Group Finance Director

The R&A is one of the world’s leading governing bodies for golf, responsible for developing and governing the sport internationally outside the United States and Mexico. Headquartered in St Andrews, the organisation oversees a global portfolio of championships, commercial activities and development initiatives, reinvesting revenues to ensure the long‑term growth and sustainability of the game.

As part of an ongoing period of transformation and strategic development, The R&A is now seeking to appoint a Group Finance Director to provide financial leadership across the Group and The Royal and Ancient Golf Club of St Andrews.

This is a significant and visible leadership role within a complex, multi‑entity organisation, offering the opportunity to shape financial strategy, strengthen governance and support long‑term organisational success.

The Opportunity

Reporting to the Chief Financial and Operating Officer and working closely with the Chief Executive, leadership team and group Boards and Committees, the Group Finance Director will lead the Finance function and provide financial direction across all areas of the organisation.

The role combines operational leadership with strategic influence and will play a central part in supporting the organisation’s continued transformation, commercial growth and long‑term financial sustainability.

You will oversee financial planning, reporting and governance across a diverse portfolio of activities, including championship delivery, commercial operations, charitable entities and investment management. The position also carries key governance responsibilities, including acting as the Assistant Financial Secretary of the Club and holding several directorships across Group entities.

This is a rare opportunity to join a globally recognised organisation at a pivotal stage in its development.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and deliver the organisation’s long‑term financial strategy aligned to business objectives
• Provide strategic financial advice to the Executive Team and Board
• Lead and develop a high‑performing Finance function across the Group
• Ensure robust financial governance, control and regulatory compliance across all entities
• Oversee budgeting, forecasting and financial planning processes
• Manage investment strategy, treasury and capital planning activities
• Lead relationships with auditors, investment managers and key external advisers
• Support major commercial initiatives and investment decisions
• Be the Assistant Financial Secretary of the Club
• Director on several subsidiary company Boards

The Person

We are looking for an experienced and credible finance leader who combines strong technical capability with sound judgement and commercial insight.

You will bring:

• A recognised professional accounting qualification (CIMA, CA or ACCA)
• Significant senior finance leadership experience within a complex organisation
• A strong track record of financial strategy, governance and performance management
• Experience working closely with Boards and senior stakeholders
• The ability to lead, develop and inspire high‑performing teams
• Strong communication and influencing skills
• A collaborative and relationship‑driven approach
• The resilience and adaptability to operate in a dynamic environment

An appreciation for the heritage and purpose of The R&A, together with a genuine interest in contributing to a values‑led organisation, will be important.

This is a unique opportunity to take on a senior finance leadership role within a globally respected organisation with a clear sense of purpose and ambition. You will play a central role in shaping financial strategy, strengthening governance and supporting the continued evolution of an international organisation at a time of meaningful change.

New Town Hanover is exclusively retained on this appointment. For a confidential conversation, please contact Jane Gilchrist or apply via LinkedIn. All direct and third‑party applications will be forwarded to New Town Hanover. The closing date for applications is Friday 22nd May

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