Head of Operations in London

The LSE Students’ Union is seeking an experienced and strategic leader to join our Senior Leadership Team as Head of Operations. This is a newly created position, offering an exciting opportunity to take senior oversight of our central teams and ensure the effective delivery of our operational functions.

Reporting directly to the Chief Executive Officer, you will provide leadership and direction across finance, HR, governance, compliance, and risk management. Your work will underpin the Union’s ability to deliver its strategic objectives and maintain high standards of accountability, transparency, and operational excellence.

As Head of Operations, you will lead our finance and HR team, ensuring robust financial management, effective people practices, and strong governance frameworks. You will oversee budgeting, audits, and financial reporting, while promoting a positive and inclusive workplace culture. Acting as a key adviser to the Board of Trustees and relevant committees, you will also manage risk and data protection across the organisation.

LSESU is a vibrant, student-led organisation committed to helping LSE students make the most of the life-changing experiences open to them during their time at university. As part of our Senior Leadership Team, you will play a critical role in shaping our future and helping us to create a student experience which is enjoyable and empowering.

Founded in 1897, LSE Students' Union is one of the oldest Students' Unions in the UK. We provide support, representation, and opportunities to help students thrive during their time at university. Everything we do is shaped by our members and guided by our values to be bold and inclusive, working collaboratively to create a welcoming community built on integrity and respect.

We are looking for a candidate who combines strategic vision with operational expertise. You will bring a recognised accounting qualification and strong financial acumen, alongside experience in managing both finance and HR functions. Your knowledge of governance, compliance, and risk management frameworks will be essential, as will your ability to provide clear leadership and build effective relationships at all levels.

You’ll need excellent organisation and planning skills, with a keen eye for detail and the ability to manage multiple priorities effectively. A commitment to equality, diversity, and inclusion is fundamental, together with an interest in working within a democratic, student-led environment.

As Head of Operations, you will play a pivotal role in shaping the future of the Union and supporting thousands of students at one of the world’s leading universities. We offer:

• 25 days of holiday per year (pro rata)
• Additional closure periods at Christmas and Easter
• Free LSE Students’ Union gym membership
• Opportunities for professional development and growth
• Access to TOTUM (NUS) card, which provides a wide range of discounts
• Flexibility for work-life balance

We want to ensure that all systems, policies and processes are free from bias or discrimination and are fair and accessible. Therefore, we ask that all candidates complete our application process by uploading the following three documents:

• Part 1: CV – Outlining your skills and experience to date.
• Part 2: Supporting Statement – A one-page statement explaining your suitability for the role. This will be used to determine if you are shortlisted for an interview. Please do not include any personal information (e.g., name or date of birth). Use the attached job description and person specification to help with this.
• Part 3: Equal Opportunities Monitoring and Contact Form – This includes personal information so we can contact you if you are shortlisted for an interview. It also allows us to gather and analyse demographic information about our applicants. This form will only be seen by HR and will not impact shortlisting.

To apply for this role, please complete an online application.

Closing date: Thursday 29th January 2026 at 10am Intended interview dates: 12th / 13th February 2026

Compulsory Requirement - The UK Government sets the legal regulations that we are required to follow. As an employer we must ensure that everyone is eligible to work in the UK and this is done by us checking and making a copy of the correct original identification/documentation before your first day of work. Currently we require you to have the right to work in the UK, as we are not a Home Office approved sponsor.