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- Tasks: Lead the finance function and shape strategic priorities for a mission-driven organisation.
- Company: Scottish Prison Service, committed to safety and rehabilitation.
- Benefits: Generous salary, 28.97% pension, 37 days annual leave, and flexible working.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in public safety and support meaningful change.
- Qualifications: Expertise in financial regulations and experience leading senior finance teams.
- Other info: Dynamic role with opportunities for professional growth and impact.
The predicted salary is between 85000 - 119000 £ per year.
GBP85,000, with generous benefits or GBP500 day rate. 28.97% pension and 37 days annual leave. 9 month interim contract. Edinburgh with occasional travel to other sites.
The Scottish Prison Service (SPS) is a dynamic, people centred organisation committed to the safety, rehabilitation, and reintegration of individuals in its care. Operating as an Executive Agency of the Scottish Government, the SPS supports approximately 8,000 people across 15 establishments, focusing on reducing reoffending and promoting positive outcomes for individuals, their families, and wider communities. The SPS values equality, human rights, and continuous development, offering staff opportunities to contribute to meaningful work that makes a real difference. With investment in modern facilities and strategies, such as mental health initiatives and gender specific support, the SPS emphasises care, compassion, and professionalism in challenging environments. Join the SPS team and help shape a safer, more inclusive society.
The role involves leading the finance function and supporting the delivery of organisational objectives. Reporting to the Director of Finance, the post holder will ensure the effective delivery of financial operations, governance, policy, and strategy. This role will require regular deputising for the Director and active involvement in shaping strategic priorities across the SPS.
You will oversee financial and management accounting, policy and systems, and finance business partnering. Responsibilities include managing creditor payments, treasury functions, statutory reporting, capital accounting, and providing timely, accurate financial reporting. Additionally, you will deliver statutory annual accounts, manage financial planning and budgeting, maintain the finance risk register, and ensure adherence to financial controls and policies.
This is a unique opportunity to influence financial strategy and support a mission driven organisation dedicated to public safety and rehabilitation.
The ideal candidate should have:
- Expert knowledge of financial regulations and technical accounting
- Strategic level experience working with Executive/Project Boards in complex environments
- Proven experience leading and motivating senior finance teams and managing high level projects
- Ability to develop strategic relationships and influence internal/external stakeholders
- Experience leading finance teams through transformation and developing processes to achieve goals
- Strong decision making skills; able to analyse complex issues and deliver innovative solutions
- Excellent written and verbal communication; able to convey complex information effectively
- Public sector accounting experience (statutory accounts, Scottish Government budgeting) is desirable.
You can contact Lauryn Pringle or Debbie Shields at Aspen People for a confidential discussion about the role. If you are interested, please get your application to us at your earliest convenience to be considered. More information can be found within the document below: Job Description and Person Specification.
To apply, please submit your CV and cover letter (as one combined document) via the apply button.
Interim Head of Finance in Scotland employer: Aspen People
Contact Detail:
Aspen People Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Interim Head of Finance in Scotland
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the finance sector, especially those who have experience with public sector roles. A friendly chat can lead to insider info about job openings or even a referral.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the Scottish Prison Service and its financial strategies. Show us you understand their mission and how your skills can help shape a safer society. Tailor your responses to highlight your relevant experience.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your pitch! You never know when you'll meet someone who can help you land that interim Head of Finance role. Be ready to explain your experience and how it aligns with SPS's goals in a clear and engaging way.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive and eager to join our mission-driven team.
We think you need these skills to ace Interim Head of Finance in Scotland
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV and Cover Letter: Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter to highlight your relevant experience and skills for the Head of Finance role. Use keywords from the job description to show that you understand what SPS is looking for.
Showcase Your Leadership Experience: Since this role involves leading senior finance teams, be sure to emphasise your leadership experience. Share specific examples of how you've motivated teams and managed high-level projects in complex environments.
Be Clear and Concise: When writing your application, clarity is key! Make your points straightforward and avoid jargon. Remember, you want to convey complex information effectively, so keep it simple and to the point.
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your CV and cover letter reach us directly. We can’t wait to see what you bring to the table!
How to prepare for a job interview at Aspen People
✨Know Your Numbers
As the Interim Head of Finance, you'll need to demonstrate your expert knowledge of financial regulations and technical accounting. Brush up on key financial metrics and be ready to discuss how you've applied them in previous roles. This will show that you can hit the ground running.
✨Showcase Your Strategic Mindset
Prepare examples of how you've influenced strategic decisions in complex environments. Think about times when you've worked with Executive or Project Boards and how your input shaped outcomes. This will highlight your ability to contribute to the SPS's mission-driven objectives.
✨Communicate Clearly
Excellent communication is crucial for this role. Practice explaining complex financial concepts in simple terms. You might be asked to present financial reports or strategies, so being able to convey information effectively will set you apart from other candidates.
✨Demonstrate Leadership Skills
Be ready to discuss your experience leading and motivating senior finance teams. Share specific examples of how you've managed high-level projects and driven transformation within finance functions. This will showcase your capability to lead the finance team at SPS successfully.
