Spring Impact UK

About

Spring Impact is a global non-profit consultancy that helps mission-driven organisations scale their impact sustainably. Having supported more than 1,000 organisations across over 50 countries, Spring Impact needed to appoint a new Director of Finance & Operations to strengthen internal systems and processes and support the organisation’s next phase of growth.

Prospectus has partnered with Spring Impact on several successful appointments, building a long-standing relationship grounded in trust and collaboration.

The Brief

The Director of Finance & Operations plays a pivotal role in ensuring Spring Impact operates efficiently, sustainably, and in alignment with its mission. As a key member of the Senior Management Team, the postholder leads internal operations across finance, HR, governance, and systems, enabling the organisation to deliver high-impact consultancy work globally. Due to the nature of Spring Impact’s model, we were tasked with identifying candidates with commercial or consultancy experience who could balance entrepreneurial thinking with strong financial, operational leadership and effective communication.

Our Approach

Prospectus delivered a comprehensive and collaborative search process, shaped through multiple conversations with members of Spring Impact’s Senior Leadership Team to ensure a wide range of internal perspectives informed the approach. Working closely with the organisation, we helped design a clear and compelling appointment brief that captured the unique blend of financial leadership, operational oversight, and entrepreneurial mindset required for success in this role.

Drawing on our extensive networks across the not-for-profit sector, we complemented this with a proactive sourcing strategy focused on identifying candidates who combined strong financial management with commercial or consultancy experience. The campaign generated significant interest, with 80 applications received. Using a structured and consistent assessment process, we shortlisted and interviewed eight candidates, providing Spring Impact with a high‑quality and well‑aligned pool for consideration.

The Outcome

Nicola Little was appointed to the role. Nicola is a qualified accountant who brings a broad range of experience across heritage and culture, consultancy, and private equity. Beginning her career at Deloitte as an analyst, Nicola then moved into consulting, supporting clients through strategy and operational change. Most recently, as Finance Manager at The Horton Epsom, she established all financial processes and procedures from the ground up. Nicola is deeply committed to values-driven work and brings a blend of financial expertise, operational rigour, and entrepreneurial mindset that aligns strongly with Spring Impact’s mission.

If you would like support in sourcing exceptional talent into a leadership role in your organisation, find out more about our Executive Search Service or Charity Board Recruitment Service.