At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead financial strategy and operations for a unique charity organisation.
- Company: Join the International Centre for Life in vibrant Newcastle.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, wellbeing initiatives, electric car scheme, and flexible working.
- Other info: Collaborative culture with opportunities for innovation and growth.
- Why this job: Make a meaningful impact while shaping financial sustainability in a mission-driven environment.
- Qualifications: Proven senior finance leadership experience and CCAB qualification.
The predicted salary is between 85000 - 90000 £ per year.
Finance Director Newcastle upon Tyne - mainly on-site working
Full-time | 37 hours per week | Permanent
Salary: £85,000 - £90,000 (flexible for the right candidate)
Shape the Financial Future of a Unique Organisation
The International Centre for Life is a distinctive, mission-driven organisation where science, education, healthcare and commercial enterprise intersect. Located in the vibrant heart of Newcastle, we bring together a science centre, NHS clinics, and world-class research facilities to inspire curiosity, improve lives, and drive innovation.
We are now seeking an outstanding Finance Director to join our Leadership Team at a pivotal moment as we strengthen financial resilience, enhance commercial performance, and invest boldly in our future.
The Opportunity
Reporting to the Chief Executive, you will lead all aspects of financial strategy and operations across a complex, multi-faceted organisation. This is a high-impact role where you will:
- Lead financial planning, budgeting, reporting and forecasting
- Ensure strong financial governance, risk management, and compliance
- Support sustainable growth by balancing charitable purpose with commercial income generation
- Provide clear, strategic financial insight to the Trust Board, subsidiary company and key committees (including audit, investment and remuneration)
- Build and develop a high-performing finance team
- Drive continuous improvement, innovation and effective use of technology across finance systems and processes
About You
We are looking for a strategic and commercially astute finance leader who can operate with both vision and precision. You will bring:
- Proven experience in a senior finance leadership role
- A CCAB qualification (or equivalent)
- Strong expertise in financial management, governance and strategic planning
- Excellent communication skills, with the confidence to influence senior stakeholders and Boards
- A collaborative leadership style and the ability to build high-performing teams
- A forward-thinking, solutions-focused mindset
- Experience within the not-for-profit sector is desirable but not essential.
Why Join Us?
Life is a welcoming and purpose-driven organisation where you can make a meaningful difference. We offer:
- A competitive salary with flexibility for the right candidate
- Wellbeing initiatives and healthcare support
- Salary sacrifice pension scheme
- Electric car scheme
- Discounted city centre parking
- A collaborative culture committed to innovation and impact
Additional Information
This role is subject to a DBS check. We are an equal opportunities employer. Proud holders of Maintaining Excellence accreditation under the Northeast Better Health at Work Scheme. Registered Charity Number: 1059607.
Apply Now. For further details, please refer to the applicant pack on our website. To apply or for an informal discussion, please contact: Rachael Richards: Rachael.Richards@hays.com 07778651625. Closing date: 14 June 2026. Interview dates: TBC - June/July. Join us and play a key role in shaping the financial sustainability of an organisation that changes lives through science.
Finance Director in Newcastle upon Tyne employer: Hays
The International Centre for Life is an exceptional employer located in the vibrant heart of Newcastle, offering a unique opportunity to shape the financial future of a mission-driven organisation that intersects science, education, healthcare, and commercial enterprise. With a strong commitment to employee wellbeing, competitive salaries, and a collaborative culture focused on innovation and impact, we provide our Finance Director with the chance to lead a high-performing team while making a meaningful difference in the community. Join us to be part of a forward-thinking organisation that values strategic insight and fosters professional growth.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Finance Director in Newcastle upon Tyne
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Get out there and connect with people in the finance sector, especially those who have ties to charities or non-profits. Attend events, join relevant groups on LinkedIn, and don’t be shy about reaching out for informational chats.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the organisation inside out. Understand their mission, values, and recent projects. This will help you tailor your responses and show that you're genuinely interested in making a difference at the International Centre for Life.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your pitch! Be ready to articulate your vision for financial strategy and how you can enhance commercial performance. Use examples from your past experiences to demonstrate your leadership style and problem-solving skills.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining our team and contributing to our mission-driven work.
We think you need these skills to ace Finance Director in Newcastle upon Tyne
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV reflects the skills and experiences that align with the Finance Director role. Highlight your financial leadership experience and any relevant qualifications, like your CCAB certification, to catch our eye!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're passionate about joining us at the International Centre for Life and how you can contribute to our mission. Be specific about your vision for financial strategy.
Showcase Your Achievements:Don’t just list your responsibilities; showcase your achievements in previous roles. Use numbers and examples to demonstrate how you've driven financial performance and governance in past positions.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets into the right hands and shows your enthusiasm for the role. Plus, you’ll find all the details you need there!
How to prepare for a job interview at Hays
✨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 prepared to discuss how you've used these in past roles. This shows you’re not just a number cruncher but a strategic thinker.
✨Understand the Mission
Familiarise yourself with the International Centre for Life’s mission and values. Be ready to articulate how your financial strategies can support their charitable goals while ensuring commercial viability. This alignment will resonate well with the interviewers.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect questions that assess your problem-solving skills in real-world scenarios. Think of examples where you’ve successfully navigated financial challenges or improved processes. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your responses.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Style
The role requires building a high-performing finance team, so be prepared to discuss your leadership approach. Share specific examples of how you’ve developed teams in the past and fostered collaboration. This will highlight your fit for the collaborative culture they value.
