Chief Operating Officer (COO) - 6 months FTC
Executive Leadership | Public Sector
đź“Ť Swindon -based | Executive-level package | Confidential search
We’re supporting a confidential search for a Chief Operating Officer (COO) to join a values-led organisation operating in the public sector space.
This is a senior executive appointment, reporting directly to the CEO and sitting on the Executive Leadership Team. The role carries significant strategic and operational influence, with responsibility for ensuring the organisation is financially sustainable, operationally strong and well positioned for future growth.
The COO role also incorporates Chief Financial Officer-level responsibility, providing leadership across finance, operations, estates, ICT and people functions.
The opportunity
This is a broad, impactful leadership role suited to an experienced executive who enjoys working at both strategic and operational level. The successful candidate will play a central role in enabling excellent outcomes by ensuring that the organisation’s infrastructure, resources and systems fully support its mission and long-term objectives.
Key responsibilities
Strategic leadership & organisational development
* Contribute to and help deliver the organisation’s vision, mission and long-term strategy
* Lead the development of central services to support growth, performance and continuous improvement
* Support organisational expansion, including due diligence and onboarding of new provisions
* Lead and embed a strong values-driven culture
* Identify, assess and mitigate organisational and operational risks
Finance & commercial leadership
* Hold overall accountability for financial health, sustainability and compliance
* Lead budgeting, financial planning, forecasting and long-term financial strategy
* Ensure accurate, timely reporting to the Board and senior stakeholders
* Oversee financial controls, audit, statutory compliance and regulatory requirements
* Support income generation strategies, including grants and other funding streams
Operations, estates & ICT
* Provide executive oversight of estates, facilities, ICT and operational services
* Ensure contracts deliver value for money and are fit for purpose
* Lead capital projects, maintenance planning and investment decisions
* Ensure systems and infrastructure support organisational and operational needs
People, culture & resourcing
* Oversee people strategy, organisational design and workforce planning
* Ensure compliance with employment law and evolving legislation
* Lead senior people and culture professionals, including payroll oversight
* Support leadership capability, succession planning and talent development
Governance & stakeholder engagement
* Provide high-quality reporting and insight to the Board and leadership team
* Act as a senior ambassador externally, building relationships and sector presence
* Support effective governance, assurance and compliance frameworks
About you
You are likely to bring:
* Significant experience in a senior executive or director-level finance and/or COO role
* A strong track record of financial leadership, operational delivery and strategic planning
* Experience within public sector, charity, education or similarly regulated environments
* Excellent understanding of governance, compliance and risk management
* Confidence operating at Board and Executive level with a collaborative leadership style
A recognised accountancy qualification (ACA, ACCA, CIMA, CIPFA or equivalent) will be highly advantageous.
Why consider this role?
* True executive-level influence and visibility
* Broad remit with real strategic scope
* Values-led, mission-driven organisation
* Opportunity to make a lasting impact at scale
đź“© Interested?
This role is being handled on a confidential basis. For an informal, discreet discussion, please contact Anneka Wilkins at Wilkins Talent Solutions.
#J-18808-Ljbffr