At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead finance and commercial operations, ensuring effective governance and value for money.
- Company: Join IPSA, the independent body regulating public funding for MPs.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, hybrid working, and a chance to impact democracy.
- Other info: Be part of a values-driven team committed to public service.
- Why this job: Shape financial strategy and support democratic integrity in a high-profile role.
- Qualifications: Proven leadership in finance, strong judgement, and collaborative skills required.
The Independent Parliamentary Standards Authority (IPSA) is a fully hybrid organisation, with colleagues across all corners of the UK.
The Director, Finance and Commercial leads an efficient and effective high-performing service that delivers IPSA's statutory responsibilities accurately and with confidence. The role is a key member of IPSA's leadership team, attending Board meetings and committees, and representing IPSA with external partners including auditors and regulators. Working with colleagues, you will help deliver IPSA's vision, purpose and strategic priorities. With a strong focus on integrity, you will oversee an annual budget of more than £310m. You will ensure IPSA's finance and commercial arrangements are principles-based, proportionate and compliant, supported by robust governance that delivers value for money for the taxpayer and strengthens public confidence in IPSA's work.
Key Responsibilities:
- Leading a high-performing Finance and Commercial directorate through inclusive, values-led leadership, building capability, resilience and an agile culture.
- Shaping and delivering IPSA's strategy and business plans, balancing transformation, regulatory change and day-to-day delivery.
- Providing strong financial stewardship and corporate governance: effective budgeting and forecasting, clear risk management, and timely escalation of issues to the CEO.
- Ensuring accurate, prompt reimbursement of MPs' business costs and consistent, principles-based application of the Scheme, supported by high-quality management information for MPs and staff.
- Delivering insightful reporting and advice to the Board, the Audit, Risk and Assurance Committee, CEO and Leadership team, enabling robust decision-making and value for money.
- Building trusted relationships with colleagues and stakeholders, providing a high quality service in a high-scrutiny environment and protecting IPSA's independence and reputation.
- Responsible for continuous improvement of financial controls ensuring all controls operate effectively and provide assurance over the completeness and accuracy of all financial information including IPSA's Annual Report and Accounts.
- Leading commercial activity, working with the Head of Commercial to run compliant, proportionate procurement and manage suppliers to secure value, resilience and service quality.
- Living IPSA's values: Staying Connected, Seeing the Bigger Picture, Being Open, Doing the Right Thing and Making a Difference - and demonstrating commitment to the Seven Principles of Public Life.
About IPSA:
The Independent Parliamentary Standards Authority (IPSA) is the independent body that regulates and administers public funding in support of MPs' parliamentary duties. Created by the Parliamentary Standards Act 2009, we make fair and impartial decisions about MPs' pay, pensions and business costs.
What we're looking for:
You will be an accomplished leader who cares about supporting democracy and delivering regulation through excellent service. You will bring clarity, credibility and calm, working collaboratively in a complex, high-profile environment to deliver IPSA's strategy. With a positive influence on how our stakeholders feel about us, you will build trust, strengthening confidence in IPSA and democracy more widely. You will invest in your team, setting clear expectations, encouraging accountability, and constructively challenging behaviours and ways of working to align with IPSA's culture. You will bring strong judgement, resilience, and curiosity and you will be comfortable challenging assumptions to help IPSA navigate opportunities and tough decisions. With deep expertise in finance, financial risk, and commercial strategy, you will deliver value for money and strengthen financial capability across the organisation. You will have an uncompromising approach to corporate governance and risk management, working confidently with the IPSA Leadership team and Board. You will develop people and capability in the team, ensuring people live and breathe IPSA's values, perform at their best and feel valued.
Closing Date: 11:55pm, 14th Jun 2026 BST
Director, Finance and Commercial employer: IPSA
The Independent Parliamentary Standards Authority (IPSA) is an exceptional employer that champions integrity and public service, offering a hybrid work environment across the UK. With a strong commitment to employee development and a values-led culture, IPSA fosters collaboration and resilience while ensuring a meaningful impact on democracy. Employees benefit from competitive salaries, robust governance practices, and the opportunity to lead in a high-profile role that directly influences public confidence and accountability.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Director, Finance and Commercial
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the finance and commercial sectors. Attend industry events or webinars, and don’t be shy about introducing yourself. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching IPSA thoroughly. Understand their values and how they align with your own. Think about how your experience in financial stewardship and corporate governance can contribute to their mission. Tailor your responses to show you’re the perfect fit!
✨Tip Number 3
Practice makes perfect! Conduct mock interviews with friends or mentors. Focus on articulating your leadership style and how you’ve successfully managed teams and budgets in the past. The more comfortable you are, the better you’ll perform when it counts.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, keep an eye on our updates for any new opportunities that might pop up. We’re always looking for talented individuals like you!
We think you need these skills to ace Director, Finance and Commercial
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter to reflect the specific skills and experiences that align with the Director, Finance and Commercial role. Highlight your leadership experience and financial expertise to show us you’re the right fit for IPSA.
Showcase Your Values:We want to see how you embody IPSA's values in your work. Use examples from your past roles to demonstrate how you've stayed connected, seen the bigger picture, and made a difference. This will help us understand your commitment to our mission.
Be Clear and Concise:When writing your application, keep it clear and to the point. We appreciate straightforward communication, so avoid jargon and make sure your key achievements stand out. This will help us quickly grasp your qualifications.
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our official website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, you can find all the info you need about the application process there.
How to prepare for a job interview at IPSA
✨Know Your Numbers
As a candidate for the Director, Finance and Commercial role, it's crucial to be well-versed in financial metrics and budgeting processes. Brush up on IPSA's financial responsibilities and be ready to discuss how you would manage a budget of over £310m effectively.
✨Demonstrate Leadership Skills
This role requires strong leadership capabilities. Prepare examples of how you've led teams through change or transformation, focusing on inclusive and values-led leadership. Be ready to share how you build trust and resilience within your team.
✨Understand Public Sector Governance
Familiarise yourself with the principles of managing public money and corporate governance. Be prepared to discuss how you would ensure compliance and deliver value for taxpayers while maintaining IPSA's independence and reputation.
✨Showcase Your Strategic Thinking
The interview will likely focus on your ability to shape and deliver strategic plans. Think about past experiences where you've balanced regulatory changes with day-to-day operations, and be ready to articulate your approach to decision-making in a high-scrutiny environment.
