Job Description
About us
We are a national charity dedicated to ensuring support and access to treatment for everyone living with leukodystrophy. These rare and often life-limiting conditions affect individuals and families in profound ways, and we are committed to ensuring that no one faces them alone.
Our work focuses on the shared challenges across all leukodystrophy conditions, bringing together those affected within a compassionate community of Tender Loving Care. Alongside providing support, we champion research, raise awareness among both the public and medical professionals, and collaborate with specialists and other rare disease charities to improve best practice across healthcare systems.
As we continue to develop and strengthen our impact, we are seeking an experienced and values-driven Chief Finance & Operations Officer to join our senior leadership team.
The role
This is a key leadership role within the organisation, responsible for ensuring strong financial stewardship, operational effectiveness, and regulatory compliance. Reporting to the CEO and working closely with the Board of Trustees, you will provide both strategic financial leadership and hands-on operational support.
This role will suit a qualified accountant who enjoys combining strategic oversight with practical involvement in the day-to-day realities of a small charity.
Please note that this is primarily an office-based role.
Key responsibilities
Finance & governance
- Lead on all aspects of financial management, reporting, and control
- Prepare management accounts, cashflow forecasts, budgets, and year-end statutory accounts
- Liaise with auditors/independent examiners
- Ensure compliance with Charity Commission and Companies House requirements
- Work closely with the CEO and Treasurer and support the Board of Trustees with clear financial reporting and advice
- Oversee payroll, gift-aid and financial policies
- Work within our current Sage desktop system and support the transition to a cloud-based finance system, which is being implemented at the start of our new financial year (July 2026).
Operations
- Oversee operational systems and processes to ensure efficiency and compliance
- Support HR administration and organisational policies
- Manage risk, insurance, and regulatory requirements
- Contribute to strategic planning and organisational development
- Be willing to engage in day-to-day operational matters as they arise
About you
We are looking for someone who:
- Is a fully qualified accountant (ACCA, ICAEW, or equivalent)
- Has proven experience in charity finance, including SORP and restricted funding
- Has experience working with trustees and senior leadership teams
- Is comfortable working both strategically and operationally
- Is hands-on, pragmatic, and solutions-focused
- Has excellent communication skills and the ability to explain financial information clearly to non-finance colleagues
- Is aligned with our mission and values
Experience in a small charity environment would be highly desirable.
Why join us?
- Opportunity to make a meaningful impact in a values-led organisation
- Senior leadership role with influence across the organisation
- Flexible working arrangements
- A collaborative and supportive working environment
