At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead finance and commercial services, ensuring effective budgeting and governance.
- 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 making a difference.
- Why this job: Shape financial strategy and strengthen public confidence in parliamentary standards.
- Qualifications: Proven leadership in finance, strong judgement, and collaborative skills.
The predicted salary is between 110000 - 126000 € per year.
The Independent Parliamentary Standards Authority (IPSA) is seeking a Director, Finance and Commercial. The role involves leading an efficient and effective high-performing service that delivers IPSA's statutory responsibilities accurately and with confidence. As a key member of IPSA's leadership team, you will attend Board meetings and committees, representing IPSA with external partners including auditors and regulators.
With a strong focus on integrity, you will oversee an annual budget of more than £310m, ensuring 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 in London employer: IPSA
The Independent Parliamentary Standards Authority (IPSA) is an exceptional employer that champions integrity and public service, offering a dynamic hybrid work environment across the UK. With a strong commitment to employee development, IPSA fosters a culture of inclusivity and values-led leadership, ensuring that team members are empowered to excel in their roles while contributing to the vital mission of supporting democracy. Employees benefit from competitive salaries, robust governance practices, and the opportunity to make a meaningful impact on public confidence and accountability.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Director, Finance and Commercial in London
✨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!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for those interviews! Research IPSA thoroughly—know their values, mission, and recent projects. This will help you tailor your responses and show that you’re genuinely interested in being part of their team.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice makes perfect! Conduct mock interviews with friends or mentors. Focus on articulating your leadership style and how you can contribute to IPSA’s goals. The more comfortable you are, the better you’ll perform!
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to follow up! After an interview, send a thank-you email expressing your appreciation for the opportunity. It’s a great way to reinforce your interest in the role and keep you top of mind for the hiring team.
We think you need these skills to ace Director, Finance and Commercial in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role:Before you dive into your application, take a moment to really grasp what the Director, Finance and Commercial role entails. Familiarise yourself with the responsibilities and expectations outlined in the job description so you can tailor your application accordingly.
Showcase Your Leadership Skills:This position is all about leading a high-performing team, so make sure to highlight your leadership experience. Share examples of how you've built capability and resilience in your previous roles, and how you align with IPSA's values.
Be Clear and Concise:When writing your application, clarity is key! Use straightforward language and get straight to the point. Make sure your achievements and experiences are easy to understand and relevant to the role.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us without any hiccups. Plus, you’ll find all the necessary information about the role and 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 have a solid grasp of financial metrics and budgeting principles. Be prepared to discuss your experience with managing large budgets and how you've ensured compliance and value for money in previous roles.
✨Demonstrate Leadership Skills
This position requires strong leadership capabilities. Think of examples where you've led teams through change or transformation. Be ready to share how you foster an inclusive culture and build resilience within your team, aligning with IPSA's values.
✨Understand Public Sector Dynamics
Familiarise yourself with the principles of managing public money and the unique challenges faced by public sector organisations. Show that you understand the importance of transparency and accountability in financial stewardship during your interview.
✨Build Relationships
Highlight your ability to build trusted relationships with stakeholders. Prepare to discuss how you've successfully collaborated with external partners, auditors, and regulators in the past, ensuring effective communication and service delivery.
