Chief Executive Officer

Role Specification:

Chief Executive Officer Job Title: Chief Executive Officer (CEO)

Reports to: Board of Directors

Location: Chester

Contract: Full-time

Salary: £40,000 - £45,000 based on experience.

Purpose of the Role

The Chief Executive Officer will lead the Credit Union through a period of growth and change, responsible for the business plan and strategic direction in collaboration with the Board. Ensure West Cheshire Credit Union continues to deliver ethical, accessible, and high-quality financial services to its members. Responsible for the leadership, management and motivation of the existing team which consists of ten members of staff.

The CEO will drive sustainable growth, uphold strong governance, and ensure the Credit Union remains resilient, member focused, aligned with cooperative / mutual values. Key Responsibilities

1. Strategic Leadership Develop, communicate, and deliver the Credit Union's business plan in collaboration with the Board. Identify emerging opportunities and risks, ensuring the organisation stays agile and future focused. Lead the evolution of services, including digital transformation and member experience improvements. Responsible for the commercial success of the Credit Union, it's year on year Business Plan and Profit and Loss.

2. Governance & Compliance Ensure full compliance with all regulatory requirements, including those of the PRA, FCA, and other governing bodies. Maintain a strong governance culture, ensuring policies, processes, and internal controls are robust and fit for purpose. Provide timely, accurate reports to the Board and support informed decision-making.

3. Financial Management Oversee the financial health of the Credit Union, ensuring sustainable growth, prudent budgeting, and effective risk management. Ensure member funds are safeguarded and used responsibly in line with mutual principles

Lead on financial planning, forecasting, and performance monitoring.

1. Operational & Organisational Leadership Manage day-to-day operations to ensure efficiency, quality, and consistency across all services. Lead, motivate, and develop staff and volunteers, cultivating an inclusive, positive, and highperforming culture. Ensure systems, processes, and technologies support modern, secure, and member-focused service delivery.

2. Member & Community Engagement Responsible for the establishment and maintenance of all external stakeholders including local authorities, charities, commercial partners and any other stakeholders. Strengthen community partnerships, working with local organisations, employers, and stakeholders to expand reach and impact. Act as a credible ambassador for West Cheshire Credit Union.

3. Growth & Development Drive membership growth and develop new products or services that support financial wellbeing. Explore partnerships, funding opportunities, and innovations that expand organisational sustainability. Lead marketing, communications, and outreach efforts to enhance visibility and trust.

Person Specification:

Chief Executive Officer West Cheshire Credit Union

Essential Criteria

Qualifications & Knowledge Degree-level education or equivalent senior leadership experience.

Strong understanding of financial management, budgeting, and organisational performance.

Knowledge of governance, regulatory compliance, and risk management, ideally within a regulated environment.

Understanding of ethical finance, mutual principles, or community focused service delivery.

Experience

Proven track record in a senior leadership role, managing teams and organisational performance. Experience of developing and delivering strategic plans. Demonstrable experience working with Boards or governing bodies.

Experience in leading organisational change, improvement, or modernisation projects.

Experience in building external partnerships and representing an organisation publicly.

Skills & Competencies

Strong strategic thinking and decision making skills.

Excellent communication, interpersonal, and stakeholder management abilities.

Ability to inspire, motivate, and develop staff and volunteers.

Strong sense and understanding of face to face sales skills. Proven problem solving skills and the ability to manage complex issues.

High level of financial literacy and data driven decision making.

Ability to maintain confidentiality, operate with integrity, and handle sensitive situations.

Personal Attributes

Commitment to the values of credit unions and ethical financial services. Member focused mindset with an understanding of community needs. Resilience, adaptability, and a calm approach under pressure. Proactive, collaborative, and able to work effectively with diverse groups.

Desirable Criteria

Qualifications & Knowledge Professional qualifications in finance, leadership, governance, or related fields (e.g., ILM, credit union qualifications).

Understanding of the UK credit union sector and its regulatory landscape. Experience Leadership experience within a credit union, mutual, cooperative, or social enterprise environment.

Experience delivering digital transformation or service modernisation projects.

Experience securing funding, grants, or partnership agreements.

Experience in community engagement, financial inclusion, or member focused service design.

Skills & Competencies

Ability to analyse and interpret regulatory guidance and apply it within a credit union context.

Media or public-speaking experience.

Experience in using financial services technology and data systems.

Personal Attributes

Passion for social impact, financial wellbeing, and community empowerment. Innovative mindset, with the ability to identify new opportunities for growth and improvement.