About IPSEA

IPSEA (Independent Provider of Special Education Advice) is a national charity that provides free and independent legal advice and support to families of children and young people with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND). Through advice, training, and legal casework, IPSEA helps families secure appropriate education, health, and social care support while advocating for improvements in the SEND system across England.

The Role

IPSEA is seeking a Head of Finance and Services to provide strategic leadership and operational oversight across the organization’s finance, human resources, and fundraising functions. Working as part of the senior leadership team, the postholder will play a key role in ensuring the charity’s long-term sustainability, operational effectiveness, and continued ability to deliver high-quality support services.

This role combines strategic planning with hands-on management, ensuring robust financial governance, effective people management systems, and successful fundraising operations that support IPSEA’s mission and growth.

Key Responsibilities

Financial Leadership and Governance

• Lead the development and implementation of financial strategies and plans
• Oversee budgeting, forecasting, financial reporting, and cash flow management
• Ensure compliance with charity, financial, and regulatory requirements
• Support trustees and senior leaders with financial analysis and decision-making
• Maintain strong financial controls and risk management processes

Human Resources and Organizational Services

• Provide leadership across HR functions and people management systems
• Support recruitment, retention, employee wellbeing, and workforce planning
• Ensure employment policies and procedures remain compliant and effective
• Promote a positive, inclusive, and high-performing organizational culture
• Oversee operational services that support organizational effectiveness

Fundraising and Income Development

• Oversee fundraising operations and income generation activities
• Support the development and monitoring of fundraising strategies
• Ensure fundraising processes and reporting requirements are effectively managed
• Work with colleagues to maximize sustainable income opportunities
• Monitor fundraising performance and compliance requirements

Strategic Leadership

• Contribute to organizational strategy and senior leadership decision-making
• Support long-term sustainability planning and organizational development
• Lead cross-functional projects and continuous improvement initiatives
• Build effective relationships with trustees, funders, partners, and stakeholders

Requirements

• Significant experience in senior finance and operational leadership roles
• Strong understanding of financial management, budgeting, and governance
• Experience overseeing HR and organizational services functions
• Knowledge of fundraising operations and income management
• Excellent leadership, strategic planning, and people management skills
• Ability to manage multiple priorities within a charitable or nonprofit environment
• Commitment to IPSEA’s mission and values

What They Offer

• Opportunity to join a respected national SEND charity
• Senior leadership role with strategic influence across the organization
• Meaningful work supporting children, young people, and families
• Collaborative and mission-driven working environment
• Opportunity to shape the future sustainability and growth of IPSEA

How to Apply

Applicants should download and complete the official application form provided in the recruitment pack.

Applications are submitted through IPSEA’s online application system. After clicking the Apply button, candidates will be asked to enter their personal details and upload their completed application form.

Applicants experiencing technical difficulties may email their completed application form directly to hr@ipsea.org.uk.