Interim Head of Finance and Operations

Our Client is a small learning disabilities charity that delivers vital support to service users across education, employment and wider life opportunities. The organisation is values‑led, impact‑focused and plays a meaningful role in improving outcomes for individuals and communities. The charity is entering a significant period of transformation, including the exploration of potential mergers, and is seeking an experienced interim Director of Finance & Operations to provide senior leadership, stability and hands‑on expertise during this critical phase.

The Role

This is an interim leadership role, operating as the number two to the CEO and a key strategic partner to the Board of Trustees. Reporting directly to the CEO, you will take ownership of both finance and operations, with an approximate split of 66% finance and 33% operations. This is a very hands‑on role, requiring someone who is comfortable operating at both strategic and operational levels, providing financial rigour and pragmatic solutions.

Main Duties

• Lead and deliver the organisation's financial strategy, ensuring sustainability during a period of transformation
• Act as a trusted advisor to the CEO and Trustees, providing clear financial insight, challenge and risk assessment
• Produce the budgeting, forecasting, cash‑flow management and long‑term financial planning
• Ensure robust financial controls, compliance and governance frameworks are in place and operating effectively
• Preparation of management accounts, statutory accounts and external reporting
• Take responsibility for operations, including IT, facilities, HR, corporate companies and core organisational infrastructure
• Support and assess operational readiness in the context of potential mergers or partnerships
• Work closely with external advisors, auditors and stakeholders as required
• Support the Board and sub‑committees with high‑quality reporting and analysis

The Successful Candidate

• Fully qualified accountant (ACA, ACCA, CIMA or equivalent)
• Significant experience operating at Director or Head of Finance level in a senior leadership capacity
• Proven experience in interim, transformation or change environments
• Strong understanding of charity governance, financial stewardship and Trustee reporting
• Experience overseeing and being hands‑on in the operational functions
• Comfortable in a hands‑on role, balancing strategy with delivery
• Confident working closely with a CEO and Board as a senior partner
• Experience within the charity, not‑for‑profit or education sector is highly desirable
• Exposure to mergers, restructuring or integration activity would be advantageous

What's on Offer?

• Part‑time role (up to 4 days per week)
• Day‑rate contract, outside IR35
• 3 days per week office‑based in North London
• Initial 6 months+ contract
• Opportunity to play a key leadership role during a pivotal period
• Chance to make a meaningful impact within a purpose‑driven organisation

Our Commitment to Equality, Diversity and Inclusion: We believe that diverse teams drive better outcomes and stronger organisations. We are committed to promoting equality of opportunity and creating inclusive environments where everyone feels valued. We actively encourage applications from candidates of all backgrounds and experiences and seek to reflect the diversity of the communities the charity serves.