At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and shape the finance function while mentoring a capable team.
- Company: Forward-thinking organisation in Chelmsford with a strong leadership team.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, hybrid working, and clear career progression opportunities.
- Other info: Central location with flexible working arrangements.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in a newly created role with long-term growth potential.
- Qualifications: Proven senior finance leadership experience, ideally in Further Education or similar sectors.
Qualified Accountant needed for Director of Finance role in Chelmsford (Central Location) Hybrid Working - 4 Days in Office £75,000 - £80,000 + Benefits.
We are excited to be partnering with a forward-thinking organisation in Chelmsford to appoint a Director of Finance in a newly created leadership role. This is an excellent opportunity to shape and elevate the finance function while joining a well-established senior leadership team.
The Opportunity
Reporting directly to an experienced Chief Operating Officer, this role has been created to strengthen financial leadership, enhance reporting standards, and drive continuous improvement across the finance function. You will lead a small but capable team, consisting of 1 direct report and 7 indirect reports, with the autonomy and support to implement change and make a lasting impact. There is also clear long-term progression potential, with scope for this position to evolve into a future COO pathway for the right individual.
Key Responsibilities
- Provide strategic financial leadership across the organisation
- Enhance and elevate financial reporting, controls, and governance
- Lead, develop and mentor the finance team
- Partner with senior stakeholders to support commercial and operational decision-making
- Drive process improvements and efficiencies within the finance function
- Support long-term planning, budgeting, and forecasting
About You
- Proven track record in a senior finance leadership role (Head of Finance or above)
- Experience within Further Education is highly desirable
- Candidates from Charities, Not-for-Profit, Education, Public Sector, or Commercial sectors will also be considered
- Strong leadership skills with experience managing and developing teams
- Ability to influence at senior level and drive change
This role would suit a locally based candidate in the Mid Essex region seeking their next career step, including individuals looking to transition from Head of Finance into their first Director-level position.
Why Apply?
- Newly created role with genuine scope to shape the function
- Clear progression and long-term career opportunity
- Highly visible position within the senior leadership team
- Central Chelmsford location with hybrid flexibility
If you're interested in this role, click 'apply now' to forward an up-to-date copy of your CV, or call us now. If this job isn't quite right for you, but you are looking for a new position, please contact us for a confidential discussion about your career.
Director of Finance in Chelmsford employer: Hays
Join a forward-thinking organisation in Chelmsford as the Director of Finance, where you will have the opportunity to shape the finance function and drive meaningful change. With a supportive senior leadership team and a clear pathway for career progression, this role offers a unique chance to enhance your professional growth while enjoying a hybrid working model that promotes work-life balance. The central location provides easy access to amenities, making it an attractive workplace for those seeking a fulfilling and impactful career.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Director of Finance in Chelmsford
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the finance sector, especially those who might know about opportunities in Chelmsford. A personal recommendation can make all the difference when you're aiming for that Director of Finance role.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the company and its financial practices. Understand their challenges and think about how you can bring value. This shows you're not just interested in the role but are ready to make an impact from day one!
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your leadership stories! Be ready to share examples of how you've led teams and driven change in previous roles. Highlighting your experience in enhancing financial reporting and governance will resonate well with the hiring team.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we’re here to support you every step of the way in landing that dream job in finance.
We think you need these skills to ace Director of Finance in Chelmsford
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV reflects the skills and experiences that align with the Director of Finance role. Highlight your leadership experience and any relevant achievements in financial management to catch our eye!
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, focusing on your strategic vision and how you can elevate our finance function. Keep it engaging and personal.
Showcase Your Leadership Style:We want to know how you lead and develop teams! Share examples of how you've mentored others and driven change in previous roles. This will help us see your potential impact on our finance team.
Apply Through Our Website:For the best chance of success, make sure to apply through our website. It’s the easiest way for us to review your application and get back to you quickly. We can't wait to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at Hays
✨Know Your Numbers
As a Director of Finance, you’ll need to demonstrate your financial acumen. Brush up on key financial metrics and reporting standards relevant to the organisation. Be ready to discuss how you've improved financial processes in your previous roles.
✨Showcase Leadership Skills
This role involves leading a team, so be prepared to share specific examples of how you've developed and mentored finance teams in the past. Highlight your leadership style and how it aligns with the company's vision for financial leadership.
✨Understand the Business Landscape
Familiarise yourself with the organisation's sector, especially if they operate within Further Education or Not-for-Profit. Being able to speak knowledgeably about industry challenges and opportunities will set you apart from other candidates.
✨Prepare for Strategic Discussions
Expect questions around strategic financial leadership and decision-making. Think about how you can partner with senior stakeholders to drive change and improve efficiencies. Prepare to discuss your approach to long-term planning and budgeting.
