CREC - Centre for Research in Early Childhood
Business & Operations Officer

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Business & Operations Officer
Salary: c. £32,000 FTE, depending on experience
Hours: Full-time and Part-time will be considered
Location: Central Birmingham, with some flexibility for home working
Contract: Permanent
The Centre for Research in Early Childhood (CREC) is a respected early years research organisation comprising a research charity, training company, European research network and UK research organisation. We work with public bodies, universities, practitioners and partners across the UK and internationally.
We are seeking an organised and proactive Business & Operations Officer to support the smooth day-to-day running of our organisation. This varied role combines finance administration, compliance coordination, HR support, systems management and office operations, providing essential support to CREC's Directors and wider team.
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Key Responsibilities
- Manage financial administration including invoicing, payments, reconciliations and cash-flow reporting.
- Coordinate payroll, pensions and statutory compliance activities.
- Maintain company records, governance documentation and compliance registers.
- Support HR administration, recruitment and employee records.
- Manage supplier, contract and organisational records.
- Coordinate IT systems, user access and information governance activities.
- Oversee office operations, health & safety and facilities management.
- Support cross-organisational projects and continuous improvement initiatives.
About you
You will have relevant experience in business administration, finance, operations or office management, including practical financial administration. You will be highly organised, accurate and confident managing competing priorities with limited supervision. Strong digital skills, sound judgement and discretion when handling confidential information are essential. A degree is not required.


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Experience of Sage, payroll, statutory processes, compliance registers or working within a charity, education, research or small organisation would be advantageous.
Benefits
- Company pension
- Sick pay
- Employee Assistance Scheme
- Employee Benefits Scheme
- On-site parking
- Some flexibility to work from home
Interviews will be held in person on 12 October or 16 October 2026.
Join CREC and play a key role in supporting an organisation dedicated to improving outcomes for children through research, training and professional development.
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