At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a high-performing finance team and shape long-term financial strategies.
- Company: Join Halton Housing, an award-winning housing association making a real difference.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, hybrid working, generous pension, and holiday entitlement.
- Other info: Opportunity for strategic influence in a supportive, purpose-driven environment.
- Why this job: Make a significant impact on communities while gaining Board-level exposure.
- Qualifications: Recognised accounting qualification and experience in housing associations required.
Halton Housing is an award-winning housing association managing over 7,000 homes across Cheshire and the North West, committed to its purpose of Improving People's Lives. More than just a housing provider, Halton Housing supports customers at every stage of their journey - from renting and shared ownership to outright homeownership - while continuing to invest in both new and existing homes. Over the last three years, the organisation has delivered over 200 new homes, with ambitious plans to deliver around 300 additional affordable homes between 2026 and 2029.
As an anchor organisation and one of the largest local employers, Halton Housing employs around 300 people and plays a vital role in shaping thriving, sustainable communities - backed by significant ongoing investment, including £19m into existing homes in the last year alone. This is a rare opportunity to join a financially strong, forward-thinking organisation that blends commercial rigour with clear social purpose and long-term growth ambition.
Reporting directly to the Chief Financial Officer and sitting on the Leadership Team, you will play a critical role in ensuring the organisation remains financially robust, compliant, and well-positioned for the future. Key responsibilities include:
- Leading and developing a high-performing finance team, driving excellence and continuous improvement
- Shaping and delivering long-term financial planning, including complex modelling and scenario analysis
- Partnering with the Board, Executive and senior leaders to inform strategic decision-making
- Co-leading the organisation's treasury strategy, including funding, cashflow management, and lender relationships
- Ensuring compliance with regulatory standards, audit requirements, and financial covenants
- Overseeing high-quality financial and performance reporting to internal and external stakeholders
- Strengthening internal controls and governance frameworks
- Aligning financial strategy with wider organisational objectives and growth ambitions
This is a broad, impactful role - combining strategy, leadership, governance, and commercial insight - with genuine influence at Board level.
To thrive in this role, you will bring a blend of technical excellence, leadership capability, and strategic thinking:
- A recognised accounting qualification (ACA, ACCA or equivalent)
- Housing Association experience is essential for this role.
- Proven experience working with Boards, Committees, and senior stakeholders, presenting complex financial insights with impact
- Strong track record in financial planning, business modelling, and risk management
- Demonstrable leadership experience, with the ability to motivate, develop and inspire teams
- Excellent communication skills and executive presence, with credibility to influence at all levels
- A proactive, solutions-focused mindset with a commitment to continuous improvement
This is more than a finance role - it is a chance to shape the future of an organisation that makes a real difference. You will gain Board-level exposure, strategic influence, and the opportunity to contribute to communities across the region, all within a supportive and purpose-driven environment. In addition to a competitive salary, you will receive a fantastic benefits package including Hybrid working and a generous pension and holiday entitlement.
If you are looking for your next step-change leadership role where you can combine technical expertise with the opportunity to impact the future development of a very special organisation, then we are keen to hear from you.
Please click apply to send your cv to Hays and you will be contacted by our retained consultant Mike McGibbon for a confidential discussion.
Director of Finance in Widnes employer: Hays
Halton Housing is an exceptional employer, offering a unique opportunity to lead financial strategy within a forward-thinking housing association dedicated to improving lives in the community. With a strong commitment to employee development, a supportive work culture, and a focus on social purpose, you will play a pivotal role in shaping sustainable communities while enjoying competitive benefits such as hybrid working and a generous pension scheme. Join us in making a meaningful impact while advancing your career in a dynamic and rewarding environment.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Director of Finance in Widnes
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the housing sector and let them know you're on the lookout for opportunities. You never know who might have the inside scoop on a role that’s perfect for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching Halton Housing thoroughly. Understand their mission, recent projects, and financial strategies. This will help you tailor your responses and show that you’re genuinely interested in making an impact.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your pitch! Be ready to articulate your leadership style and how your experience aligns with the role of Director of Finance. Confidence is key, so rehearse your answers to common interview questions.
✨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 a forward-thinking organisation like Halton Housing.
We think you need these skills to ace Director of Finance in Widnes
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the Director of Finance role. Highlight your relevant experience in housing associations and showcase your leadership skills. We want to see how you can bring value to Halton Housing!
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 aligns with Halton Housing's mission. Let us see your personality and enthusiasm for the position.
Showcase Your Financial Acumen:In your application, be sure to highlight your technical expertise in financial planning and risk management. We’re looking for someone who can demonstrate their ability to influence strategic decisions at a board level.
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensure it gets the attention it deserves. 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 be ready to discuss how you've used them in past roles. Prepare examples of complex financial modelling or scenario analysis you've conducted.
✨Showcase Leadership Skills
This role requires strong leadership capabilities. Think about times when you've motivated and developed a team. Be prepared to share specific examples that highlight your ability to inspire others and drive excellence within a finance team.
✨Understand the Organisation's Mission
Halton Housing is all about improving people's lives. Familiarise yourself with their mission and values. During the interview, connect your experience and vision to their goals, showing how you can contribute to their purpose-driven approach.
✨Prepare for Board-Level Discussions
You’ll be working closely with the Board and senior stakeholders. Practice articulating complex financial insights clearly and confidently. Think about how you can present your ideas in a way that resonates with non-financial audiences, showcasing your executive presence.
