The Royal Society of Arts is the home of creativity for the common good. Since 1754 it has championed ingenuity and innovation and turned possibility into progress. From pioneering invention and design to shaping social change, we are a place for action and connection, where the brilliance of people drives change. And today, this organisation is more vital than ever.
The Opportunity
We are seeking an outstanding Head of Finance / Finance Director to lead our finance function and play a key role in shaping the future of the RSA. Reporting to the executive leadership team, you will lead a small, high-performing finance team while providing strategic financial leadership across the organisation.
This role is based at RSA House in London for at least three days per week, with hybrid flexibility for the remaining days.
What You'll Do
Strategic Finance & Commercial Partnering
- Act as a trusted adviser to the Executive Team, providing financial insight and analysis to support strategic decisions.
- Partner with leaders across the organisation to improve financial performance and support delivery of business priorities.
- Develop robust financial plans, budgets and forecasts that facilitate informed investment and resource allocation decisions.
- Produce business cases, investment appraisals and financial models to evaluate opportunities and support income generation initiatives.
- Identify opportunities to strengthen financial performance and grow sustainable income across both charitable and commercial activities.
- Foster a collaborative culture where finance is viewed as an enabling and trusted business partner.
Financial Reporting & Planning
- Lead all aspects of financial management, reporting and statutory accounting for the charity and its trading subsidiaries.
- Deliver accurate, timely and insightful management information that supports effective decision-making.
- Oversee cash flow forecasting, treasury management and long-term financial sustainability.
- Manage the annual budgeting, forecasting and year-end reporting processes.
- Provide clear financial analysis and performance reporting to senior stakeholders.
Financial Control, Governance & Risk
- Maintain robust financial controls and ensure compliance with relevant accounting standards, charity regulations and company legislation.
- Provide expert financial advice and insight to the Board, Audit & Risk Committee and Executive Team.
- Ensure effective identification and management of financial risks, while maintaining strong internal control frameworks.
- Lead statutory reporting, tax compliance and external audit activities.
- Support effective governance through high-quality reporting and financial oversight.
Systems & Continuous Improvement
- Continue the development and modernisation of the finance function, identifying opportunities to improve systems, reporting and processes.
- Leverage technology, automation and data insights to enhance efficiency and decision-making.
- Develop accessible and meaningful reporting that enables leaders to quickly understand performance and trends.
- Promote a culture of continuous improvement, innovation and best practice across the finance team.
Leadership
- Lead, coach and develop a high-performing finance team.
- Create an inclusive environment where colleagues feel supported, challenged and empowered to grow their careers.
- Build strong relationships across the organisation and establish yourself as a trusted and approachable partner.
- Champion collaboration, accountability and excellence within the team and across the RSA.
Who You Are
You are a strategic and commercially minded finance leader who combines strong technical expertise with a collaborative and practical approach. You are equally comfortable influencing organisational strategy and delivering operational excellence.
You will:
- Balance strategic thinking with hands-on delivery.
- Demonstrate strong commercial awareness and financial expertise.
- Be naturally curious, analytical and solution-focused.
- Communicate complex financial information clearly to non-finance audiences.
- Build credibility and influence through strong stakeholder relationships.
- Thrive in a changing environment and enjoy improving processes and ways of working.
- Be committed to using sound financial stewardship to maximise charitable impact.
Your Key Experience
- Fully qualified accountant (ACA, ACCA, CIMA or equivalent).
- Significant experience leading, or playing a senior leadership role within, a finance function.
- Proven experience partnering with senior stakeholders and influencing strategic decision-making.
- Strong understanding of financial planning, reporting, governance and risk management.
- Experience driving financial and operational improvement through effective systems, processes and controls.
- Demonstrated ability to lead, motivate and develop high-performing teams.
Apply
In order to apply, please click ‘quick apply’ on our recruitment page and submit your CV. You will also be required to answer a series of questions. You do not need to submit a cover letter.
The closing date for receipt of applications is 10 September 2026. However, screening and interviews will be ongoing, so we may close the vacancy early if sufficient exceptional candidates apply. Please get your application in as soon as possible.
Please note that we cannot accept late, incomplete applications, and we can only consider candidates who apply through the online application process.
Inclusion Statement
As a social change organisation, we believe everyone, regardless of visible or invisible difference should feel welcomed and able to contribute to creating a better future. You can read our full inclusion statement on our website.
Please let us know if you require any reasonable adjustments or accommodations.
