Job Opportunity: Chief Operating Officer (COO) British Dietetic Association (BDA)Apply below after reading through all the details and supporting information regarding this job opportunity. Location: Birmingham, with occasional UK travel minimum 2 days per week in the office Closing Date: 7th July 2025 Salary: 65-75k For a full application pack, apply below or email simone@memcom.org.ukAre 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 RoleAs 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.Youll be both a strategic planner and an operational executor, with a direct influence on business planning, financial oversight, digital transformation, and staff development. Youll 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 ResponsibilitiesOversee 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 YouWe 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 SkillsSenior 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 BDAs members-focused values, EDI and sustainability.DesirableProfessional 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.Youll be part of a passionate and expert leadership team, helping to grow the organisations influence, drive innovation and ensure operational excellence.
Job Title
Chief Operating Officer