At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead financial strategy and drive performance across a global education organisation.
- Company: Cognita, a leader in independent education with 90 schools worldwide.
- Benefits: Hybrid working, competitive salary, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Join a diverse team committed to safeguarding and promoting welfare.
- Why this job: Make a significant impact in a dynamic, ambitious environment focused on education.
- Qualifications: Professional accounting qualification and senior leadership experience required.
The predicted salary is between 65000 - 90000 £ per year.
About Cognita: Cognita is a global leader in independent education. Founded in 2004, we are a growing community of 90 schools in 21 countries - in Europe, North America, Latin America, Asia and the Middle East - serving more than 100,000 students. Each of our schools are proudly unique, however our collective purpose is to create an environment where everyone can, "Thrive in a rapidly evolving world".
About the Role: We are seeking an exceptional Group Finance Director to play a pivotal role at the heart of our organisation, serving as the Group CFO's right-hand person and a key strategic partner. This is a high-profile leadership opportunity for an experienced finance executive who combines outstanding technical expertise with commercial insight and the ability to influence at Executive and Board level. You will lead the Group Finance function, driving financial strategy, planning, reporting, governance, and performance across a complex, multinational, multi-entity business. Working closely with senior leaders, you will provide robust financial analysis to support growth, investment, acquisitions, and transformation initiatives, while ensuring the highest standards of financial integrity, compliance, and internal control. You will also support treasury and liquidity management, champion continuous improvement and finance transformation, and develop a high-performing finance team capable of meeting the organisation's future ambitions. This is a hybrid position, working 2-3 days per week in our Central London office.
Who We Are Looking For: The successful candidate will hold a recognised professional accounting qualification (ACA, ACCA, CIMA or equivalent) and bring significant senior leadership experience, ideally within a private equity-backed, multinational or listed environment. Experience of Big 4, M&A, business transformation, and finance systems implementation would be advantageous. This is an outstanding opportunity for a strategic, commercially focused finance leader looking to make a significant impact in a dynamic and ambitious organisation.
How to Apply: Complete this application before the closing date. The closing date for applications is: Sunday 26th of July 2026. Cognita Schools is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. We expect all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. All appointments are subject to safer recruitment checks, including an enhanced DBS check. Our Safeguarding and Child Protection Policy is available on the school website. Details on Recruitment of Ex-Offenders is included within the Application Guidance. We are an equal opportunities employer committed to diversity and treating all employees with dignity and respect regardless of background. Early applications are encouraged, we reserve the right to interview and appoint prior to closing date for the right applicant.
Group Finance Director in London employer: Cognita
Cognita is an exceptional employer that fosters a vibrant work culture focused on growth and collaboration, making it an ideal place for finance professionals to thrive. With a commitment to employee development and a dynamic environment in Central London, the Group Finance Director will have the opportunity to lead transformative financial strategies while being part of a global community dedicated to educational excellence. The hybrid working model further enhances work-life balance, allowing for flexibility in a high-impact role.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Group Finance Director in London
✨Tap into Campus Networks
If you're still in uni, don’t forget to engage with your campus's career services and attend finance-related events. Banks often do presentations and recruitment drives on campus, so put yourself out there and make use of these opportunities to show off your passion for the field.
✨Get Certified
Consider pursuing relevant certifications like the CFA or ACCA while you’re job hunting. They not only beef up your CV but also connect you with professional bodies which can lead to networking opportunities and even job openings in banking and financial services.
✨Connect on Professional Platforms
Join finance-focused groups on platforms like LinkedIn and engage in discussions. This can really help you stand out from the crowd, allowing potential employers to see your knowledge and interest in industry trends. Plus, you might stumble upon job postings shared exclusively within the group.
✨Apply Directly and Be Proactive
Don’t shy away from reaching out directly to firms like Cognita. Use their websites and apply through them, but also consider following up with a polite email to express your enthusiasm. Being proactive can make a huge difference in getting noticed in the competitive financial services sector.
We think you need these skills to ace Group Finance Director in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Numbers!:In the banking and financial services world, quantifiable achievements are key. Make sure your CV highlights your grades in relevant subjects, any financial certifications you hold, and specific projects where you've delivered measurable results. Employers love to see how your skills translate into real-world success.
Tailor Your Cover Letter to the Role:When applying for a full-time position, your cover letter should make a direct connection between your experience and the job description. Don't just state your enthusiasm for finance—dive into how your background in banking or financial analysis sets you apart. Let your passion shine through while being specific about what you can bring to Cognita.
Include Relevant Financial Software Experience:If you've worked with financial modelling tools or software like Excel, SAP, or specific analytical tools during your studies or internships, bring that up! Highlighting your proficiency can really make your application pop and show you're ready to hit the ground running in a full-time role.
Research and Reflect:Before hitting that 'apply' button on Cognita's website, do a little digging. Look up their recent projects, values, and culture. Reflecting their ethos in your application can make a huge difference and show you’re genuinely interested in being part of the team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Cognita
✨Brush Up on Financial Analysis Skills
Make sure you're well-versed in financial concepts and analytical techniques relevant to banking and financial services. Get comfortable with tools like Excel for modelling or financial forecasting, as technical questions in this area are common during interviews with Cognita.
✨Prepare for Case Studies
Expect to tackle case studies that demonstrate your problem-solving skills in real-world banking scenarios. Familiarise yourself with the types of problems you might face—think risk assessments or investment evaluations—and be ready to articulate your thought process clearly.
✨Show Your Passion for Finance
Since this is a full-time position, employers at Cognita will be keen to see your genuine interest in finance. Be prepared to discuss recent industry trends or news articles that excite you, showcasing your enthusiasm and engagement with the field.
✨Network with Industry Professionals
Before your interview, reach out to current or former Cognita employees on platforms like LinkedIn. They'll offer unique insights into the company's culture and the interview process, which can give us a delightful edge in showcasing a good fit for the team.
