Director of Finance and Operations

Job Description

Purpose of the roleThe Director of Finance and Operations is a newly defined strategic role with leadership and management responsibilities for the finance, property and administration teams.You will ensure excellent professional standards and productivity; enabling the CEO to lead the organisation through its next phase of development and growth.Working closely with the CEO, you will contribute financial information and ideas to business plans, funding applications and proposals including capital developments, regeneration projects, creative programmes and other commercial opportunities.As a key member of a small but growing leadership team you will be responsible for the delivery of important objectives focused on the profitability and capacity building critical to achieving our business aims.The opportunityACAVA is undertaking a wide-ranging organisational change process as we reimagine our purpose to meet evolving cultural, economic and social contexts and pursue several emerging business opportunities.The Director of Finance and Operations role creates a unique opportunity to influence the evolution of a leading cultural organisation with enormous potential at a moment of urgent social and cultural need.If you have the drive to lead, confidence to influence and you are passionate about our purpose, this could be the role for you.Main tasks and responsibilitiesFinanceConfidently lead on all aspects of financial planning, management, reporting and compliance.Ensure effective systems and controls are in place that safeguard the management of company finances.Lead the development of robust financial processes and procedures that prioritise efficiency, profitability and financial stability.Lead the relationship with our external management accountants and ensure the timely preparation of reports for the CEO, trustees and auditors.Lead relationship management and negotiations with our bank to renew and/or extend banking facilities.Analyse and improve financial performance through robust cost control, pricing policies and income generation to consolidate financial stability.Contribute financial information and ideas to business plans, business pitches, fundraising applications and other projects as required.Ensure grant income is disbursed according to award requirements, oversee accurate records and reporting to funders.Develop and regularly review company and departmental budgets.Produce accurate quarterly management accounts including P&L, balance sheet and cash flow forecasts for the CEO, subcommittees and board.Prepare regular comprehensive financial analyses highlighting risks and identifying opportunities for improving financial performance.Oversee the smooth completion of the annual audit liaising closely with our auditors and accountants.Assess the financial capabilities of relevant staff and identify training needs where necessary.Support the CEO with financial forecasts and business modelling.Communicate and negotiate with senior stakeholders on finance, property and business development matters.PropertyLead the management and operation of the property portfolio to ensure compliance with legal, health and safety and other requirements.Develop a strategic plan for the estate, projecting future costs and benefits and provide analyses to inform business decisions.With the CEO, assess the financial viability of individual buildings and develop a strategy to address underperforming sites.Lead the oversight, negotiation and renewal of leases.Develop a building-by-building strategy for business rates.Produce detailed income and expenditure budgets for individual buildings that aim to generate a financial surplus.Assess the untapped income generating potential of buildings; maximise efficient use of all spaces and identify opportunities for additional income.Establish sound processes/policies that produce consistent income from studio licence fees and introduce a fair transparent system of utilities recharging.Oversee excellent health and safety standards at all buildings.Oversee cost effective planned programmes of property maintenance that sustain high quality workspaces and facilities.Administration and HRLead and inspire your teams setting challenging and enriching objectives.Oversee the efficient professional administration of the company.Provide thought leadership to ensure best practice including a commitment to diversity, equality and inclusion in all of our work.Direct HR processes including recruitment, contracts, staff development and disciplinary.Oversee efficient studio allocation processes that minimise voids and maintain high occupancy.Secure value for money in all aspects of ACAVAs work and ensure that contracted services are fit for purpose.Act as data controller ensuring compliance with GDPR regulations and undertake regular compliance reviews.Maintain oversight of essential policies and ensure they are kept up to date.GovernanceSupport the CEO and trustees to deliver governance of the highest standards.In consultation with the CEO, support board development through trustee recruitment, induction, training and succession.Act as Company Secretary ensuring statutory requirements are met.Ensure compliance with Charity Commission guidance and regulations.Contribute to the delivery of ACAVAs charitable purpose and carry out other duties as may reasonably be required by the CEO or board.For more information or to apply for this role, please visit our website: