At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead financial strategy and governance to enhance student experience.
- Company: Thriving Sixth Form College at the heart of its community.
- Benefits: Impactful role, professional development, and a supportive team environment.
- Other info: Join a collaborative team committed to safeguarding and inclusion.
- Why this job: Shape the future of education while ensuring financial sustainability.
- Qualifications: Professional accounting qualification and significant senior-level finance experience.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 80000 € per year.
Join a thriving Sixth Form College at the heart of its community. We are seeking an exceptional and values-driven Executive Finance Director to join our senior leadership team at a pivotal time in the College's growth and development. This is a rare opportunity to play a strategic and influential role in shaping the future of a high-performing Sixth Form College, through ensuring financial sustainability while enhancing our outstanding student experience at the centre of all we do.
About the role
Reporting directly to the Principal, the Executive Finance Director holds overall responsibility for the College's financial strategy, governance, and operational financial management. The role also provides leadership across key professional support teams including Finance, Payroll, IT, Estates and Catering Services. You will act as a trusted advisor to the Principal, Senior Leadership Team and Governing Body, providing high-quality financial insight, ensuring robust compliance, and enabling informed strategic and operational decision-making. Working collaboratively across the College, you will ensure that financial planning, resource allocation, and risk management are fully aligned to our vision, values and long-term strategic objectives.
About you
We are looking for an experienced, highly credible finance leader who combines strategic confidence with technical excellence, strong values and a commitment to education. Essential requirements include:
- A recognised professional accounting qualification (CCAB or equivalent)
- Significant senior-level financial leadership experience in a complex organisation
- Substantial and demonstrable experience within ideally the Further Education and/or Sixth Form College, or broad education sector, with a strong understanding of its funding, regulatory and operational landscape
- Proven experience of leading financial strategy, planning and organisational change
- Strong knowledge of audit, risk management and governance frameworks
- A track record of working effectively with Boards or Governing Bodies
- Exceptional leadership, communication and stakeholder engagement skills
You will be a collaborative and resilient leader, able to balance strategic vision with operational delivery, and committed to achieving the very best outcomes for students and staff.
Our values
We are proud of our inclusive, supportive and ambitious community. All staff are expected to actively contribute to:
- Safeguarding and promoting the welfare of young people
- Equality, diversity and inclusion at every level
- The highest standards of professionalism and integrity
- The distinctive ethos and values of the College
Why join us?
- A key strategic leadership role with real impact
- The opportunity to shape the future of a successful and growing college
- A collaborative (fun!), and forward-thinking senior team
- A strong commitment to professional development and wellbeing
Executive Finance Director employer: AoC Executive Recruitment
Join a thriving Sixth Form College that prioritises community and student experience, offering an exceptional opportunity for the Executive Finance Director to influence financial strategy and governance at a pivotal time in its growth. With a collaborative and forward-thinking senior leadership team, the College is committed to professional development and wellbeing, ensuring a supportive environment where your contributions will have a meaningful impact on shaping the future of education.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Executive Finance Director
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the education sector, especially those who have insights into Sixth Form Colleges. Attend relevant events or webinars to meet potential colleagues and decision-makers.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the college's values and recent developments. Tailor your responses to show how your experience aligns with their mission of enhancing student experiences and financial sustainability.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your leadership skills during the interview. Be ready to discuss specific examples of how you've successfully led financial strategy and organisational change in previous roles, particularly in the education sector.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive about their job search!
We think you need these skills to ace Executive Finance Director
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter to reflect the specific skills and experiences that match the Executive Finance Director role. Highlight your financial leadership experience and how it aligns with our values and mission.
Showcase Your Achievements:Don’t just list your responsibilities; share your successes! Use quantifiable results to demonstrate how you've led financial strategy or improved processes in previous roles. This will help us see the impact you can bring to our college.
Be Authentic:Let your personality shine through in your application. We’re looking for someone who embodies our values, so share your passion for education and commitment to student outcomes. Authenticity goes a long way!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to submit your application directly through our website. It’s the best way to ensure we receive all your details correctly and gives you a chance to explore more about our college and community.
How to prepare for a job interview at AoC Executive Recruitment
✨Know Your Numbers
As an Executive Finance Director, you’ll need to demonstrate your financial acumen. Brush up on key financial metrics relevant to the education sector, such as funding models and budget management. Be prepared to discuss how you've successfully managed finances in previous roles.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Style
This role requires exceptional leadership skills. Think about examples from your past where you’ve led teams through change or improved financial processes. Be ready to share how you engage with stakeholders and foster collaboration across departments.
✨Align with Their Values
The college prides itself on its values-driven approach. Familiarise yourself with their ethos and be prepared to discuss how your personal values align with theirs. Share specific instances where you’ve promoted inclusivity and integrity in your previous roles.
✨Prepare for Strategic Questions
Expect questions that assess your strategic thinking and decision-making abilities. Prepare to discuss how you would approach financial planning and risk management in a college setting. Think about potential challenges they might face and how you would address them.
