Chief Operating Officer (COO)
We are looking for an outstanding Chief Operating Officer to be based in our Birmingham office, with occasional UK travel – minimum 2 days per week in the office. Salary: £65-75K
Application closing date: 7 July 2025, for more information about the role email: [email protected]
Applications can be made via the Guardian website
Are you a strategic, people-focused leader ready to help shape the future of a purpose-driven organisation? The British Dietetic Association (BDA), the professional body and trade union for UK dietitians, is seeking an experienced Chief Operating Officer (COO) to join its Executive team.
About the Role:
As the COO, you will be responsible for overseeing the internal operations of the BDA, ensuring the smooth and effective running of departments including Marketing and Communications, Finance, HR, IT, Facilities, Governance and Membership. This is a pivotal leadership role reporting directly to the Chief Executive, deputising where required and ensuring the organisation meets its legal, contractual, financial and strategic objectives.
You’ll be both a strategic planner and an operational executor, with a direct influence on business planning, financial oversight, digital transformation, and staff development. You’ll lead and manage multifunctional teams and external partnerships with outsourced service providers, ensuring value, quality and compliance across all functions.
This is a great stepping stone to a CEO role.
Key Responsibilities
- Oversee day-to-day operations across Marketing and Communications, Finance, HR, IT, Facilities, Governance and Membership services.
- Direct and line manage Membership, Marketing and Communications, as well as Governance and Administration teams.
- Lead digital strategy and major IT/digital projects, working with outsourced providers.
- Serve as internal lead for governance functions, risk management, financial compliance and HR strategy.
- Manage budgeting and reporting processes, working closely with the Finance Audit & Risk Committee (FARC).
- Drive strategic planning and delivery of the annual business plan in collaboration with the senior leadership team.
- Champion organisational development, learning and inclusion, health and safety, and data protection compliance.
- Assisting the CEO in steering and supporting the strategic direction of the Board.
- Supporting and driving the initiatives of the BDA Strategic Plan 2024-34 and future-proofing the development of the organisation.
About You
We are looking for a confident, adaptable leader with a strong track record in operational leadership, ideally within a values-led or membership-based organisation.
Essential Experience and Skills
- Senior director-level leadership within complex organisations.
- Strong knowledge of marketing, membership services, HR legislation, financial governance, and risk management.
- Demonstrable experience of leading multidisciplinary teams, outsourced services and business planning.
- Proven ability to influence at Board level and collaborate across functions.
- Excellent communication, strategic thinking, and problem-solving skills.
- A demonstrable commitment to BDA’s members-focused values, EDI and sustainability.
Desirable
- Professional membership or qualification in a relevant field.
- Experience in the health, education or membership sectors.
- Familiarity with AI implementation, volunteer engagement, and major IT project delivery.
Why Join the BDA?
The BDA is the largest organisation of food and nutrition professionals in the UK, representing over 12,000 members. With a strong values base and a commitment to professional excellence, the BDA offers a meaningful opportunity to contribute to the health and wellbeing of communities across the UK.
You’ll be part of a passionate and expert leadership team, helping to grow the organisation’s influence, drive innovation and ensure operational excellence.
For more role details please contact: [email protected]