Head of Finance Operations – Financial Services

About the role

Lead Finance Operations at a market‑leading specialist pension provider, delivering robust financial controls, operational excellence and outstanding customer outcomes. Reporting to the Operations Director, you will shape a high‑performing finance function within a regulated financial services environment.

Key responsibilities

• Lead and develop multiple Finance Operations teams across SIPP, Property and Pension Scheme finance.
• Drive operational excellence, efficiency and continuous improvement.
• Own the operational finance control framework.
• Ensure robust governance across payments, reconciliations, payroll and client‑money activities.
• Deliver meaningful management information and operational reporting.
• Lead automation and process‑improvement initiatives.
• Manage operational risk, audit actions and control effectiveness.
• Support the delivery of the long‑term operational strategy.

Required profile

• Significant experience leading Finance Operations, Financial Control or Operational Accounting functions within a regulated financial services environment.
• Strong knowledge of financial controls, reconciliations, banking operations and operational risk.
• Experience managing large operational teams and developing future leaders.
• Proven track record of driving process improvements and operational transformation.
• Excellent stakeholder management skills with the ability to influence senior stakeholders.
• Experience using management information to improve operational performance.
• Desirable: ACA, ACCA or CIMA qualification; SIPP, SSAS or broader pensions experience; knowledge of CASS and client‑money regulations; understanding of pension legislation and regulatory requirements.

Required skills