Director of Finance & Operations- Charity Part-time

Position: Director of Finance & Operations

Location: London, UK

Type: Permanent Employee (3 days per week in London office )

We are looking for an experienced Director of finance to join a not-for-profit creative studio on a part time basis- 3 days a week.

A UK charity, that leverages science and creativity-across film, television, music, events, and more-to bring audiences closer to the wonder, fun, and beauty of the natural world.

Role Overview:

We are looking for a values-driven, detail-oriented, strategic thinker who thrives in a collaborative environment. This role is suited to a calm, pragmatic professional who leads by example, setting high standards for themselves and others. The successful candidate will need to be a natural team-player with excellent communication skills.

Key Responsibilities:

Finance

• Oversee all aspects of financial management, including budgeting, forecasting, management accounts, statutory reporting, and audit (with support from an outsourced provider)
• Provide strategic financial insight and advice to the CEO and Board of Trustees to support informed decision-making.
• Ensure robust financial controls and processes are in place
• Oversee the preparation and monitoring of project budgets, funding reports, and grant compliance.

HR

• Oversee all HR-related matters, including recruitment, on/offboarding, contracts, performance management, staff wellbeing, and organisational culture.
• Ensure HR policies are up-to-date, legally compliant, and aligned with our values and strategic goals.
• Support a positive and inclusive workplace culture where staff feel valued and supported

Operations

• Act as Company Secretary, ensuring compliance with all Companies House and Charity Commission requirements.
• Maintain and develop internal policies and procedures to support good governance, legal compliance, and effective operational delivery.
• Oversee office management for the London premises, including facilities, health & safety, and IT infrastructure.

Essential Skills and Experience:

• Significant experience in senior finance and operational roles, ideally within the charity or creative sectors (minimum of 10 years)
• A recognised accounting qualification (e.g. ACA, ACCA, CIMA) or equivalent professional experience
• A strong understanding of charity governance, company secretariat duties, and legal/regulatory compliance in the UK.
• Deep knowledge of HR best practice and fostering positive organisational culture
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to engage confidently with trustees, team members and external partners and suppliers
• A proactive, solutions-focused mindset and a genuine commitment to our mission

Benefits

• 28 days annual leave (pro-rata for part-time employees) + Bank holidays
• Private health insurance
• Pension contributions at 15%
• Bicycle scheme
• 3 days in the office which is based in South Kensington

Handle actively welcomes applicants from under-represented backgrounds - we pride ourselves on attracting the best talent for every opportunity through a commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion.