Managing Director, Enabling Domain

Overview

Based in Exeter with hybrid working options and relocation assistance considered, the Met Office seeks a seasoned executive to join as Managing Director of the Enabling Domain, a role that includes Chief Financial Officer responsibilities. This permanent, full-time position offers a total package of approximately £130,000 and entails strategic leadership across critical enabling functions supporting the organisation's mission to deliver trusted weather and climate science services nationally.

Key Responsibilities

• Serve as a Main Board and Executive Committee member, contributing to overall strategic direction alongside the CEO and other directors.
• Lead the Enabling Domain, encompassing financial management, commercial operations, people and culture, communications, portfolio delivery, governance, legal, internal audit, health & safety, security and cyber security, enterprise design, and corporate IT.
• Chair the Enabling Domain Board to guide strategic priorities and ensure efficient service delivery.
• Act as CFO, managing an annual turnover of around £300 million, a direct cost base near £100 million, and significant government funding and capital investment programmes approximating £100 million.
• Ensure compliance with public sector financial stewardship standards, governance, and risk management frameworks.
• Drive organisational transformation, continuous improvement, and embedding of a domain operating model to build a future-ready, integrated operation.
• Develop and maintain trusted senior-level relationships with government stakeholders, finance leaders, and external partners to support organisational objectives.

Candidate Profile

The ideal candidate brings extensive executive leadership experience within large, complex organisations, with proven CFO or equivalent roles showing financial accountability and operational oversight. Key attributes include adeptness in managing large corporate service functions, delivering financial performance and efficiencies, spearheading organisational change, strong communication and stakeholder engagement skills, and experience in governance and risk compliance, particularly within public-sector contexts.

Desirable qualifications and experience include knowledge of Managing Public Money and Government Functional Standards, oversight of major capital investments, expertise in technology or cyber security transformations, relevant professional financial qualifications, and familiarity with scientific or technology-driven environments.

Benefits and Working Conditions

• Competitive reward package totaling £130,000.
• Contribution towards a defined benefit pension scheme.
• Generous holiday allowance starting at 27.5 days plus bank holidays, increasing to 32.5 days after five years, with options to buy or sell leave days.
• Flexible hybrid working arrangements.
• Access to professional development opportunities.
• Potential relocation support.

Additional Information

The Met Office is a Great Place to Work UK certified organisation recognized on multiple best workplace lists focusing on technology and gender diversity. Commitment to fair recruitment, inclusivity, and disability confident hiring schemes are emphasized. Eligibility requires UK residency for security clearance and the ability to live and work in the UK.

Note on AI use in applications: The organisation permits AI tools for drafting or refining applications provided submissions reflect true personal experience and skills. Misrepresentation or plagiarism can lead to application withdrawal or disciplinary actions.