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- Tasks: Lead the finance team and manage financial processes for the college.
- Company: Join Abingdon and Witney College, a dynamic institution focused on high-quality education.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary and a supportive work environment with career progression opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a meaningful impact in education while shaping the financial future of the college.
- Qualifications: Must be a qualified accountant with experience in financial management.
- Other info: Work 37 hours a week, Monday to Friday, at our Abingdon Campus.
The predicted salary is between 50700 - 57000 £ per year.
£58,647 to £64,721 per annum, 37 hours per week. The working pattern is Monday to Thursday 7.5 hours per day, Friday 7 hours per day, 52 weeks per annum, Abingdon Campus.
Are you an ambitious Accountant with experience of managing a finance team, looking for career progression and ready to make a meaningful impact in education? Abingdon and Witney College is a dynamic and ambitious Further Education college, committed to delivering high-quality learning and driving positive outcomes for our students, staff, and community. We are seeking a Head of Finance to play a pivotal role in supporting the shape of our financial future and ensuring the robust financial health of the organisation.
About the role:
As Head of Finance, you will lead our finance team, owning the financial processes within the College and be responsible for delivering accurate financial reporting. Reporting directly to the Finance Director, you’ll contribute to strategic planning and decision-making at the highest level.
Key responsibilities include:
- Leading on all financial processes within the College
- Producing timely and accurate management accounts and financial reports
- Advising senior leaders on financial performance and risk
- Overseeing financial compliance, audit processes, and reporting to external bodies (e.g. DfE)
- Driving value for money and efficiency across the college
What we’re looking for:
- A qualified accountant
- Proven experience in financial management, ideally in the education or public sector
- Strong analytical, communication, and people management skills
- A collaborative leader who shares our values and commitment to excellence
Head of Finance employer: Abingdon and Witney College
Contact Detail:
Abingdon and Witney College Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Finance
✨Tip Number 1
Network with professionals in the education sector, especially those who have experience in finance roles. Attend industry events or join relevant online forums to connect with potential colleagues and learn more about the specific challenges and opportunities in this field.
✨Tip Number 2
Familiarise yourself with the financial regulations and compliance requirements specific to the education sector. Understanding these nuances will not only enhance your knowledge but also demonstrate your commitment to the role during interviews.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your leadership style and how you manage a finance team effectively. Think of examples where you've successfully led a team through challenges or implemented changes that improved financial processes.
✨Tip Number 4
Research Abingdon and Witney College's financial health and recent initiatives. Being able to speak knowledgeably about the college's current situation and how you can contribute to its financial strategy will set you apart from other candidates.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Finance
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights your experience in financial management, particularly in the education or public sector. Emphasise your leadership skills and any relevant achievements that demonstrate your ability to manage a finance team effectively.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your passion for education and your commitment to driving positive outcomes. Discuss how your background aligns with the responsibilities of the Head of Finance role and how you can contribute to the college's financial health.
Highlight Relevant Skills: In your application, focus on your analytical, communication, and people management skills. Provide specific examples of how you've successfully led teams and advised senior leaders on financial performance and risk.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting, carefully proofread your application materials. Ensure there are no spelling or grammatical errors, and that all information is clear and concise. A polished application reflects your attention to detail, which is crucial for a finance role.
How to prepare for a job interview at Abingdon and Witney College
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
As a Head of Finance, you'll be leading a team. Be prepared to discuss your leadership style and provide examples of how you've successfully managed teams in the past. Highlight any specific achievements that demonstrate your ability to inspire and motivate others.
✨Understand the Education Sector
Familiarise yourself with the financial challenges and opportunities within the education sector, particularly in further education. Being able to discuss current trends and how they impact financial management will show your commitment and understanding of the role.
✨Prepare for Technical Questions
Expect questions related to financial processes, compliance, and reporting. Brush up on your knowledge of financial regulations relevant to the education sector, as well as best practices in financial reporting and risk management.
✨Demonstrate Your Analytical Skills
Be ready to discuss how you approach financial analysis and decision-making. Provide examples of how your analytical skills have led to improved financial performance or efficiency in previous roles, especially in a collaborative environment.
