Are you a strategic, people-oriented leader who is prepared to contribute to the future of a purpose-driven organization? The British Dietetic Association (BDA), the professional body and trade union for UK dietitians, is currently in search of an experienced Chief Operating Officer (COO) to join its Executive team.
Read Also: Security Guard Jobs in UK– Immediate Hiring
Job Details:
- Location: Birmingham, West Midlands (Minimum 2 days/week in office, occasional UK travel)
- Salary: £65,000 – £75,000
Introduction of British Dietetic Association:
The British Dietetic Association is the UK’s leading professional body and trade union for over 12,000 dietitians. We are dedicated to advancing nutrition science, influencing public health policy, and supporting our members’ professional development. Join our passionate leadership team to shape the future of food and nutrition in the UK and contribute to improving community wellbeing nationwide.
Role Information:
As Chief Operating Officer, you will play a pivotal role in overseeing the BDA’s internal operations, ensuring excellence across departments including Finance, HR, Marketing and Communications, IT, Facilities, Governance, and Membership Services. Reporting directly to the Chief Executive Officer (CEO), you will deputise when required and collaborate closely with the Board to meet the organisation’s strategic and operational goals.
This leadership position is an exciting opportunity for an experienced operational executive looking to make a meaningful impact within a values-driven membership organisation — and a strong stepping stone towards a future CEO role.
Key Responsibilities:
- Manage daily operations in the areas of Finance, HR, IT, Facilities, Governance, and Membership services, as well as Marketing and Communications.
- Direct and supervise the Governance and Administration, Marketing, and Communications divisions.
- Collaborate with outsourced providers to oversee significant IT/digital projects and digital strategy.
- Assume the role of internal leader for HR strategy, financial compliance, risk management, and governance functions.
- Collaborate with the Finance Audit & Risk Committee (FARC) to oversee budgeting and reporting procedures.
- Collaborate with the senior leadership team to facilitate the strategic planning and execution of the annual business plan.
- Encourage the promotion of organizational development, learning and inclusion, health and safety, and data protection compliance.
- Helping the CEO to guide and provide support for the Board’s strategic direction.
- Driving and supporting the BDA Strategic Plan initiatives and ensuring the organization’s future development.
Requirements:
Experience & Skills
- Senior director-level leadership experience in complex, values-led or membership organisations.
- Strong operational knowledge of marketing, membership services, HR legislation, financial governance, and risk management.
- Proven ability to lead multidisciplinary teams and manage outsourced partnerships.
- Excellent strategic planning, communication, and problem-solving skills.
- Experience influencing at Board level and collaborating across multiple departments.
- Demonstrable commitment to equality, diversity, and inclusion (EDI) principles aligned with BDA’s values.
Desirable
- Professional membership or qualification relevant to the role.
- Experience in health, education, or membership sectors.
- Familiarity with AI implementation, volunteer engagement, and delivering large-scale IT projects.
Benefits:
- Competitive Executive Salary
COO roles in England typically offer high six-figure salaries along with performance-based bonuses and incentives. - Leadership & Strategic Influence
Directly shape the operational direction of the organization and influence long-term growth and sustainability. - Career Prestige & Visibility
As a senior executive, the COO position brings significant professional recognition and industry credibility. - Opportunity for CEO Succession
Many COOs are positioned to step into CEO roles, making it a natural next step in executive career progression. - Dynamic Work Environment
Collaborate across departments—finance, HR, IT, operations—and manage cross-functional teams and projects. - Long-Term Job Stability
Established organizations offer COOs long-term contracts with security and high-level support infrastructure. - Comprehensive Benefits Package
Includes pension contributions, private healthcare, life insurance, paid leave, and relocation support in some roles. - Visa Sponsorship for International Candidates
Some UK employers offer visa sponsorship for highly skilled international executives. - Professional Development Opportunities
Access to executive training, leadership coaching, board development programs, and exclusive networks. - Work-Life Integration
Senior roles often provide hybrid or flexible working arrangements to promote executive well-being. - Influence in National or Global Policy
Depending on the organization, COOs may contribute to sector-wide strategies, industry innovation, or public policy impact.
Application Process:
To apply, please send your CV and a cover letter outlining your suitability for the role to simone@memcom.org.uk.
The recruitment process will include:
- Initial CV screening
- Competency-based interviews
- Final selection panel
References and background checks will be requested prior to appointment.
Equal Opportunity Statement:
The British Dietetic Association is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.
Further Information:
For a full application pack or to ask questions about this role, please email simone@memcom.org.uk.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Do I need to be based in London to get a COO job?
No. While London has a high concentration of executive opportunities, COO jobs are available across England, including in cities like Birmingham, Manchester, Leeds, Bristol, and Cambridge.
Are COO jobs in England open to international candidates?
Yes. Many UK organizations are open to hiring international executives, especially in sectors like healthcare, education, non-profits, and technology. Some employers offer visa sponsorship for qualified candidates under the UK Skilled Worker route.
What does a Chief Operating Officer (COO) do?
A Chief Operating Officer (COO) is responsible for overseeing the daily operations of an organization. They manage departments like HR, finance, marketing, IT, and facilities, ensuring the business runs efficiently and meets its strategic goals.
