Director of Finance and Operations

Summary A senior leadership opportunity to shape the operational strength, financial sustainability, and future growth of a mission-led education partnership. Ideal for a commercially astute, values-driven leader with strong finance expertise and the confidence to lead operations, governance, and organisational development in a collaborative, community-focused environment. The Role This is a pivotal Executive Team role combining finance, operations, and business development, with responsibility to: Provide strategic financial leadership and long-term financial planning Lead and strengthen organisational operations and infrastructure Support income diversification, new services, and sustainable growth Act as a key advisor to the CEO, Board, and senior stakeholders Main Duties Lead budgeting, forecasting, financial reporting, and compliance across the organisation Drive long-term financial planning, scenario modelling, and sustainability Oversee core operational functions including HR, communications, events, IT, and administration Strengthen governance, systems, and processes to improve efficiency and impact Support business development, funding bids, and new partnerships through robust financial insight The Successful Candidate A qualified accountant. Full member of ICAEW, ACCA, CIMA, CIPFA or equivalent. Strong strategic thinker with the ability to balance financial rigour with organisational mission Confident leader with experience improving systems, processes, and team performance Excellent communicator able to translate complex financial information for non-financial audiences Ideally experienced in education, public sector, charity, or membership-based organisations and with a strong commitment to improving outcomes for Tower Hamlets’ children. What’s on Offer? Salary: £73,266 - £78,090 per annum Location: Shoreditch, London (with flexible working) Benefits: 31 days annual leave plus bank holidays, local government pension scheme, Culture: Values-led, colla