Interim COO

Are you a senior finance professional with experience leading operational teams through periods of change? Do you have the ability to provide stability, oversight and strong people leadership within a complex organisation? Are you confident supporting senior stakeholders while managing multiple corporate functions?

A large international not-for-profit organisation is seeking an Interim Chief Operating Officer to join on an initial 6-month contract during a key transitional period. This role will provide senior operational leadership across multiple corporate functions while supporting the finance team through an upcoming leadership change and wider operational review.

The role offers hybrid working, with two days per week in the Central London office. Applications are welcomed from candidates seeking either full-time hours or a 4-day-per-week arrangement.

Key responsibilities will include:

• Providing leadership and oversight across finance, technology, facilities and legal functions
• Managing and supporting several senior direct reports, ensuring teams remain motivated and focused during a period of change
• Supporting the finance function through the retirement of the current Head of Finance
• Working closely with the finance team to assess and prioritise recommendations from a recent operational review
• Helping determine which process and structural improvements should be implemented immediately versus deferred for the permanent appointment
• Acting as a trusted adviser to senior leadership, providing stability and sound judgement across operational matters
• Ensuring effective communication and collaboration across a complex international organisation

The successful candidate will have:

• Significant senior leadership experience within a complex organisation
• Ideally be a Chartered Accountant (ACA, ACCA, CIMA or equivalent)
• Strong people management skills, with experience leading senior multidisciplinary teams
• A calm, measured and approachable leadership style
• The ability to operate confidently within fast-moving and politically nuanced environments
• Strong emotional intelligence and the ability to build credibility quickly with a wide range of stakeholders
• Experience within the not-for-profit sector would be advantageous

This is an excellent opportunity for an experienced interim leader to provide stability, direction and operational oversight within a high-profile international organisation during a significant period of transition.