Finance and Business Operations Director

VAST Services (1920); United Kingdom; On-site; GBP 50,000 - 75,000; Full time

Job summary

A charitable organization in Stoke-on-Trent seeks a Finance & Business Operations Director to lead financial management and operational strategies. The role includes overseeing The Dudson Centre, ensuring compliance with regulations, and contributing to strategic planning. The ideal candidate will be a qualified accountant with leadership experience in the VCSE sector. Join a committed team fostering community engagement while enjoying a range of wellbeing perks. Applications should be submitted via CV and cover letter by midnight on January 30, 2026.

Benefits

Mortgage and pension advice

Virtual GP appointments

Comprehensive mental health support

Wellbeing programmes

Qualifications

• Significant experience in financial management and business operations in the VCSE sector.
• Knowledge of charity finance, governance, and compliance.
• Ability to travel locally and work occasional evenings/weekends.

Responsibilities

• Lead financial and operational strategy to ensure robust management.
• Oversee The Dudson Centre's operations and act as Company Secretary.
• Contribute to strategic planning and organizational development.

Skills

Financial management expertise

Leadership and strategic planning

Excellent communication skills

Problem-solving abilities

Education

Qualified accountant (ACA, ACCA, CIMA, etc.)

Job description

About Us

VAST is a registered charity dedicated to supporting and empowering the Voluntary, Community, and Social Enterprise (VCSE) sector in Stoke-on-Trent. We aim to foster strong local networks, strengthen community engagement, and build the capacity of local community groups.

The Role

As Finance & Business Operations Director, you will lead VAST s financial and operational strategy, ensuring robust financial management, effective HR and IT systems, and compliance with Health & Safety. You will oversee the efficient running and management of The Dudson Centre (a Grade II listed building), act as Company Secretary, and serve as the organisation s Money Laundering Reporting Officer.

This is a senior leadership role, contributing to strategic planning and organisational development while supporting VAST s day-to-day delivery. It s an exciting opportunity for someone who combines financial expertise with operational leadership and a commitment to community impact.

What We re Looking For

• Qualified accountant (ACA, ACCA, CIMA, etc)
  Significant experience in financial management and business operations in the VCSE sector.
• Strong leadership and strategic planning skills
  Knowledge of charity finance, governance, and compliance.
• Excellent communication and problem-solving abilities.
• Ability to travel locally and work occasional evenings/weekends.

Why join us

At VAST, we offer more than just a job. You ll be part of a team committed to helping communities thrive. We believe in equal opportunities and strive to create an inclusive work environment where everyone can succeed.

You will also have access to a range of wellbeing perks, including:

• Mortgage and pension advice.
• Virtual GP appointments and second medical opinions.
• Comprehensive mental health support
• Wellbeing programmes to support a healthy lifestyle.

To apply

Applications are accepted by CV and covering lettter only.

Closing date for applications is Midnight on Friday 30th January 2026.

Interviews will be held during February 2026

VAST is an equal opportunity employer and welcomes applications from all individuals, regardless of gender, race, ethnicity, religion, marital status, sexual orientation, age, or disability.