At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead financial strategy and governance for an education and training organisation.
- Company: Dynamic organisation focused on improving education through strong financial frameworks.
- Benefits: Fully remote role with competitive salary and opportunities for professional growth.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in education while shaping financial strategies for sustainability.
- Qualifications: Qualified ACA, ACCA, or CIMA with senior finance leadership experience.
- Other info: Join a collaborative team dedicated to enhancing educational outcomes.
The predicted salary is between 48000 - 72000 ÂŁ per year.
This education and training organisation is continuing to develop its offering while strengthening the financial framework that supports delivery, funding, and long‑term sustainability. Operating across multiple programmes and stakeholders, the business is focused on improving financial planning, reporting, and governance to support growth and impact. They are now seeking a Finance Director to lead the finance function and act as a strategic partner to the leadership team.
This is a fully remote position.
The Role
Reporting to the Chief Executive and working closely with senior leadership, the Finance Director will take ownership of financial strategy, control, and performance insight across the organisation. The role combines strategic leadership with hands‑on oversight, supporting funding models, operational decision‑making, and strong financial governance in a regulated and outcome‑focused environment.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead the development and delivery of the financial strategy in line with organisational objectives
- Partner with the Chief Executive and leadership team on strategic planning and long‑term sustainability
- Oversee budgeting, forecasting, and cash flow management across programmes and services
- Ensure robust financial controls, governance, and risk management frameworks are in place
- Manage statutory reporting, audit processes, and compliance with funding and regulatory requirements
- Provide clear financial reporting and insight to senior leadership and governance bodies
- Support funding arrangements, contract management, and stakeholder reporting
- Lead, develop, and mentor the finance team, embedding strong standards and accountability
- Contribute financial insight to new programme development, investment decisions, and growth initiatives
Candidate Profile
- ACA, ACCA, or CIMA qualified
- Senior finance leadership experience within education, training, public‑sector‑adjacent, or service‑led environments
- Strong technical accounting background with a sound understanding of governance and compliance
- Experience working with funding models, contracts, or grant‑based income
- Confident operating at leadership level, able to influence and challenge constructively
- Commercially minded, with the ability to balance impact, sustainability, and control
- Clear communicator with experience engaging senior stakeholders and governing bodies
Finance Director in Bristol employer: Harper May
Contact Detail:
Harper May Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Finance Director in Bristol
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the education and training sector. We all know that sometimes it’s not just what you know, but who you know. Attend virtual events or webinars to meet potential employers and showcase your expertise.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for those interviews! Research the organisation thoroughly and understand their financial strategies and challenges. We want you to be able to discuss how your experience aligns with their goals, especially around governance and compliance.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your leadership skills! When you get the chance to speak with hiring managers, highlight your experience in mentoring finance teams and driving strategic initiatives. We need to see how you can contribute to their long-term sustainability.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. We’re here to support you every step of the way, so make sure you take advantage of all the resources we offer.
We think you need these skills to ace Finance Director in Bristol
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV speaks directly to the Finance Director role. Highlight your experience in financial strategy and governance, and don’t forget to mention any relevant qualifications like ACA, ACCA, or CIMA. We want to see how you can bring value to our team!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're the perfect fit for this role. Share specific examples of how you've led financial strategies or improved governance in previous roles. We love a good story that showcases your skills!
Showcase Your Leadership Skills: As a Finance Director, you'll be leading a team and working closely with senior leadership. Make sure to highlight your experience in mentoring and developing finance teams, as well as your ability to influence and challenge constructively. We’re looking for someone who can inspire others!
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother application process. It helps us keep everything organised and ensures your application gets the attention it deserves. Plus, it’s super easy – just a few clicks and you’re done!
How to prepare for a job interview at Harper May
✨Know Your Numbers
As a Finance Director, you’ll need to demonstrate your financial acumen. Brush up on key financial metrics relevant to the organisation and be ready to discuss how you've used them in past roles. This shows you’re not just a number cruncher but a strategic thinker.
✨Understand the Organisation's Mission
Familiarise yourself with the education and training sector, especially how financial strategies can impact growth and sustainability. Be prepared to discuss how your financial leadership can align with their mission and enhance their offerings.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect questions that ask how you would handle specific financial challenges or decisions. Think of examples from your experience where you’ve successfully navigated similar situations, showcasing your problem-solving skills and strategic thinking.
✨Engage with the Leadership Team
Since this role involves partnering with the Chief Executive and other leaders, practice articulating your thoughts clearly and confidently. Show that you can influence and challenge constructively, which is crucial for a Finance Director.