Find a job 
Featured Companies 
Featured Universities 
For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead financial strategy and management for a unique charitable organisation.
- Company: Join West Dean, a vibrant hub for arts, conservation, and cultural heritage in the South Downs National Park.
- Benefits: Enjoy a dynamic work environment with opportunities for professional growth and innovation.
- Why this job: Be part of an exciting journey towards growth and transformation in a supportive community.
- Qualifications: Must be a qualified accountant with strong leadership and financial strategy experience.
- Other info: Applications close on 30th March; interviews scheduled for April.
The predicted salary is between 43200 - 72000 £ per year.
Set in the heart of the South Downs National Park, West Dean is a complex charitable organization that is part of the Edward James Foundation. It encompasses West Dean College of Arts, Design, Craft and Conservation, as well as an extensive estate featuring a historic house, eleven functioning farms, over 100 cottages, a village with a shop, event venues, and visitor attractions. West Dean is also home to historic open gardens and parkland, along with a historically important arts collection and archive, featuring works from prominent 20th century artists and cultural figures. This diverse array of elements combines to create a unique institution dedicated to arts, conservation, and cultural heritage.
With a new Chief Executive and an ambitious vision of the future, West Dean stands at an exciting crossroads as the College embarks on a journey of growth and innovation. The Foundation comprises a community of over 300 staff and volunteers with an annual turnover of c£14 million. Supported by assets in excess of £140 million, the College is well-placed to achieve its corporate ambitions backed by robust financial planning and operational efficiency.
The new Director of Finance will be a key member of the executive leadership team, charged with shaping the College’s financial future and supported by a dedicated team of professional staff. They will have priorities that include:
- Improved budgetary management and reporting
- Commercialization of activities
- Business case development
- Timely advice to academic and senior management
The successful candidate will be a dynamic leader with strong financial acumen and strategic vision. A professionally qualified accountant with extensive management experience, you will have proven experience of developing and delivering successful financial strategies and transformation. You will need to balance traditional financial stewardship with innovative approaches to support the unique and complex environment of the Foundation and have an appreciation of the context and challenges faced by the education and charitable sectors.
As a technical finance expert, you will possess excellent interpersonal skills, be an inspirational leader, and be committed to the development of an inclusive and diverse environment.
Applications should be made via email and must include on separate documents:
- A letter of application setting out your interest in the role and details of how you match the person specification
- A comprehensive curriculum vitae (CV)
- Details of three referees and notice period (referees will not be contacted without your permission)
- A completed Personal Details Form (available above)
The closing date for application is Sunday 30th March. Formal interviews will take place on w/c 7th April and 14th April. Final interviews will take place on w/c 28th April.
In making an application for this role we ask you also to view our Privacy Notice which outlines our compliance to General Data Protection Regulations and the use and storage of your data. Personal Data is held and processed on the lawful basis that such action is in the Legitimate Interest of the company in pursuing the purposes described. Please note that our client is legally obliged to confirm that the appointee is eligible to work in the UK.
Director of Finance employer: Dixon Walter
Contact Detail:
Dixon Walter Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Director of Finance
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the unique financial challenges faced by charitable organisations, especially in the education sector. Understanding these nuances will help you demonstrate your strategic vision during discussions.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in the finance and charity sectors. Attend relevant events or webinars to connect with individuals who can provide insights into the role and the organisation's culture.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss innovative financial strategies that could benefit West Dean. Think about how you can balance traditional financial stewardship with new approaches tailored to their diverse environment.
✨Tip Number 4
Showcase your leadership skills by preparing examples of how you've successfully led teams through financial transformations. Highlight your ability to inspire and develop an inclusive team culture.
We think you need these skills to ace Director of Finance
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Before you start writing, make sure you fully understand the responsibilities and requirements of the Director of Finance position. Tailor your application to highlight how your skills and experiences align with their needs.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter should express your genuine interest in the role and detail how your background makes you a suitable candidate. Be specific about your financial acumen and leadership experience, and mention any relevant achievements that demonstrate your capability.
Tailor Your CV: Ensure your CV is up-to-date and tailored to the job description. Highlight your management experience, financial strategies you've developed, and any relevant qualifications. Use clear headings and bullet points for easy readability.
Prepare References: Select three referees who can vouch for your professional experience and character. Make sure to inform them beforehand and confirm they are comfortable being contacted. Include their details in your application as requested.
How to prepare for a job interview at Dixon Walter
✨Understand the Organisation's Mission
Before your interview, take some time to research West Dean and its mission. Familiarise yourself with their commitment to arts, conservation, and cultural heritage. This will help you align your answers with their values and demonstrate your genuine interest in the role.
✨Showcase Your Financial Acumen
As a Director of Finance, you'll need to exhibit strong financial skills. Prepare examples of successful financial strategies you've implemented in the past. Be ready to discuss how you can apply these experiences to improve budgetary management and reporting at West Dean.
✨Demonstrate Leadership Qualities
Highlight your leadership experience and how you've inspired teams in previous roles. Discuss your approach to fostering an inclusive and diverse environment, as this is crucial for the organisation's culture. Be prepared to share specific instances where your leadership made a positive impact.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect scenario-based questions that assess your problem-solving abilities and strategic vision. Think about challenges faced in the education and charitable sectors and how you would address them. This will showcase your ability to balance traditional financial stewardship with innovative solutions.
