At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and optimise Finance Operations, driving transformation through technology and process improvement.
- Company: Join Railpen, a leader in pension fund management with a strong community focus.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, generous leave, health benefits, and flexible working options.
- Other info: Embrace a culture of integrity and community in a dynamic work environment.
- Why this job: Shape the future of finance operations while making a positive impact on communities.
- Qualifications: Proven leadership in Finance Operations and experience with transformation and technology.
The predicted salary is between 58500 - 71500 £ per year.
An exciting newly created opportunity to join our Finance team as Head of Finance Operations on a permanent basis working from either our London or Darlington office (hybrid working).
Who we are
Railpen is responsible for the safekeeping and investment of around £34 billion in assets and the administration of several pension schemes, including the Railways Pension Scheme, one of the UK's largest and longest established pension funds. Our heritage of looking after the pension needs of the rail industry and its employees gives us our name and our unique outlook on how we serve our members. Railpen takes a holistic view, focusing on how we serve members today and how we can positively impact the communities and the world they will retire into.
The Role
We are seeking an experienced and forward-thinking Head of Finance Operations to lead the continued evolution of our Finance Operations function. This is a pivotal leadership role responsible for shaping a scalable, resilient and technology-enabled finance operations function that supports Railpen's strategic objectives.
Following the successful implementation of Workday, you will lead the optimisation of Finance Operations including the processes and ways of working within the new system, ensuring teams make effective use of existing capabilities and considering future opportunities for continual improvements. You will drive further transformation through process improvement, automation and the adoption of emerging technologies, including AI, working in partnership with Finance Systems.
Working closely with colleagues across our Finance, Technology and Change & Transformation (C&T) teams, you will ensure Finance Operations delivers measurable business value while maintaining strong controls, governance, operational resilience and service excellence.
You will:
- Define and deliver the Finance Operations strategy and operating model, ensuring it supports Railpen's wider technology and business objectives.
- Lead the optimisation of Finance Operations processes and ways of working within in the Workday environment, improving adoption and use of existing system capabilities, and drive the adoption of automation, AI and other emerging technologies to enhance efficiency, control, operational resilience and service delivery in partnership with Finance Development.
- Design and evolve a scalable, resilient Finance Operations function through process simplification, standardisation and continuous improvement.
- Strengthen operational resilience through robust financial controls, clear governance, effective contingency and business continuity arrangements and compliance with Finance, Risk and Audit requirements.
- Manage and oversee the relationship with critical banking suppliers, ensuring clear accountability, strong service performance, effective risk and resilience oversight, and timely escalation and resolution of issues.
- Build strong relationships with senior stakeholders, delivering measurable benefits from finance transformation initiatives while developing a high-performing, future-focused team.
- Ensure the alignment of Finance Operations with the other key operations teams across the organisation, including Member Services Administration and Financial Operations and Pension and Investments Management Fund and Investment Accounting Team.
This role is not eligible for visa sponsorship. Applicants must have the legal right to work in the UK.
The Person
We're looking for a strategic finance leader with a strong background in Finance Operations, transformation and technology enablement. You will combine excellent operational expertise with the ability to lead change, build relationships and develop high-performing teams.
You will ideally have:
- Significant senior leadership experience within Finance Operations, including payment and banking systems and processes is essential.
- Additionally, experience in Accounting Operations or Shared Services environments would also be beneficial.
- Significant experience in designing and implementing systems and processes that embed operational resilience for key business services, together with a good working understanding of FCA Operational Resilience Framework (SYSC 15A).
- A proven track record of delivering finance transformation and process optimisation, including process redesign, standardisation and effective adoption of new systems.
- Strong knowledge of financial controls, governance, month-end close and reconciliation processes.
- Experience leveraging ERP systems, automation and emerging technologies, including AI, to drive operational efficiency and business value.
- Along with “customer/user side”, experience on the supplier side of payments and banking solutions would be beneficial.
- Excellent stakeholder management and influencing skills, with the ability to lead cross-functional change across Finance, Technology and the wider business.
- Strong analytical, communication and problem-solving skills, with the ability to build and develop high-performing teams.
Our values of integrity, community and alignment are the guiding principles that influence our behaviour. They help us make decisions and shape our relationships with others. They're what we stand for. You will actively demonstrate our values, helping to create a safe environment, place the needs of the community above yourself and, through a culture of fair challenge, align decisions to the best interests of our members.
What we can offer you
- A competitive salary (depending on experience)
- 28 days annual leave plus bank holidays
- Generous annual bonus plan
- Membership of the Railways Pension Scheme, a Defined Benefit arrangement providing a pension for life and a lump sum on retirement based on service and salary
- 4x Life Assurance cover
- Health & Wellbeing
- Private Medical Insurance
- Employee assistance programme
- Health cash plan
- Eye care vouchers
- Flu vaccination
- Lifestyle
- Hybrid and flexible working
- 12 months full pay maternity leave
- 6 months full pay paternity leave
- Buy and sell holidays
- Give as you earn scheme
- Paid volunteering days
- Flexible half-day leave
- Electric vehicle leasing
- Cycle to work scheme
Next Steps
Please apply via the apply button or visit Careers by Friday 28th September 2026. Railpen is committed to creating an inclusive and diverse environment, we value diversity and welcome people from all backgrounds and walks of life.
Head of Finance Operations in London employer: Railpen
Railpen is an exceptional employer, offering a supportive and inclusive work culture that prioritises employee well-being and professional growth. With a competitive salary, generous benefits including a robust pension scheme, and a commitment to flexible working arrangements, employees can thrive in their roles while contributing to the meaningful mission of safeguarding the financial futures of the rail industry. Located in Darlington, this role provides a unique opportunity to be part of a team that values integrity and community, ensuring a rewarding career path for finance professionals.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Finance Operations in London
✨Tip Number 1: Tap Into Professional Networks
The finance world loves a good connection, so jump into industry-specific groups on platforms like LinkedIn where you can find discussions on financial controlling. Engaging in these communities can expose you to hidden job leads that aren't openly advertised!
✨Tip Number 2: Attend Finance Events and Conferences
Make it a mission to attend finance-related events and conferences, even virtual ones! This is a golden opportunity to network face-to-face with people from companies like Railpen. You never know who might be your next boss or a crucial contact!
✨Tip Number 3: Showcase Your Expertise
Consider writing articles or sharing insights related to financial controlling or industry trends. Publish these on platforms like LinkedIn to establish yourself as a knowledgeable player in the field. This not only increases your visibility but also catches the attention of recruiters from Railpen.
✨Tip Number 4: Apply Directly on Company Websites
Since you're going for a full-time gig, don't forget to keep an eye on the careers page of companies you're interested in, like Railpen. Many companies prefer candidates who apply through their website as it shows genuine interest and makes your application stand out!
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Finance Operations in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Numbers Game:In financial controlling, detail is everything! Make sure your CV showcases your proficiency with numbers—highlight any relevant experience in budgeting, forecasting, or working with financial software. Quantifying your past achievements will make you stand out, so don’t be shy about flaunting those impressive percentages or cost savings you've implemented.
Tailored Cover Letter is Key:Your cover letter is a chance to shine, especially for a full-time role. Use it to express your genuine interest in Railpen and the specific impact you hope to make in financial controlling. Mention any relevant qualifications or experiences that align with the company’s goals, and don’t forget to show that you're ready for a long-term commitment!
Certifications Matter:List relevant certifications such as ACCA or CIMA on your CV. These qualifications not only showcase your dedication to the field but also your technical competence in financial principles. If you have any ongoing training or courses, make sure to mention those as well to demonstrate your commitment to continual learning in financial controlling.
Don’t Overlook Soft Skills:While numbers are crucial, so are those soft skills! Financial controllers need strong communication and analytical reasoning abilities. We recommend embedding examples of these skills in your CV and cover letter, like how you’ve successfully delivered financial reports to stakeholders or collaborated with teams to improve processes. Let’s show Railpen how you can be a team player!
How to prepare for a job interview at Railpen
✨Brush Up on Technical Skills
Make sure you're comfortable with key financial concepts, especially around forecasting, budgeting, and variance analysis. Sometimes, interviewers may throw in technical questions or case studies, so practicing these types of scenarios will help you shine!
✨Showcase Your Financial Acumen
If you've had experience with specific financial software like SAP or Oracle, make it known! Be ready to discuss how you used these tools to improve processes or reporting, as this hands-on knowledge can really set you apart in a full-time role with Railpen.
✨Know Your Numbers
In full-time interviews, especially in financial controlling, be prepared for numerical reasoning tests or questions. Brush up on your mental maths and understand how to interpret and analyse financial statements on the spot, as this may come up during the assessment.
✨Connect with Company Goals
Familiarise yourself with Railpen's financial objectives and any recent developments. During the interview, try to weave your understanding of their business model and challenges into your answers—this shows your genuine interest and alignment with their goals!
