At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead financial strategy and support the CEO in executing VSA's vision.
- Company: Join VSA, a beloved charity in Scotland dedicated to social care and community support.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, car allowance, generous leave, and pension contributions.
- Why this job: Be part of a transformative journey, making a real impact in the community.
- Qualifications: Qualified accountant with senior leadership experience in complex organisations required.
- Other info: Located in Aberdeen City Centre, this role offers a chance to inspire a high-calibre team.
The predicted salary is between 72000 - 108000 £ per year.
Hutcheon Mearns is delighted to be exclusively partnering with one of Scotland’s most beloved charities, VSA on the role of Chief Financial Officer (CFO) based in Aberdeen.
Organisation overview
As one of the region’s most established and diverse social care charities, VSA supports individuals and families through a broad range of services — from a wide range of supported housing services, a specialist residential school campus at Linn Moor School, through to their care at home and unpaid carers services in the Shire adjoining our Farm Park at Easter Anguston. With nearly 800 employees, VSA are a complex and deeply impactful organisation committed to caring together with their local communities so that no one is left behind. Now, they’re embarking on a period of significant operational and strategic transformation — and they are seeking a Chief Financial Officer who can help lead their financial strategy with vision, rigour, and ingenuity.
Position overview
Reporting directly to the Chief Executive and serving as a key member of the Executive Management Team, the CFO will be responsible for shaping VSA’s financial plans ensuring long-term sustainability and resilience. This role goes far beyond financial stewardship; it’s about future proofing the organisation and building new income streams using innovative funding models, capital optimisation, with strong commercial insight.
You will be involved but not limited to the following duties:
- Support the CEO, Board, and Executive Team in setting and executing the organisation’s vision and strategic plan
- Lead the development of financial and investment strategies aligned with organisational goals
- Drive a high-performing finance and corporate service function that supports effective decision-making across the charity
- Oversee the strategic management and financial performance of the charity’s significant property portfolio
- Lead initiatives to unlock capital value from property assets, including disposals, joint ventures, leasebacks, and reconfigurations aligned with service needs
- Drive the evolution of the balance sheet, ensuring asset utilisation is maximised to fund future impact
- Oversee treasury and liquidity management, including investment strategy, banking relationships, and reserves policies
- Explore and evaluate new financing mechanisms, including social investment, blended finance, and asset backed borrowing where aligned with risk appetite
- Lead capital planning and financial modelling to support long-term growth and service transformation
- Inspire and develop a high-calibre finance and corporate services team
- Promote a values-led culture of accountability, transparency, and collaboration
- Act as an ambassador for the charity with external stakeholders, partners, and funders
Profile overview
- Qualified accountant (ACA, ACCA, CIMA or equivalent)
- Substantial experience in senior financial leadership roles within complex organisations
- Proven expertise in managing large property portfolios and delivering asset-based strategies
- Deep understanding of charity finance, governance, and regulatory frameworks
- Excellent leadership, interpersonal, and communication skills
Package & Other Information
The role of CFO is offering the following package: £competitive
- Full time
- Car Allowance: £4,900
- Pension: 7.25% Employer Contribution, 4% Employee Contribution
- Leave: 25 days rising to 29 with 5 years’ service plus 9 flexible Public Holidays
- Location: Aberdeen City Centre
How to apply
Please reach out to Jack Ramage for a private and confidential discussion about the role – andrew.mcleod@hutcheonmearns.co.uk Alternatively, please apply by submitting an up to date CV.
Chief Financial Officer (Aberdeen City) employer: Bank of America

Contact Detail:
Bank of America Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Chief Financial Officer (Aberdeen City)
✨Tip Number 1
Network with professionals in the charity sector, especially those who have experience in financial leadership roles. Attend relevant events or webinars to connect with potential colleagues and gain insights into the unique challenges faced by charities like VSA.
✨Tip Number 2
Familiarise yourself with VSA's mission and values. Understanding their strategic goals will help you articulate how your financial expertise can align with their vision during discussions or interviews.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss innovative funding models and capital optimisation strategies that you've successfully implemented in previous roles. Highlighting your experience in these areas will demonstrate your capability to drive VSA's financial strategy.
✨Tip Number 4
Research the current trends in charity finance and governance. Being well-versed in these topics will not only prepare you for potential interview questions but also show your commitment to staying informed about the sector.
We think you need these skills to ace Chief Financial Officer (Aberdeen City)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Before applying, make sure you fully understand the responsibilities and expectations of the Chief Financial Officer position at VSA. Tailor your application to highlight how your experience aligns with their needs.
Highlight Relevant Experience: In your CV and cover letter, emphasise your substantial experience in senior financial leadership roles, particularly within complex organisations. Mention any specific achievements related to managing large property portfolios or developing financial strategies.
Showcase Leadership Skills: VSA is looking for someone who can inspire and develop a high-calibre finance team. Use examples from your past roles to demonstrate your leadership, interpersonal, and communication skills.
Tailor Your Application: Make sure your CV and cover letter are tailored specifically for this role. Address how you can contribute to VSA's vision and strategic plan, and mention your understanding of charity finance and governance.
How to prepare for a job interview at Bank of America
✨Understand the Organisation's Mission
Before your interview, take some time to research VSA and its mission. Understanding their values and how they impact the community will help you align your answers with their goals, showing that you're genuinely interested in contributing to their cause.
✨Demonstrate Financial Acumen
As a CFO, you'll need to showcase your financial expertise. Be prepared to discuss your experience with financial strategies, investment planning, and managing large property portfolios. Use specific examples from your past roles to illustrate your capabilities.
✨Highlight Leadership Skills
VSA is looking for someone who can inspire and develop a high-calibre finance team. Share examples of how you've successfully led teams in the past, focusing on your leadership style and how you foster collaboration and accountability.
✨Prepare for Strategic Questions
Expect questions about your vision for the organisation's financial future. Think about innovative funding models and capital optimisation strategies you could propose. This will demonstrate your forward-thinking approach and readiness to drive transformation.