Lead the operations, governance and compliance that enable Solving Kids’ Cancer UK to deliver its mission and impact for children and families affected by neuroblastoma.
Reporting to the Chief Executive, the Operations Director plays a critical role in ensuring the charity operates effectively, compliantly, and sustainably.
The role leads across governance, risk, HR, IT, data protection and organisational operations, supporting delivery of the charity’s strategy through robust systems, policies and processes. Acting as Company Secretary, the postholder works closely with the Board of Trustees and CEO, providing advice on governance, regulatory requirements and best practice.
As part of the Leadership Team, the Operations Director oversees key operational functions, leads cross-organisational projects, and deputises for the CEO where required.
Who are we looking for?
We are looking for a strategic, highly organised and values-driven leader with strong experience in charity operations, governance and compliance.
You will bring a track record of ensuring organisations are well-run, compliant and effectively managed, with the ability to oversee multiple operational areas and support strong governance and decision-making at Board level.
You will be comfortable working across a broad remit, including governance, risk, HR, IT and data protection, and confident supporting senior leaders and trustees with clear, practical advice.
Person specification:
We’re looking for someone who brings a strong mix of operational, governance and leadership experience. While not exhaustive, key aspects include:
- Significant senior-level experience in operations, governance or compliance within a charity or similar environment
- Strong understanding of charity governance and regulation, with experience supporting boards and senior leadership
- Experience overseeing core organisational functions such as HR, IT, data protection or risk
- Proven ability to manage multiple priorities and deliver cross-organisational work effectively
- Strong judgement, integrity and the ability to handle sensitive matters with discretion
This is a broad and varied role at the heart of a small, ambitious charity, where strong operations are a key enabler of the organisation delivering its aims for children and families.
See our Recruitment Pack for the full role description and specification and for information about the charity: https://www.solvingkidscancer.org.uk/jobs/operations-director-maternity-cover/
If you have any specific queries related to this position or would like an informal conversation prior to applying, you can contact Claire Hislop, Operations Director on 0203 869 1125 or via email [email protected]
Key role information
Salary: c.£60,000
Location: Home-based, within easy reach of London, with regular travel to the London office and occasional UK-wide travel.
Hours: Full time, 35 hours per week (flexible working options considered)
Closing date: Tuesday 28 July, midnight
Start date: End of Sept (ideally)
What we offer
- Home-based and informal flexible working
- 5% employer pension contribution, with option to increase contributions matched by the charity up to 2%
- 32 days holiday (inclusive of bank holidays) with the opportunity to buy additional leave
- Temporary overseas working (up to 20 days per year with a maximum of 10 working days at any one time)
- 24/7 confidential helplines for counselling, legal and tax advice
- Charity-funded Health Cash Plan with the option to add up to four children (at no extra cost) and a partner (at an additional cost) (taxable benefit)
- Life assurance (lump sum payment of 4-times salary) under charity’s group policy
- Access to Spark Health and Wellbeing App
- Wellbeing check-ins with manager and optional Wellbeing Action Plan
- Wellbeing communications and optional virtual breaks and wellbeing activities
- Regular staff surveys to share feedback and suggestions
- Opportunities to meet in person with colleagues
- Training and professional development opportunities
Apply for the role
If you would like to apply for the Operations Director (maternity cover) role, please complete and submit an Application Form highlighting how you meet the role specification and why you would like the role in the Supporting Statement. Please do not send your CV – we do not accept CVs by way of application.
We would also ask you to complete and return an anonymous diversity monitoring form. The information contained in the questionnaire will be treated as confidential and will be used by us to monitor and drive work towards our diversity and inclusion commitments.
You can access both forms via the Solving Kids' Cancer UK website at: https://www.solvingkidscancer.org.uk/jobs/operations-director-maternity-cover/
Please return your completed application form to Georgina Clark, Charity Services Manager, via [email protected].
If there are any adjustments that would help you engage with the recruitment process, please let us know.
Recruitment timetable
Closing date: Tuesday 28 July, midnight
Shortlisting: Wednesday 29 July
First interviews: Thursday 6 August
Second interviews: Thursday 13 August
Safeguarding: As a safeguarding charity whose work and practice are underpinned by safeguarding principles to protect children and young people and enhance their welfare, we always work in accordance with legislation, statutory guidance, and best safeguarding practices. All our roles require a basic criminal record check.
Promoting equality and diversity: We actively encourage applications from those with lived experience of neuroblastoma and/or other childhood cancers. As an equal opportunity employer, we also welcome applications from all suitably qualified candidates, regardless of age, disability, gender, gender reassignment, marriage/civil partnership, pregnancy, maternity, race, religion or belief, sex, or sexual orientation.
Pay: £60,000.00 per year
Benefits:
- Bereavement leave
- Company pension
- Enhanced maternity leave
- Enhanced paternity leave
- Health & wellbeing programme
- Life insurance
- Sick pay
- Work from home
Work Location: Hybrid remote in London EC2M 7AQ
