Director of Finance and Operations (Part-Time, Remote – UK)

Dartington Service Design Lab
Location: Remote (UK-based only), with occasional travel and optional co-working
Contract: Permanent, Part-Time (0.6 FTE / 21 hours per week)
Salary: £41,808 (pro rata of £69,080 FTE)
Start Date: Autumn 2025
Deadline: Refer to the Candidate Briefing Pack

About Dartington Service Design Lab

Dartington Service Design Lab is a national charity dedicated to transforming systems that support children and young people across the UK. Combining practical experience, cutting-edge evidence, and human-centred design, the Lab works to secure thriving futures for the next generation.

As the organisation enters an exciting phase of growth and strategic transformation, they are seeking a Director of Finance and Operations to join the Senior Leadership Team and play a key role in shaping their future impact.

Role Overview

This is a unique opportunity to lead Dartington’s operational and financial infrastructure. The successful candidate will guide the organisation’s core functions—finance, governance, HR, compliance, IT, and operations—ensuring systems and people are aligned with its mission.

The role requires a mix of strategic leadership and hands-on execution, with an emphasis on financial stewardship, team wellbeing, and equity-focused organisational development.

Key Responsibilities

Finance Leadership:
- Lead all financial planning and reporting
- Provide strategic financial advice to the CEO and Board
- Oversee budgeting, cash flow, and financial controls
- Ensure compliance with charity finance regulations
Operations & Governance:
- Lead on organisational policies and systems, including data protection and risk management
- Support governance functions, including Board reporting
- Manage infrastructure such as IT systems and procurement
People & Culture:
- Oversee HR processes, wellbeing strategies, and team support
- Contribute to the organisation’s culture of equity, flexibility, and collaboration
Senior Leadership & Strategy:
- Play a central role in shaping the Lab’s direction and performance
- Work closely with the CEO to manage organisational health and resilience

Candidate Profile

Essential Experience:

Significant experience in finance and operations leadership
Proven ability to work at both strategic and operational levels
Background in non-profit, social enterprise, consultancy, or mission-driven organisations
Experience engaging at Board and Executive levels

Skills & Attributes:

Strong values alignment with equity, anti-racism, and social justice
Excellent problem-solving, collaboration, and communication skills
Comfortable working remotely in a flexible, agile team
Skilled in financial reporting, planning, and compliance
Practical and proactive approach to organisational systems

Working Arrangements

Hours: 21 hours/week, flexible across 3–5 days
Remote-first: Team operates remotely, with optional use of co-working spaces and regular team meetups
Annual Leave: 30 days FTE (18 days pro rata)
Benefits: Pension scheme, co-working budget, enhanced flexible working

Equity & Salary Policy

Dartington Service Design Lab is committed to equity and fairness. In line with this, the organisation has a transparent salary structure and does not negotiate salary upon appointment. All roles follow a progression structure, with reviews every two years based on performance and affordability.

How to Apply

To learn more and apply, please consult the Candidate Briefing Pack (link not provided in original text). Shortlisted candidates will be contacted for further steps.

Note: The role is subject to an Enhanced DBS check and pre-employment screening.

To apply for this job please visit dsdl.homerun.co.