- Benefits: Competitive salary of £85,000, impactful work, and a supportive team environment.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in the lives of families while shaping strategic decisions.
- Qualifications: Qualified accountant with leadership experience and a passion for charitable services.
- Other info: Be part of a values-driven team committed to community welfare.
The predicted salary is between 85000 - 85000 £ per year.
Employer Location: OX4 1RW
Salary: £85,000 per annum
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.
Why join us?
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.
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.
Please contact if you require any adjustments during the recruitment process.
Director of Finance & Operations in Oxford employer: Helen & Douglas House
Contact Detail:
Helen & Douglas House Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Director of Finance & Operations in Oxford
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the finance and operations sectors. Attend industry events or webinars, and don’t be shy about introducing yourself to potential employers. 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 about their cause.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your pitch! Be ready to articulate your leadership style and how you can drive organisational performance. Use specific examples from your past roles to demonstrate your impact and strategic thinking.
✨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 our team at Helen & Douglas House.
We think you need these skills to ace Director of Finance & Operations in Oxford
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the Director of Finance & Operations role. Highlight your relevant experience and skills that align with the job description. We want to see how you can make a difference at Helen & Douglas House!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to express your passion for the role and the organisation. Share specific examples of how your leadership has made an impact in previous roles, and why you're excited about this opportunity.
Showcase Your Values: At StudySmarter, we value alignment with our mission. Make sure to convey your commitment to making a meaningful difference through high-quality services. Let us know how your values resonate with those of Helen & Douglas House!
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for this impactful role. Don’t miss out on the chance to join our amazing team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Helen & Douglas House
✨Know Your Numbers
As a Director of Finance & Operations, you'll need to demonstrate your financial acumen. Brush up on key financial metrics and be ready to discuss how you've used data to drive strategic decisions in the past. This shows you can bring valuable insights to the role.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Style
This position requires strong leadership skills. Prepare examples of how you've led diverse teams and fostered collaboration. Think about specific challenges you've faced and how you empowered your team to overcome them. This will highlight your ability to inspire and manage effectively.
✨Understand the Organisation's Mission
Helen & Douglas House has a unique mission. Familiarise yourself with their values and the impact they have on families. Be prepared to discuss how your personal values align with theirs and how you can contribute to their mission. This connection can set you apart from other candidates.
✨Prepare Thoughtful Questions
Interviews are a two-way street. Prepare insightful questions that show your interest in the organisation's future and your potential role in it. Ask about their strategic goals or how they measure success in this position. This demonstrates your proactive mindset and genuine interest in making a difference.