At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the Trust's financial strategy and ensure robust financial management across all schools.
- Company: Join a forward-thinking Trust dedicated to every pupil's success and belonging.
- Benefits: Enjoy professional growth, flexible working, and a supportive team environment.
- Other info: Opportunities for continuous improvement and career development in a dynamic setting.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on education while shaping financial strategies for the future.
- Qualifications: Must be a qualified accountant with senior financial leadership experience.
The predicted salary is between 65000 - 75000 £ per year.
This is a unique opportunity to play a key part in shaping the future of a Trust driven by a clear ambition: that every pupil belongs, thrives and achieves. The Director of Finance is a key member of the Trust's senior leadership team and is central to ensuring the ongoing financial resilience, sustainability and long-term viability of the Trust. The postholder will provide strategic and operational leadership across the full breadth of the Trust's finance function, ensuring that planning, budgeting, financial control, reporting, assurance and compliance arrangements are robust, proportionate and aligned to the Trust's strategic priorities.
Reporting directly to the Chief Finance & Operations Officer (CFOO), the Director of Finance will support the Executive Team, Trustees, Headteachers and other leaders by providing high-quality financial analysis, advice and challenge, enabling informed decision-making and the effective stewardship of public funds. The role is responsible for leading a high-performing finance function that delivers accurate statutory and management reporting, strong internal controls, value for money, effective risk management and continuous improvement across the Trust.
Responsibilities- Leading the development and delivery of the Trust's financial strategy and long-term planning
- Overseeing budgeting, forecasting and financial monitoring across all schools and services
- Ensuring compliance with all financial regulations, audit requirements and statutory reporting
- Providing high-quality financial insight and advice to the CEO, Trustees and senior leaders
- Driving value for money and identifying opportunities for efficiency and growth
- Leading and developing a high-performing finance team
- Supporting schools to strengthen financial understanding and accountability
- Contributing to wider organisational strategy as a member of the senior leadership team
- A professionally qualified accountant (ACA, ACCA, CIMA or equivalent)
- A proven track record of senior financial leadership experience, ideally within education, public sector or complex organisations
- A strategic thinker with a sharp eye for detail and a focus on delivering impact
- The ability to translate complex financial information into clear, meaningful insight for a wide range of audiences
- A collaborative, values‑led leader who is motivated to make a positive difference
- Experience of leading, inspiring and developing teams with a strong focus on continuous improvement
- Depending on the role, occasional travel between Discovery locations may be required
- A valid driving licence and appropriate business insurance are necessary, and you will need to provide evidence of these documents
- Professional growth and support through ongoing professional development opportunities
- Access to learning networks and visits to other organisations
- Supportive leadership and a highly committed team
- Highly motivated team
- Opportunities to make a real difference while enjoying the role
- Support from a central services team who support schools and colleagues
- Flexible working options
- Employee Assistance Programme (EAP)
- Defined benefit pension scheme
- Annual incremental pay increases within the pay scale
- Cycle‑to‑work scheme
- Gym discounts
- Eyecare vouchers
- Dental support
- Retail discounts
- Free parking
We welcome enquiries from everyone and value diversity in our workforce.
Director of Finance in Leicester employer: Discovery Inc
As a Director of Finance at our Trust, you will be part of a dynamic and supportive leadership team dedicated to ensuring that every pupil belongs, thrives, and achieves. We offer a collaborative work culture with a strong focus on professional growth, flexible working options, and a range of benefits including a defined benefit pension scheme and employee assistance programmes. Join us in making a meaningful impact while enjoying a fulfilling career in a role that values your expertise and commitment to excellence.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Director of Finance in Leicester
✨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 Discovery Inc. 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 Director of Finance in Leicester
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 Discovery Inc.
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 Discovery Inc'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 Discovery Inc
✨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 Discovery Inc.
✨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 Discovery Inc 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 Discovery Inc 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.
