At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead financial strategy and governance while managing risk and compliance.
- Company: Join the Horniman Museum, a unique cultural attraction in London.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, part-time hours, and a collaborative work environment.
- Other info: Be part of a diverse team committed to community representation and collaboration.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in a values-driven organisation focused on equity and inclusion.
- Qualifications: Qualified finance professional with senior-level experience, ideally in charity or public sector.
The predicted salary is between 39887 - 39887 £ per year.
Location: 100 London Rd, London SE23 3PQ
Category: Financial Senior management
Salary: £79,774 per annum, pro‑rata (Actual salary: £39,887 per annum)
Contract type: Contract Permanent
Hours: Part time
Telephone: 020 8699 1872
Our Culture and Values
At the Horniman, our values are central to how we work and the culture we expect all colleagues to contribute to. We are a highly collaborative, values‑driven organisation, and success in this role will depend on building strong and effective working relationships across the organisation. We are looking for a leader who demonstrates our values of Caring, Friendly, Respectful, and Inclusive, and who works in a collegiate and collaborative way with colleagues at all levels, including the Senior Management Team and Board. We particularly welcome candidates who are committed to equity, diversity and inclusion and who thrive in values‑led environments.
About Us
The Horniman Museum and Gardens is a unique attraction in south east London where global cultures and the natural world are brought together for everyone to enjoy. The Museum holds internationally important collections of anthropology and musical instruments, as well as a popular natural history gallery and Aquarium. The 16 acres of beautiful Gardens feature a tropical Butterfly House and offer stunning views across London.
About the Role
We are seeking an experienced senior finance leader to join our Senior Management Team as Director of Finance. This is a key role responsible for financial strategy, governance, risk management, and compliance. You will work closely with the CEO, Board of Trustees, and senior colleagues to ensure strong financial control, sustainable planning, and effective decision-making. You will also act as Company Secretary to the Horniman Public Museum and Public Park Trust.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead financial strategy, planning, and financial management
- Ensure strong financial controls, reporting, governance, and compliance
- Provide clear financial advice to the CEO, SMT, Board, and committees
- Oversee budgeting, forecasting, cash flow, accounts, payroll, and audit processes
- Manage risk, reserves, and investment policies
- Act as Company Secretary to the Horniman Public Museum and Public Park Trust
- Contribute to SMT decision‑making and organisational leadership
- Support improvements in financial processes, procurement, and value for money
About You
We are looking for a qualified finance professional with significant senior‑level experience, ideally in the charity or public sector. Strong experience in financial leadership, planning, and governance. Experience managing teams, budgets, and financial systems. Excellent communication skills and ability to explain complex financial information. Strong understanding of audit, compliance, and risk management. Experience working at senior leadership or Board level. Commitment to equity, diversity, inclusion, and collaborative working.
Closing Date for Applications: 10am on Monday 29 June 2026
First interviews: 22 - 24 July 2026
The Horniman is an equal opportunities employer, and we value and celebrate diversity. We want to better represent the communities in which we work and warmly welcome applications from all backgrounds, particularly from communities that are traditionally underrepresented or disadvantaged in society.
Director of Finance employer: Horniman Museum and Gardens
The Horniman Museum and Gardens is an exceptional employer, offering a collaborative and values-driven work culture that prioritises equity, diversity, and inclusion. As the Director of Finance, you will play a pivotal role in shaping financial strategy within a unique environment that combines cultural heritage with natural beauty, while enjoying opportunities for professional growth and development in a supportive team setting.
Contact Details:
Horniman Museum and Gardens Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Director of Finance
✨Network Like a Pro
Get out there and connect with people in the finance sector! Attend industry events, join relevant online groups, and don’t be shy about reaching out to folks on LinkedIn. Building relationships can open doors that a CV just can’t.
✨Show Your Passion
When you get the chance to chat with potential employers, let your enthusiasm for finance and the mission of the Horniman shine through. Share stories that highlight your commitment to equity, diversity, and inclusion – it’s what they’re looking for!
✨Prepare for Interviews
Do your homework on the Horniman Museum and Gardens! Understand their values and how your experience aligns with their goals. Prepare thoughtful questions that show you’re genuinely interested in contributing to their financial strategy.
✨Apply Through Our Website
Don’t forget to apply directly through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining our team and being part of our collaborative culture.
We think you need these skills to ace Director of Finance
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV reflects the skills and experiences that align with the Director of Finance role. Highlight your financial leadership experience and any relevant achievements that showcase your ability to manage teams and budgets.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're passionate about the Horniman's values and how you can contribute to their mission. Be sure to mention your commitment to equity, diversity, and inclusion.
Showcase Your Communication Skills:As a finance leader, you'll need to communicate complex information clearly. In your application, demonstrate your ability to convey financial concepts in an understandable way, perhaps by including examples from your past roles.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website for a smoother process. This way, you can ensure all your documents are submitted correctly and you’ll be kept in the loop about your application status!
How to prepare for a job interview at Horniman Museum and Gardens
✨Know Your Numbers
As a Director 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 in past roles. This shows you’re not just familiar with numbers but can also leverage them for strategic decision-making.
✨Emphasise Collaboration
Given the Horniman's focus on a collaborative culture, prepare examples that showcase your ability to work effectively with diverse teams. Think about times when you’ve built strong relationships across departments or influenced senior management decisions through teamwork.
✨Showcase Your Values
The organisation values Caring, Friendly, Respectful, and Inclusive behaviours. Be ready to share personal anecdotes that reflect these values in your leadership style. This will help you connect with the interviewers on a cultural level.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect scenario-based questions that assess your problem-solving skills in financial governance and risk management. Practice articulating your thought process and decision-making strategies in hypothetical situations relevant to the role.
