At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead financial strategy and drive operational efficiency in a dynamic educational environment.
- Company: Respected Multi-Academy Trust making a real difference in education.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, excellent benefits, and a purpose-driven culture.
- Other info: Collaborative culture with opportunities for personal and professional growth.
- Why this job: Shape the future of finance operations while influencing Trust-wide strategy.
- Qualifications: CCAB qualified accountant with senior finance leadership experience.
The predicted salary is between 64000 - 71000 € per year.
HB Partners Limited is working with a highly respected and growing Multi-Academy Trust to appoint an exceptional Director of Finance. This is a strategic leadership role for a qualified finance professional who wants to make a genuine impact across education, operations, and long-term organisational success. You’ll work closely with the CFOO, CEO, Trustees, and Headteachers to lead financial strategy, strengthen operational efficiency, and ensure robust financial governance across the Trust.
Key responsibilities include:
- Leading strategic financial planning and forecasting
- Overseeing Trust-wide budgets, reporting, and compliance
- Driving financial controls, audit, and risk management
- Supporting growth plans and organisational change
- Developing finance systems, automation, and reporting tools
- Leading and developing a high-performing finance team
- Delivering value-for-money procurement and contract oversight
This role would suit someone who enjoys operating both strategically and operationally, influencing decision-making while ensuring financial excellence day-to-day.
We’re looking for:
- CCAB qualified accountant (ACA / ACCA / CIMA / CIPFA)
- Significant senior finance leadership experience
- Strong background in budgeting, forecasting, and management accounts
- Experience leading finance teams and driving improvement
- Excellent stakeholder management and communication skills
- Education, public sector, or charity sector experience highly desirable
Why apply?
- Opportunity to influence Trust-wide strategy
- Senior leadership exposure
- Purpose-driven organisation making a difference in education
- Collaborative and values-led culture
- Opportunity to shape and modernise finance operations
HB Partners is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. All appointments will be subject to enhanced DBS and pre-employment checks. HB Partners Limited is acting as a recruitment business in relation to this role.
Financial Director in Surrey employer: HB Partners Limited
HB Partners Limited is an exceptional employer, offering a unique opportunity for a Financial Director to make a significant impact within a purpose-driven Multi-Academy Trust. With a collaborative and values-led culture, employees benefit from strong leadership exposure, professional growth opportunities, and the chance to shape financial operations that directly contribute to enhancing education. Located on the Surrey/Hampshire borders, this role not only promises competitive remuneration but also the satisfaction of working in a sector dedicated to making a difference in the lives of children and young people.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Financial Director in Surrey
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the education and finance sectors. Attend events, join relevant groups, and don’t be shy about asking for introductions. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the Multi-Academy Trust landscape. Understand their financial challenges and how you can contribute to their strategic goals. Tailor your responses to show how your experience aligns with their needs.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your leadership skills! Be ready to discuss specific examples of how you've led finance teams and improved processes. Highlight your ability to influence decision-making and drive financial excellence.
✨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 are proactive and engaged in their job search.
We think you need these skills to ace Financial Director in Surrey
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 CCAB qualifications and any relevant leadership experience in finance, especially in education or public sectors.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you’re passionate about making a difference in education and how your strategic vision can benefit the Trust. Keep it concise but impactful.
Showcase Your Achievements:When detailing your past roles, focus on specific achievements that demonstrate your ability to lead financial strategy and improve operational efficiency. Numbers speak volumes, so include metrics where possible!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website for a smoother application process. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensure it gets the attention it deserves!
How to prepare for a job interview at HB Partners Limited
✨Know Your Numbers
As a Financial Director, you’ll need to demonstrate your expertise in financial planning and forecasting. Brush up on key financial metrics and be ready to discuss how you've successfully managed budgets and driven financial controls in previous roles.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Style
This role requires strong leadership skills, so think about examples that highlight your experience in leading finance teams. Be prepared to discuss how you’ve developed high-performing teams and influenced decision-making at a senior level.
✨Understand the Trust's Mission
Familiarise yourself with the Multi-Academy Trust’s goals and values. Show genuine interest in how your financial strategies can support their mission in education. This will demonstrate your commitment to making a positive impact.
✨Prepare for Stakeholder Engagement
You’ll be working closely with various stakeholders, including the CFOO and Trustees. Think of examples where you’ve effectively communicated complex financial information to non-financial audiences. This will showcase your excellent communication skills.
