Ordnance Survey Finance Director

The Role of the Finance Director at Ordnance Survey

The Finance Director at Ordnance Survey (OS) holds a pivotal role, responsible for the financial health, strategic planning, and overall economic governance of this iconic British institution. OS, as a government-owned company, operates at the intersection of public service and commercial viability, making the Finance Director’s position uniquely challenging and rewarding.

A primary responsibility is ensuring sound financial management. This encompasses overseeing budgeting processes, meticulously tracking revenue and expenditure, and producing accurate and timely financial reports for both internal stakeholders and external regulatory bodies, including the UK government. The Finance Director must implement and maintain robust financial controls to safeguard assets and ensure compliance with relevant accounting standards and legal frameworks.

Beyond the operational aspects of finance, the role demands strategic thinking. The Finance Director plays a key role in shaping OS’s long-term financial strategy, forecasting future trends, and identifying opportunities for growth and efficiency. This involves advising the Chief Executive Officer and the executive board on investment decisions, pricing strategies, and the potential financial implications of new product development or market expansion. The Director helps to model various scenarios to assess financial risks and opportunities, contributing to a resilient and sustainable business model.

Given OS’s unique position as a provider of geospatial data critical to national infrastructure and planning, the Finance Director must also understand the broader societal impact of the organization’s work. This involves balancing the need for commercial success with the obligation to support public sector initiatives and promote innovation within the geospatial industry. For instance, the Finance Director would be instrumental in assessing the financial viability of providing data for emergency services or supporting environmental monitoring efforts, ensuring these vital services are sustainably funded.

Furthermore, the Finance Director is a key communicator, responsible for clearly articulating OS’s financial performance and outlook to a variety of audiences, including government officials, shareholders, and the media. Strong interpersonal and presentation skills are essential for building trust and maintaining transparency. They also lead and manage a finance team, fostering a culture of excellence, integrity, and continuous improvement. This includes attracting and retaining top talent within the finance function.

In a constantly evolving technological landscape, the Finance Director must stay abreast of innovations in financial technology and adapt to changing business models. They are often involved in implementing new financial systems, streamlining processes, and leveraging data analytics to improve financial performance and decision-making. The role necessitates a blend of traditional financial expertise and a forward-thinking approach to embrace the opportunities presented by technological advancements.