Finance Director

Description:

Theatre Royal Stratford East, one of London’s most vibrant and inclusive theatres, is seeking a talented and experienced Finance Director to play a pivotal role in the organisation’s strategic and financial planning. Working closely with the Executive Director, Senior Management Team, and Board of Trustees, the Finance Director will ensure the organisation’s financial sustainability and alignment with its artistic and community objectives.

This is a part-time, permanent position, working 3 days (24 hours) per week from the office. The successful candidate will lead the finance department, developing financial strategies, setting and monitoring performance targets, and providing critical financial insights to guide decision-making.

Key Responsibilities:

• Provide strategic leadership to the finance function, setting financial goals aligned with the organisation’s vision

• Prepare and manage annual budgets, monthly management accounts, and cash flow forecasts

• Ensure timely, accurate reporting to trustees, senior management, and external stakeholders

• Monitor and improve financial processes, ensuring compliance with legal and regulatory standards

• Support fundraising efforts and external reporting for grants and funders

• Oversee financial controls, audit processes, and risk management

• Collaborate closely with other departments to support financial literacy and accountability across the organisation

Candidate Requirements:

• Significant experience in senior financial management, ideally within the arts, nonprofit, charity, or public sector

• Proven track record in financial strategy, planning, and reporting

• Strong leadership and team management skills

• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills with the ability to explain complex financial matters to non-financial stakeholders

• Professional accounting qualification (e.g. ACA, ACCA, CIMA) preferred

• A commitment to the mission and values of Theatre Royal Stratford East

Terms & Benefits:

• Salary: £65,000–£70,000 per annum (pro rata), depending on experience

• Hours: 24 hours/week (3 days), typical office hours 10am–6pm

• Contract Type: Permanent, part-time

• Holidays: 30 days per annum including bank holidays (pro rata), increasing annually to a maximum of 33 days

• Probation Period: 6 months

• Notice Period: 6 months

• Pension: Up to 5% matched contribution after qualifying period

• Other Benefits:

  • Season ticket loan

  • Cycle to Work Scheme

  • Complimentary theatre tickets

  • Staff catering discount

  • Employee Assistance Programme (offering legal, debt, and counselling support)