Find a job 
Featured Companies 
Featured Universities 
For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead finance and IT functions, oversee budgets, and drive strategic initiatives.
- Company: Join Trent College, a respected independent school making a real difference.
- Benefits: Enjoy private medical, life assurance, enhanced leave, gym access, and more.
- Why this job: Be part of a high-performing team shaping the future of education.
- Qualifications: Qualified accountant with senior leadership experience and strong communication skills.
- Other info: Opportunity to modernise operations and leave a lasting impact.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 84000 £ per year.
Job Description
Looking for something a bit different?
A role where you can combine commercial thinking, strategic leadership and long-term impact — all while being part of a school community that genuinely makes a difference?
This isn’t your typical finance role. Yes, the numbers matter — but so does the bigger picture.
We’re talking strategic planning, governance, estates, IT, data protection, compliance, and helping shape the future direction of a respected and values-led independent school.
Following an internal promotion, we’re exclusively supporting Trent College, a thriving independent day and boarding school on a beautiful 45-acre campus in Long Eaton, Nottingham, to appoint their next Director of Finance & Business.
The role:
You’ll join the Executive Leadership Team, reporting to the Bursar, and working closely with the Heads of Trent College and The Elms (the junior school), along with the Board of Governors. You’ll lead the Finance and IT functions, oversee the school’s operating budget, and support a wide range of strategic and operational initiatives across the group — including systems modernisation, improved insight and reporting, and enhancing operational efficiency.
The role also holds formal responsibility as Company Secretary and Privacy Compliance Lead. You’ll work across the group structure, including its trading subsidiary, and help lead financial planning, legal matters, investment appraisal, and regulatory reporting — while continuing to support and develop your teams.
What we’re looking for:
- A qualified accountant (ACA / ACCA / CIMA) with senior leadership experience
- Someone with the ability to move between operational detail and strategic thinking
- A strong collaborator and communicator — comfortable influencing at board level and leading cross-functional teams
- A commercially aware, values-led leader who can drive change and bring fresh thinking
- Experience within education, charity or regulated environments would be beneficial, but isn’t essential
Offering between £70,000–£77,000 + benefits including private medical, life assurance, enhanced sick and family leave, staff fee remission, and free on-site gym and parking.
Why join Trent College?
This is a chance to step into a broad, senior leadership role with influence across all areas of the school. You’ll be part of a close-knit, high-performing executive team with a clear strategic focus and a shared commitment to delivering excellent outcomes for pupils, families and staff.
There’s a strong foundation in place — but plenty of scope to modernise, shape the future, and leave a lasting impact.
If that sounds like your kind of challenge, let’s talk.
Distinct Recruitment Privacy Policy
Director of Finance & Business employer: Distinct Recruitment
Contact Detail:
Distinct Recruitment Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Director of Finance & Business
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the specific challenges and opportunities facing independent schools today. Understanding the unique financial landscape of educational institutions will help you demonstrate your strategic thinking during discussions.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in the education sector, especially those in finance roles. Engaging with current or former leaders at similar institutions can provide valuable insights and potentially lead to referrals.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss how you can drive change and modernisation within the school’s financial operations. Highlighting your experience with systems improvement and operational efficiency will set you apart from other candidates.
✨Tip Number 4
Showcase your collaborative skills by preparing examples of how you've successfully influenced stakeholders at a board level. This role requires strong communication, so being able to articulate your leadership style is crucial.
We think you need these skills to ace Director of Finance & Business
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Before applying, take the time to thoroughly understand the responsibilities and expectations of the Director of Finance & Business position. Highlight your relevant experience in strategic planning, governance, and financial management in your application.
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV reflects your qualifications as a qualified accountant and your senior leadership experience. Emphasise your ability to balance operational detail with strategic thinking, and include examples of how you've influenced at board level.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that not only outlines your skills and experiences but also demonstrates your passion for education and values-led leadership. Mention specific initiatives or changes you have driven in previous roles that align with the school's mission.
Proofread and Edit: Before submitting your application, carefully proofread all documents for spelling and grammatical errors. A polished application reflects your attention to detail and professionalism, which are crucial for a leadership role.
How to prepare for a job interview at Distinct Recruitment
✨Understand the Bigger Picture
This role isn't just about numbers; it's about strategic leadership and long-term impact. Make sure to articulate how your financial expertise can contribute to the school's broader goals and values.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
As a Director of Finance & Business, you'll be part of the Executive Leadership Team. Prepare examples of how you've successfully led cross-functional teams and influenced decision-making at a senior level.
✨Demonstrate Commercial Awareness
Be ready to discuss how you can drive change and bring fresh thinking to the school. Highlight any previous experience in education, charity, or regulated environments that showcases your ability to navigate these sectors.
✨Prepare for Governance and Compliance Questions
Since this role includes responsibilities like Company Secretary and Privacy Compliance Lead, brush up on relevant regulations and governance practices. Be prepared to discuss how you would ensure compliance and manage legal matters effectively.
