At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and transform financial systems while maximising efficiency and value for money.
- Company: Outstanding General Further Education College, recognised for exceptional employee experience.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, supportive culture, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Join a collaborative team in a dynamic environment focused on excellence.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on financial strategy in a top-rated educational institution.
- Qualifications: Fully qualified accountant with experience in managing finance functions.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 75000 £ per year.
Our client has been rated ‘Outstanding’ by Ofsted following its most recent inspection and is one of only a small number of General Further Education Colleges nationally to achieve this prestigious rating. Named one of The Sunday Times Best Places to Work 2025, the College is recognised for its exceptional employee experience and organisational culture, with staff engagement and confidence in leadership significantly above the national average.
Our client is seeking a Head of Finance to provide strong leadership and transform the College’s financial systems, finance, reporting and planning, with a relentless focus on maximising efficiency and value for money. You will lead a respected, collaborative professional team, deliver robust financial monitoring and analysis, and work closely with the Senior Leadership Team to support strategic decision-making.
Responsibilities:
- Provide strong leadership and transform the College’s financial systems, finance, reporting and planning with a focus on efficiency and value for money.
- Lead a collaborative professional finance team and deliver robust financial monitoring and analysis.
- Work closely with the Senior Leadership Team to support strategic decision-making.
Qualifications:
- Fully qualified accountant.
- Significant experience leading and managing a finance function in a complex organisation.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Finance 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 FEA. 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 Head of Finance 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 FEA.
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 FEA'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 FEA
✨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 FEA.
✨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 FEA 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 FEA 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.
