Chief Digital & Operations Leader

Start Network; Greater London; Hybrid; GBP 62,000 - 64,000; Full time

Job summary

Start Network is seeking a Head of Digital & Operations to guide the organisation's digital and operational systems from London, with hybrid working. You will oversee a scalable, compliant, user-centered technology and data roadmap, aligning programme teams, local hubs, and network members to deliver reliable support and resilience.

The role requires strategic leadership, strong governance, and collaboration with senior teams.

Qualifications

• Proven experience leading large-scale digital and operational transformations in complex organisations.
• Expertise in technology strategy development, cyber security, IT service management, and modern digital architecture.
• Strong ability to build data governance, reporting, and insight capabilities.
• Experience designing multi-geography operational frameworks, policies, and risk mitigation strategies.
• Track record in change management and coaching teams.

Responsibilities

• Strategic Leadership: Lead the Digital & Operations function, oversee its budget, sit on the Senior Management Group, and advise the Senior Leadership Team and Board Committees.
• Digital Strategy & Governance: Own the technology, data and digital strategy; oversee architecture, integrations, AI ethics, GDPR and cyber security.
• Operations & Resilience: Evolve operating model; oversee procurement, travel, security, facilities and business continuity.
• Programme Operations: Oversee operational support models for Start Fund, Start Ready and anticipatory action, with senior decision support on hosting and donor requirements.
• Team Management: Line-manage and develop a high-performing team with an inclusive, values-driven culture.
• Rota Responsibilities: Participate in weekend/holiday rota for programme delivery and on-call travel/security support.

Skills

Strategic leadership

Digital strategy

Cyber security

IT service management

Data governance

Change management

Stakeholder influence

Job description

Start Network is seeking a Head of Digital & Operations to guide the organisation's digital and operational systems from London, with hybrid working. You will oversee a scalable, compliant, user-centered technology and data roadmap, aligning programme teams, local hubs, and network members to deliver reliable support and resilience.

The role requires strategic leadership, strong governance, and collaboration with senior teams.