Position

Director of Finance & Operations 90-110K pro rata - 55-65K

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.