Interim Director of Operations & HR

Interim Director of Operations & HR

Temporary 60000 - 75000 £ / year (est.) Home office (partial)
Merrifield Consultants

At a Glance

  • Tasks: Lead HR and operations for a charity tackling domestic abuse, driving change and excellence.
  • Company: Join a respected UK-based charity making a real difference in the community.
  • Benefits: Home-based role with travel, competitive salary, pension contribution, and a London weighting allowance.
  • Other info: Diverse and inclusive recruitment process; applications from all backgrounds encouraged.
  • Why this job: Make a meaningful impact while leading a passionate team through organisational growth.
  • Qualifications: Extensive senior leadership experience in HR, operations, and financial management required.

The predicted salary is between 60000 - 75000 £ per year.

Merrifield Consultants are delighted to be partnering with a prominent UK-based domestic abuse charity to recruit an Interim Director of HR & Operations. This is a pivotal leadership appointment at a time of organisational growth and transformation, offering the opportunity to make a meaningful impact within a respected national charity tackling domestic abuse and violence against women and girls. The successful candidate will join the Executive Leadership Team and provide strategic oversight across HR, operations and finance. This role requires an experienced and values-led leader who can bring stability, strengthen systems and processes, and support the organisation through a period of change.

Contract: Interim contract for up to 6 months

Location: Home-based with regular travel to London (twice a month)

Working Pattern: Full-time, overseeing Finance, Operations and HR

A London weighting allowance is available for London-based employees, alongside an employer pension contribution. This is an exciting opportunity for an experienced HR and operational leader with a strong understanding of the charity sector and a passion for driving organisational excellence within a mission-driven environment.

Responsibilities

  • Provide strategic leadership across HR, operations, finance and organisational infrastructure
  • Lead and support operational teams through a period of growth and change
  • Oversee organisational risk management, compliance and governance processes
  • Review and improve internal systems, policies and operational workflows
  • Ensure effective financial oversight, including budgeting, forecasting and audit management
  • Act as a key member of the Executive Leadership Team, contributing to organisational strategy and decision-making
  • Oversee contracts, procurement, GDPR compliance and organisational reporting
  • Build strong working relationships with trustees, stakeholders and external partners
  • Lead on HR strategy, employee relations and people management oversight

Person Specification

  • Significant senior leadership experience within HR, operations and financial management
  • Strong experience working within the voluntary, charity or not-for-profit sector
  • Proven ability to lead teams and manage organisational change effectively
  • Excellent problem-solving, communication and stakeholder management skills
  • Strong understanding of governance, compliance, risk and financial controls
  • Ability to operate confidently in a complex and fast-paced environment
  • Commitment to equity, diversity, inclusion and anti-discriminatory practice
  • Understanding of the challenges surrounding domestic abuse and survivor-centred services
  • Extensive senior HR leadership experience and a relevant HR qualification are essential.

This role would suit a calm, collaborative and highly capable senior leader who thrives on bringing structure, resilience and strategic oversight to purpose-led organisations. To apply, please contact Merrifield Consultants for further information or submit your CV today as CV’s will be submitted to the client by Friday 29th May.

We practice a diverse and inclusive recruitment process that ensures equal opportunity for all we work with, irrespective of race, sexual orientation, mental or physical disability, age or gender. As an organisation, we encourage applications from all backgrounds and will ensure measures are met when required, to allow a fair process throughout.

Interim Director of Operations & HR employer: Merrifield Consultants

Merrifield Consultants is an exceptional employer, offering a unique opportunity to lead within a respected charity dedicated to tackling domestic abuse and violence against women and girls. With a strong commitment to equity, diversity, and inclusion, the organisation fosters a collaborative work culture that empowers employees to make a meaningful impact while providing ample opportunities for professional growth and development. The home-based role, complemented by regular travel to London, ensures flexibility while allowing you to engage with key stakeholders in a vibrant city known for its rich cultural landscape.

Merrifield Consultants

Contact Details:

Merrifield Consultants Recruitment Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫

We think this is how you could land Interim Director of Operations & HR

Tip Number 1

Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the charity sector and let them know you're on the lookout for opportunities. You never know who might have the inside scoop on a role that’s perfect for you.

Tip Number 2

Prepare for interviews by researching the organisation thoroughly. Understand their mission, values, and recent developments. This will help you tailor your responses and show that you’re genuinely interested in making an impact.

Tip Number 3

Practice your leadership stories! Be ready to share specific examples of how you've led teams through change or improved processes. This will demonstrate your experience and ability to thrive in a dynamic environment.

Tip Number 4

Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive about their job search.

We think you need these skills to ace Interim Director of Operations & HR

Strategic Leadership
HR Management
Operations Management
Financial Oversight
Organisational Change Management
Risk Management
Compliance and Governance

Some tips for your application 🫡

Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV speaks directly to the role of Interim Director of Operations & HR. Highlight your leadership experience in HR and operations, especially within the charity sector, to show us you’re the right fit for this pivotal position.

Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to tell us why you're passionate about tackling domestic abuse and how your values align with our mission. Be specific about your achievements and how they relate to the responsibilities outlined in the job description.

Showcase Your Leadership Style:In your application, give us a glimpse of your leadership style. We want to know how you’ve led teams through change and what strategies you've used to strengthen systems and processes. This will help us see how you can bring stability to our organisation.

Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your CV and cover letter. Plus, it ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity to make a meaningful impact in the charity sector.

How to prepare for a job interview at Merrifield Consultants

Know the Charity Inside Out

Before your interview, take the time to research the charity's mission, values, and recent initiatives. Understanding their approach to tackling domestic abuse will not only show your genuine interest but also help you align your experience with their goals.

Showcase Your Leadership Style

As an Interim Director of HR & Operations, you'll need to demonstrate your leadership capabilities. Prepare examples of how you've successfully led teams through change, focusing on your problem-solving skills and ability to foster collaboration in challenging environments.

Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions

Expect questions that assess your strategic thinking and decision-making skills. Think of specific scenarios where you've managed risk, compliance, or financial oversight, and be ready to discuss the outcomes and lessons learned.

Highlight Your Commitment to Diversity and Inclusion

Given the charity's focus on equity and anti-discriminatory practices, be prepared to discuss how you've promoted diversity and inclusion in previous roles. Share concrete examples of initiatives you've led or contributed to that support these values.