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- Tasks: Lead financial strategy and planning for a leading contemporary arts organisation.
- Company: Join Whitechapel Gallery, a vibrant hub for contemporary art in East London.
- Benefits: Be part of a diverse team with a commitment to equity and inclusion.
- Other info: Opportunity for impactful leadership at a pivotal moment in the Gallery's history.
- Why this job: Shape the future of a renowned gallery while influencing key decisions.
- Qualifications: Qualified accountant with senior-level experience; charity sector experience is a plus.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 80000 £ per year.
A gallery shaped by ideas, people and possibility. Whitechapel Gallery is a leading contemporary arts organisation in East London, committed to making art accessible to diverse audiences. As we approach our 125th anniversary, we are entering a period of renewed ambition, including a significant capital project and plans for the future of our building and operations. This is a pivotal moment, bringing both opportunity and complexity, requiring clear thinking and strong financial leadership.
We are seeking a Director of Finance to join us at this important stage. This is a senior leadership role, working closely with the Director, Director of Commerce and Business Transformation, Senior Management Team and Board of Trustees. You will shape financial strategy, support high-level decision-making and ensure the Gallery remains financially sustainable, well-governed and able to deliver its ambitions. The role combines strategic oversight with operational leadership, requiring sound judgement and the ability to work across a complex organisation.
You will lead the Gallery’s financial strategy and planning, ensuring robust budgeting, forecasting and cashflow management. You will provide clear financial insight to support senior decision-making and oversee high-quality reporting. You will ensure strong financial governance and compliance with Charity SORP, manage risk, and lead the annual audit. You will also oversee tax and regulatory matters, including VAT, PAYE and Gift Aid, and manage relationships with auditors, banks and funders. You will lead and develop the Finance Team, while supporting financial understanding across the organisation. As part of the senior leadership group, you will help shape priorities and ensure resources are aligned to deliver impact.
You will be a qualified accountant (ACA, ACCA, CIMA or equivalent) with senior-level experience. Experience in the charity or cultural sector is helpful but not essential. You will bring strong expertise in financial strategy, planning and governance, and be confident advising Boards or Trustees. You will be able to translate complex financial information into clear insight and build effective relationships across the organisation.
This is an opportunity to take on a key leadership role at an important point in the Gallery’s development. You will work closely with senior colleagues and Trustees, influencing strategy and supporting delivery across the organisation.
Whitechapel Gallery is committed to building a diverse and inclusive team and welcomes applications from people of all backgrounds and experiences. We value different perspectives and are committed to an accessible recruitment process. If you require adjustments, please let us know.
Send your CV and cover letter to: whitechapel@allenlane.co.uk by Sunday 17th May, midnight. For an informal conversation about the role, please reach out to our exclusive recruitment partner, Bryony Thomas, on 07921334625 / bryonythomas@allenlane.co.uk.
Financial Director in City of London employer: Whitechapel Gallery
Contact Detail:
Whitechapel Gallery Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Financial Director in City of London
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the arts and finance sectors. Attend events, join relevant groups, and don’t be shy about asking for introductions. You never know who might have the inside scoop on opportunities at places like Whitechapel Gallery.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for those interviews! Research the gallery’s recent projects and financial strategies. Be ready to discuss how your experience aligns with their goals, especially around financial governance and sustainability. Show them you’re not just a number cruncher but a strategic thinker.
✨Tip Number 3
Follow up after your interviews! A quick thank-you email can go a long way. Mention something specific from your conversation to remind them of your fit for the role. It shows you’re genuinely interested and keeps you top of mind.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining the team at Whitechapel Gallery. Let’s make this happen together!
We think you need these skills to ace Financial Director in City of London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV reflects the skills and experiences that align with the Financial Director role. Highlight your financial strategy expertise and any relevant leadership experience 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 the arts and how your financial acumen can help Whitechapel Gallery achieve its ambitious goals. Be genuine and let your personality come through!
Showcase Your Achievements: When detailing your past roles, focus on specific achievements that demonstrate your ability to lead financial strategy and governance. Numbers speak volumes, so include metrics where possible to illustrate your impact.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website for a smoother process. It helps us keep track of applications and ensures you don’t miss out on any important updates regarding your application status.
How to prepare for a job interview at Whitechapel Gallery
✨Know Your Numbers
As a Financial Director, you’ll need to demonstrate your financial acumen. Brush up on key financial metrics relevant to the gallery sector, such as budgeting, forecasting, and cash flow management. Be prepared to discuss how you've successfully managed these in previous roles.
✨Understand the Gallery's Mission
Familiarise yourself with Whitechapel Gallery’s mission and recent projects. Show that you understand how financial strategy aligns with their artistic goals. This will help you articulate how you can contribute to their ambitions and ensure financial sustainability.
✨Prepare for Governance Questions
Expect questions about financial governance and compliance, especially regarding Charity SORP. Think of examples from your past experience where you ensured strong governance and compliance, and be ready to discuss how you would approach these challenges at the gallery.
✨Build Relationships
Highlight your ability to build relationships across an organisation. Prepare examples of how you’ve effectively communicated complex financial information to non-financial stakeholders. This will show that you can support senior decision-making and foster financial understanding throughout the gallery.