At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead finance and governance, shaping strategy and ensuring compliance.
- Company: Purpose-driven public sector organisation making a real impact in Northern Ireland.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, generous leave, attractive pension, and hybrid working options.
- Other info: Dynamic environment with opportunities for career growth and development.
- Why this job: Join a strategic leadership role with significant influence and long-term stability.
- Qualifications: Professional accountancy qualification and 5+ years' experience managing large budgets.
The predicted salary is between 61673 - 64469 £ per year.
Hays are proud to be working with a high-profile, purpose-led public sector organisation to recruit a Head of Finance & Governance. This is a unique opportunity to step into a strategic leadership role within an organisation delivering vital services across Northern Ireland, offering an excellent package including 25 days' annual leave rising to 30 days plus 12 public/privilege holidays, access to a highly attractive defined benefit pension, hybrid flexible working, a 37-hour week, and a permanent full-time contract based in central Belfast.
As a key member of the Senior Management Team, you will lead the Finance & Governance function, providing strategic direction while ensuring robust financial control, compliance, and accountability across the organisation. You will play a critical role in shaping financial strategy, strengthening governance frameworks, and supporting executive leadership and the Board with expert advice.
Key responsibilities include:
- Leading the development and delivery of financial strategy, corporate plans, and governance frameworks
- Managing a large and complex budget (£20m+), ensuring effective forecasting, reporting, and control
- Overseeing financial operations, reporting cycles, and statutory compliance
- Driving continuous improvement across systems, processes, and policies
- Leading on risk management, audit engagement, and governance assurance
- Supporting senior stakeholders, including the CEO and Board, with high-quality financial and strategic advice
- Building and maintaining strong relationships with government bodies, partners, and stakeholders
- Leading, developing, and motivating a high-performing finance and governance team
This is a highly visible leadership role with significant influence across organisational direction and performance.
What you'll need to succeed:
- Full professional accountancy qualification (ACA / ACCA / CIMA / CIPFA or equivalent)
- At least 5 years' post-qualified experience
- Proven experience managing large, complex budgets (£10m+)
- Experience operating within a public-facing or service delivery environment
- Senior leadership experience advising Boards and committees on governance, finance, and risk
- Strong stakeholder management skills, with the ability to influence at senior level
Desirable:
- Experience within a public sector or regulated governance environment
- Exposure to oversight of governance processes (e.g. audit, complaints, compliance frameworks)
What you'll get in return:
- Salary: £61,673 - £64,469
- Annual leave: 25 days rising to 30 days (plus 12 public/privilege days)
- Pension: Access to an attractive defined benefit public sector scheme
- Flexible working: Hybrid model
- Hours: 37 hours per week, Monday-Friday
- Job security: Permanent, full-time appointment
- Location: Central Belfast offices
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 on your career.
Head of Finance and Governance employer: Hays
Join a high-profile, purpose-led public sector organisation in central Belfast as the Head of Finance and Governance, where you will enjoy a supportive work culture that prioritises employee well-being and professional growth. With an excellent benefits package including generous annual leave, a defined benefit pension scheme, and hybrid working options, this role offers a unique opportunity to make a meaningful impact while enjoying long-term job security in a collaborative environment.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Finance and Governance
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the finance sector, especially those who have experience in public organisations. A friendly chat can lead to insider info about job openings or even a referral.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the organisation's financial strategies and governance frameworks. Show them you’re not just another candidate; you’re someone who understands their mission and can contribute to it.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your pitch! Be ready to explain how your experience with large budgets and governance can directly benefit the organisation. Confidence is key, so rehearse until it feels natural.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take that extra step to connect with us directly.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Finance and Governance
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the Head of Finance and Governance role. Highlight your relevant experience, especially in managing large budgets and providing strategic financial advice. We want to see how your skills align with what we're looking for!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're passionate about this role and how your background makes you the perfect fit. Don’t forget to mention your leadership experience and stakeholder management skills – they’re key for us!
Showcase Your Achievements:When detailing your experience, focus on specific achievements that demonstrate your ability to lead finance and governance functions. Numbers speak volumes, so if you’ve improved processes or saved costs, let us know!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother application process. It helps us keep track of your application and ensures you don’t miss out on any important updates. Plus, it’s super easy!
How to prepare for a job interview at Hays
✨Know Your Numbers
As a Head of Finance and Governance, you’ll need to demonstrate your expertise in managing large budgets. Brush up on your financial metrics and be ready to discuss how you've successfully managed complex budgets in the past. Prepare specific examples that highlight your forecasting and reporting skills.
✨Understand Governance Frameworks
This role requires a solid understanding of governance frameworks. Familiarise yourself with the organisation's governance processes and be prepared to discuss how you’ve improved compliance and accountability in previous roles. Show them you can lead on risk management and audit engagement.
✨Build Relationships
Strong stakeholder management is key for this position. Think about how you’ve built relationships with senior stakeholders in the past. Be ready to share examples of how you’ve influenced decision-making at the board level and how you can bring that experience to their organisation.
✨Show Your Leadership Style
As a senior leader, your ability to motivate and develop a team is crucial. Reflect on your leadership style and prepare to discuss how you’ve led high-performing teams. Share specific strategies you’ve used to foster a positive work environment and drive continuous improvement.
