Head of Finance Part Time Arts Organisation London

Head of Finance (Part-Time) | Mission-Led Performing Arts Organisation | London

The Client

Harmonic are proud to be working with one of London's most respected arts organisations who are a bold, community-rooted institution with a long-standing reputation for producing ground-breaking creative work. With a rich legacy of championing new voices and reflecting the cultural diversity of the city, this organisation has become a vital part of London's creative landscape. From powerful mainstage productions to grassroots learning and participation programmes, its work has consistently pushed boundaries and connected meaningfully with audiences across generations.

Now entering an exciting new chapter under visionary leadership, the team is growing in both ambition and scale. With multi-year public funding secured and a packed season ahead, they're looking for a strategic Head of Finance to help shape the organisation's future, and someone who shares their passion for the arts and believes in the power of culture to bring people together.

The Role

This newly created part-time Head of Finance position (3 days/week) offers the chance to play a key role at both operational and strategic levels. Reporting into the Executive team, you'll lead the finance function across the group structure, supporting a small and capable team while also working closely with trustees and department heads.

You'll take ownership of budgeting, forecasting, and financial reporting, and act as a trusted business partner to senior leadership - helping translate complex financial data into clear, practical insight to inform decision-making across the organisation. It's a role with real influence, ideal for someone who thrives in purpose-led environments.

Responsibilities

• Lead on annual budgeting, three-year planning and cashflow forecasting
• Deliver clear, accurate monthly and quarterly reporting to the Executive team and Board
• Oversee all core financial operations, including statutory accounts, audit, VAT, gift aid and theatre tax relief claims
• Line-manage a small finance team, promoting a collaborative and high-performing working culture
• Maintain and improve financial systems, controls and policies across the organisation
• Review and sign off on contracts, payments and financial approvals
• Act as key liaison for external auditors, banks and funders
• Partner with department heads to monitor performance against budget and manage risk
• Stay abreast of relevant legislation, including charity SORP, VAT (including partial exemption), and public funding compliance
• Support long-term strategic planning and scenario modelling alongside the Executive team

What our client would like to see (required):

• Qualified or QBE accountant (ACA, ACCA, CIMA or equivalent)
• Experience leading a finance function within a charity or not-for-profit organisation
• Strong understanding of statutory reporting, audit and compliance within a group structure
• Excellent communication skills, with the ability to explain financial concepts to non-finance stakeholders
• Confident, collaborative and values-aligned

What we would like to see (preferred):

• Prior experience of working in the creative, cultural or public sector
• Experience of working in a part-time senior finance role

Start Date: Flexible

Location: London

Working Model: 3 days per week in-office

Salary: £65,000 - £70,000 pro rata + benefits including cycle to work scheme, complimentary event access, season ticket loan, and staff discounts

At Harmonic, we are dedicated to fostering an inclusive and equitable workplace. We actively welcome applications from individuals of all backgrounds and assure you that every candidate will be thoughtfully considered for the roles we represent, without regard to race, religion, gender expression, disability, or sexual orientation.

At Harmonic, we are dedicated to fostering an inclusive and equitable workplace. We actively welcome applications from individuals of all backgrounds and assure you that every candidate will be thoughtfully considered for the roles we represent, without regard to race, religion, gender expression, disability, or sexual orientation.