Interim Chief Executive - Stabilizing Leadership for Transition

Charity People; Greater London; Hybrid; GBP 156,000 - 234,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Hybrid and flexible working

Job summary

The Foundation is seeking an experienced Interim Chief Executive for an initial six‑month assignment, starting in early November 2026. Reporting to the Chair and Board of Trustees, you will provide calm, visible leadership and take day‑to‑day responsibility for operations, people and risk, with robust financial oversight.

We are looking for a credible leader who can maintain momentum, support the recruitment of a permanent CEO, and sustain key relationships with partners and stakeholders during

Qualifications

• Substantial experience as a Chief Executive, Interim Chief Executive or equivalent senior leader, including working closely with a Board or governing body.
• Practical financial acumen, with confidence overseeing controls, management information and payment approvals, and the ability to provide credible cover for a senior colleague.
• Experience of leading through transition, uncertainty or senior leadership change.
• The judgement to handle sensitive people matters with fairness and discretion.
• Excellent stakeholder management and communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Provide calm, visible leadership that reassures colleagues, partners and stakeholders, and maintains momentum across agreed programmes.
• Take day‑to‑day responsibility for operations, people and risk, with robust financial oversight including the review and authorisation of regular operational and other significant payments.
• Work with senior colleagues and the Chair to ensure financial and investment continuity, including cover arrangements during planned senior leave.
• Listen to colleagues and give Trustees an objective, confidential view of culture, capability and organisational effectiveness.
• Complete and embed an up‑to‑date Business Continuity Plan.
• Support the recruitment of the permanent Chief Executive and prepare a clear handover.
• Represent the Foundation externally and sustain key relationships with partners and stakeholders.

Skills

Executive leadership

Board communication

Financial oversight

Transitional leadership

Stakeholder management

Job description

The Foundation is seeking an experienced Interim Chief Executive for an initial six‑month assignment, starting in early November 2026. Reporting to the Chair and Board of Trustees, you will provide calm, visible leadership and take day‑to‑day responsibility for operations, people and risk, with robust financial oversight.

We are looking for a credible leader who can maintain momentum, support the recruitment of a permanent CEO, and sustain key relationships with partners and stakeholders during