At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and develop high-performing finance operations teams to drive excellence and efficiency.
- Company: Well-respected organisation in the Financial Services sector with a focus on operational excellence.
- Benefits: Autonomy to shape key functions, influence strategy, and mentor teams.
- Other info: Opportunity for transformation and career growth in a regulated environment.
- Why this job: Make a genuine impact in a growing, customer-focused financial services organisation.
- Qualifications: Significant leadership experience in finance operations and strong knowledge of financial controls.
The predicted salary is between 59576 - 65000 £ per year.
You must be eligible to work in the UK without the need for Sponsorship.
Project People is partnering with a well-established and highly respected organisation within the Financial Services sector to recruit an experienced Head of Operations. This is an outstanding opportunity for a senior finance operations leader to take ownership of a business-critical function responsible for delivering operational excellence, robust financial controls, regulatory compliance and exceptional customer outcomes.
Reporting to the Operations Director, you'll play a key role in developing operational strategy while leading multiple specialist finance teams and driving continuous improvement across the organisation.
The Opportunity
You'll provide strategic and operational leadership across Finance Operations, ensuring scalable processes, strong governance and operational resilience while supporting the business through its next phase of growth. Working closely with Operations, Risk & Compliance, Corporate Finance, Change & IT, you'll influence business-wide improvements, strengthen financial controls and enhance the customer experience.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead and develop high-performing Finance Operations teams
- Drive operational excellence, efficiency and continuous improvement
- Own the operational finance control framework
- Ensure robust governance across payments, reconciliations, payroll and client money activities
- Deliver meaningful management information to support strategic decision-making
- Lead automation and process improvement initiatives
- Manage operational risk, audit actions and control effectiveness
- Support the delivery of the wider operational strategy
What We're Looking For
We're keen to speak with candidates who have:
- Significant leadership experience within Finance Operations, Financial Control or Operational Accounting in a regulated Financial Services environment
- Strong knowledge of financial controls, reconciliations, banking operations and operational risk
- Experience leading and developing large operational teams
- A proven track record of delivering process improvements and operational transformation
- Excellent stakeholder management skills with the ability to influence at all levels
- Experience using management information to improve operational performance and customer outcomes
- ACA, ACCA or CIMA qualification (or equivalent operational finance experience)
- Experience within pensions, wealth management or investment administration
- Knowledge of Client Money and CASS regulations
- Understanding of regulated financial services and customer-focused operational environments
Why Apply?
This is a fantastic opportunity to join a growing and well-respected Financial Services organisation where you'll have the autonomy to shape a key operational function and influence the future direction of the business.
You'll have the opportunity to:
- Lead a business-critical operational finance function
- Drive transformation, automation and process improvement
- Develop and mentor high-performing teams
- Work closely with senior leadership to influence business strategy
- Make a genuine impact within a regulated, customer-focused organisation
If you're an experienced Finance Operations leader looking for your next strategic leadership opportunity within Financial Services, we'd love to hear from you.
Head of Operations (Financial Services) in Carlisle employer: Project People
Project People is an exceptional employer that prioritises employee experience and professional growth, making it an ideal place for HR professionals looking to make a meaningful impact. Located in the vibrant city of Glasgow, we offer a collaborative work culture that fosters innovation and continuous improvement, alongside a hybrid working model that promotes work-life balance. Our commitment to developing talent ensures that employees have ample opportunities for advancement within a supportive and dynamic environment.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Operations (Financial Services) in Carlisle
✨Tap into Campus Networks
If you're still in uni, don’t forget to engage with your campus's career services and attend finance-related events. Banks often do presentations and recruitment drives on campus, so put yourself out there and make use of these opportunities to show off your passion for the field.
✨Get Certified
Consider pursuing relevant certifications like the CFA or ACCA while you’re job hunting. They not only beef up your CV but also connect you with professional bodies which can lead to networking opportunities and even job openings in banking and financial services.
✨Connect on Professional Platforms
Join finance-focused groups on platforms like LinkedIn and engage in discussions. This can really help you stand out from the crowd, allowing potential employers to see your knowledge and interest in industry trends. Plus, you might stumble upon job postings shared exclusively within the group.
✨Apply Directly and Be Proactive
Don’t shy away from reaching out directly to firms like Project People. Use their websites and apply through them, but also consider following up with a polite email to express your enthusiasm. Being proactive can make a huge difference in getting noticed in the competitive financial services sector.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Operations (Financial Services) in Carlisle
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Numbers!:In the banking and financial services world, quantifiable achievements are key. Make sure your CV highlights your grades in relevant subjects, any financial certifications you hold, and specific projects where you've delivered measurable results. Employers love to see how your skills translate into real-world success.
Tailor Your Cover Letter to the Role:When applying for a full-time position, your cover letter should make a direct connection between your experience and the job description. Don't just state your enthusiasm for finance—dive into how your background in banking or financial analysis sets you apart. Let your passion shine through while being specific about what you can bring to Project People.
Include Relevant Financial Software Experience:If you've worked with financial modelling tools or software like Excel, SAP, or specific analytical tools during your studies or internships, bring that up! Highlighting your proficiency can really make your application pop and show you're ready to hit the ground running in a full-time role.
Research and Reflect:Before hitting that 'apply' button on Project People's website, do a little digging. Look up their recent projects, values, and culture. Reflecting their ethos in your application can make a huge difference and show you’re genuinely interested in being part of the team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Project People
✨Brush Up on Financial Analysis Skills
Make sure you're well-versed in financial concepts and analytical techniques relevant to banking and financial services. Get comfortable with tools like Excel for modelling or financial forecasting, as technical questions in this area are common during interviews with Project People.
✨Prepare for Case Studies
Expect to tackle case studies that demonstrate your problem-solving skills in real-world banking scenarios. Familiarise yourself with the types of problems you might face—think risk assessments or investment evaluations—and be ready to articulate your thought process clearly.
✨Show Your Passion for Finance
Since this is a full-time position, employers at Project People will be keen to see your genuine interest in finance. Be prepared to discuss recent industry trends or news articles that excite you, showcasing your enthusiasm and engagement with the field.
✨Network with Industry Professionals
Before your interview, reach out to current or former Project People employees on platforms like LinkedIn. They'll offer unique insights into the company's culture and the interview process, which can give us a delightful edge in showcasing a good fit for the team.
