Head of Finance & Resources - Dovecot Studios in Edinburgh

W&A is delighted to be partnering with Dovecot Studios to appoint a Head of Finance & Resources. This is a pivotal leadership role within the organisation, offering the opportunity to shape financial strategy and operational infrastructure while supporting one of Scotland’s most distinctive cultural institutions.

Dovecot is a landmark centre for contemporary art, craft and design located in the heart of Edinburgh. Built around one of the world’s leading tapestry studios, Dovecot collaborates with internationally renowned artists to create extraordinary artworks while delivering a vibrant programme of exhibitions, events and educational initiatives. With a heritage spanning more than a century, Dovecot continues to champion artistic collaboration, craftsmanship and cultural engagement, bringing contemporary creative practice to wider audiences through exhibitions, partnerships and public programmes.

As Head of Finance & Resources, you will be a key member of the Senior Management Team, working closely with the Director and Board to support the organisation’s strategic direction and long-term sustainability. This role combines strategic financial leadership with operational oversight, spanning governance, facilities, HR administration and organisational infrastructure. You will lead financial planning, reporting and compliance while supporting the business to grow commercial and charitable income.

• Lead financial management across the Dovecot group, including budgeting, forecasting and financial strategy
• Prepare annual budgets and produce quarterly management accounts with clear variance analysis and insights
• Support senior leadership and the Board with financial planning, performance monitoring and strategic decision-making
• Oversee accounting processes using SAGE, ensuring robust internal controls and accurate financial records
• Manage the annual audit process and liaise with auditors, advisers and regulatory bodies including OSCR and HMRC
• Oversee payroll, VAT returns, cashflow management and banking relationships
• Act as Company Secretary, supporting governance, board reporting and compliance obligations
• Provide financial appraisal for projects, funding applications and commercial initiatives
• Oversee facilities management, health & safety, IT services and operational infrastructure
• Support HR administration and the development of organisational policies and processes

• A CCAB qualified accountant, or qualified by experience with strong technical accounting knowledge
• Experienced in financial management, reporting and compliance, ideally within a charity, arts or not-for-profit organisation (although this is not essential)
• Familiar with charity accounting (SORP), VAT and regulatory requirements such as OSCR and HMRC (desirable)
• Comfortable working with SAGE and advanced Excel
• An excellent communicator who can present financial information clearly to senior stakeholders and non-financial colleagues
• Experienced in supporting governance processes and working with boards or trustees
• Organised, adaptable and able to manage multiple priorities in a collaborative and creative environment

37 days holiday including public holidays. Full-time role (40 hours per week). This is an onsite role in Edinburgh, with some flexibility depending on organisational and event requirements. A collaborative approach will be taken to working arrangements for the right candidate.

• Play a strategic leadership role within one of the world’s leading tapestry studios
• Contribute to an organisation with a century-long heritage of artistic collaboration and cultural impact
• Work closely with the Director, senior leadership team and the Board to shape financial and operational strategy
• Join a passionate team dedicated to bringing contemporary art and craft to wider audiences

To learn more or apply, please contact Andrea Green, Director at Wilkinson & Associates, for a private and confidential discussion: 0131 225 8030. Alternatively, submit your CV and we will be in touch. This role is retained. All CVs sent directly to Dovecot Studios or via agencies will be forwarded to W&A.