Head of Operations

Founded in 1869, The Building Societies Association (BSA) champions, represents and supports mutual lenders and deposit takers across the UK, specifically all 42 building societies, including two mutual owned banks, as well as 7 credit unions. It is highly respected for its representational advocacy to external bodies such as government departments and financial services regulators. As well as proactively campaigning on behalf of the sector, the BSA frequently responds to consultation papers and provides information and advisory services to its Members and Associates.

In addition to the BSA's 49 Members it has approximately 40 Associates (organisations which have an interest in the sector). The BSA is an unincorporated not-for-profit organisation.

The BSA currently has 27 staff in the areas of policy/representational lobbying, economics and research, external affairs, member communications, commercial activities and corporate services.

We are looking to recruit a Head of Operations to join the BSA's senior leadership team, in response to the existing jobholder's forthcoming retirement (in Summer 2025). Reporting to the Chief Executive, this is a challenging position with considerable responsibility and autonomy. The successful candidate will have principal responsibility for the BSA's finances, people (including talent development and working practices), property and operational efficiency, while also playing a key role in the overall strategic direction of the organisation.

The Role:

• Assist the Chief Executive in the delivery of the BSA's strategy and contribute to the overall leadership and strategy of the BSA.
• Manage the work of the team and oversee the BSA's recruitment, remuneration, performance management, succession planning and employee development.
• Lead on the development and implementation of HR policies and procedures ensuring that they comply with legislation and best practice.
• Manage the BSA's budgets, including budgeting, forecasting, financial reporting and cash flow management to ensure strong financial decision-making. Manage internal and external audits and Independent Examinations.
• Oversee all aspects of the office's maintenance, processes, policies and procedures including the property's lease, insurances, health & safety and security. Liaise with the landlord's agents and with professional advisers, and BSA Council, as necessary.
• Oversee the provision of advice and aggregate information on HR related matters to BSA members (including through webinars) and represent the views of members to external organisations.
• Attend BSA Council to present on areas of responsibility and act as Secretary to the BSA's Audit Committee and Remuneration & Nominations Committee, Financial Adviser to BS Trust Ltd and Director of BSA Property Limited.

The Candidate:

• Senior management experience with proven leadership skills, motivational and teamwork skills.
• Good proven knowledge of accounting principles, practices and principles and HR related issues and legislation.
• Articulate and confident in dealing with members and external stakeholders.
• Ability to deal with sensitive and confidential matters appropriately.
• Good verbal and written communication skills to effectively liaise with employees and stakeholders.
• Ability to take primary responsibility for particular major areas of policy work.
• Ability to work to strict deadlines with a self-motivated, flexible and proactive approach.
• Degree or equivalent level education.

The generous benefits package includes a group personal pension scheme, BUPA, life assurance and permanent health insurance. The starting salary will depend on the successful candidate's experience.

The BSA is committed to supporting a positive work-life balance for its employees and operates a hybrid working policy, enabling its staff to work from home for up to 50% of the time.

As an equal opportunities employer, the BSA is committed to the equal treatment of all current and prospective employees and does not condone discrimination on the basis of age, disability, sex, sexual orientation, pregnancy and maternity, race or ethnicity, religion or belief, gender identity, socio-economic group or marriage and civil partnership.

We aspire to create and support a diverse and inclusive workplace and strongly encourage suitably qualified applicants from a wide range of backgrounds to apply and join our organisation.

Closing date for applications is 7 February 2025.