We are passionate about inspiring audiences through science and innovation, and we are looking for a dynamic leader to drive our finances to support our organisations long term objectives.Edinburgh Science is a world leader in creative science content and festival management, renowned for delivering high-quality events both locally and internationally.We are best known for organising Edinburgh’s annual Science Festival – the world’s first public celebration of science and technology as a festival – as well as our science education outreach programmes, Generation Science and Careers Hive and our community engagement work. An increasing worldwide element shares our content, passion and expertise more widely through an extensive portfolio of international collaborations and projects.We are passionate about inspiring audiences through science and innovation, and we are looking for a dynamic leader to drive our sales and marketing efforts to new heights.About the role:The Director of Finance is a key member of the senior leadership team, responsible for ensuring the financial health, sustainability, and compliance of Edinburgh Science.This role provides strategic financial leadership, overseeing financial planning, governance, risk management, and operational efficiency across all areas of the organisation. The Director of Finance will work closely with the Board of Trustees, Senior Leadership Team, and external stakeholders, supporting informed decision-making while driving a culture of financial accountability and commercial awareness throughout the organisation.With a diverse income portfolio—including grants, sponsorships, commercial partnerships, and commissioned work—this role plays a critical part in maximising financial performance and ensuring long-term resilience for Edinburgh Science’s local and international programmes.View the full job description here: Director of FinanceKey Responsibilities:Financial Strategy & Planning: Lead on financial strategy, long-term sustainability planning, and budget forecasting to support organisational growth.Governance & Risk Management: Ensure compliance with charity financial regulations, oversee audits, and manage financial risk.Financial Operations & Controls: Maintain robust financial management systems, ensuring accurate reporting, cash flow control, and cost efficiency.Commercial & Business Development: Support revenue generation through commercial projects, pricing models, and cost-benefit analysis.Contracts, Grants & Sponsorship Oversight: Manage financial aspects of funding agreements, ensuring compliance, reporting, and sustainability.Stakeholder & Team Leadership: Advise the Board, collaborate with leadership, and oversee financial aspects of operational and HR planning.Key requirements:EssentialAccounting qualification (ACCA, CIMA, or equivalent) or extensive proven financial experience.Senior finance leadership experience, ideally in a charity, cultural, or international organisation.A commercial mindset, with experience in financial modelling for income-generating activities.Strong expertise in financial strategy, budgeting, forecasting, and risk management.Proven ability to embed business planning into operational and programme teams.Experience in contract and funding agreement oversight, ensuring financial compliance.Excellent ability to present financial insights to non-finance stakeholders, including Boards and funders.Strong problem-solving, analytical, and communication skills, with an eye for operational efficiency.DesirableExperience in fundraising finance, commercialisation, or financial planning for commissioned work.Familiarity with accounting software (e.g., Sage).Knowledge of international financial operations and multi-currency budgeting.What We Offer:Competitive salary and benefits package.Opportunities for international travel.A vibrant and supportive work environment.The chance to lead a passionate team and make a global impact., None specified

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Edinburgh International Science Festival, founded in 1989, is an educational charity that encourages people of all ages and backgrounds to discover the wonder of the world around them.