Director of Finance

Our Culture and Values
At the Horniman, our values are central to how we work and the culture we expect all colleagues to contribute to. We are a highly collaborative, values-driven organisation, and success in this role will depend on building strong and effective working relationships across the organisation.
We are looking for a leader who demonstrates our values of Caring, Friendly, Respectful, and Inclusive, and who works in a collegiate and collaborative way with colleagues at all levels, including the Senior Management Team and Board.
We particularly welcome candidates who are committed to equity, diversity and inclusion and who thrive in values-led environments.

About Us
The Horniman Museum and Gardens is a unique attraction in south east London where global cultures and the natural world are brought together for everyone to enjoy. The Museum holds internationally important collections of anthropology and musical instruments, as well as a popular natural history gallery and Aquarium. The 16 acres of beautiful Gardens feature a tropical Butterfly House and offer stunning views across London.

About the Role
We are seeking an experienced senior finance leader to join our Senior Management Team as Director of Finance. This is a key role responsible for financial strategy, governance, risk management, and compliance.
You will work closely with the CEO, Board of Trustees, and senior colleagues to ensure strong financial control, sustainable planning, and effective decision-making.
You will also act as Company Secretary to the Horniman Public Museum and Public Park Trust.

Key Responsibilities
• Lead financial strategy, planning, and financial management
• Ensure strong financial controls, reporting, governance, and compliance
• Provide clear financial advice to the CEO, SMT, Board, and committees
• Oversee budgeting, forecasting, cash flow, accounts, payroll, and audit processes
• Manage risk, reserves, and investment policies
• Act as Company Secretary to the Horniman Public Museum and Public Park Trust
• Contribute to SMT decision-making and organisational leadership
• Support improvements in financial processes, procurement, and value for money

About You
We are looking for a qualified finance professional with significant senior-level experience, ideally in the charity or public sector.
You will bring:
• Strong experience in financial leadership, planning, and governance
• Experience managing teams, budgets, and financial systems
• Excellent communication skills and ability to explain complex financial information
• Strong understanding of audit, compliance, and risk management
• Experience working at senior leadership or Board level
• Commitment to equity, diversity, inclusion, and collaborative working

• Closing Date for Applications: 10am on Monday 29 June 2026
• First interviews: 22 - 24 July 2026

The Horniman is an equal opportunities employer, and we value and celebrate diversity. We want to better represent the communities in which we work and warmly welcome applications from all backgrounds, particularly from communities that are traditionally underrepresented or disadvantaged in society.

Museum Website: http://www.horniman.ac.uk/about/jobs