At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead financial strategy and manage a high-performing finance team.
- Company: Join a prestigious University of Cambridge College with a collaborative culture.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, health benefits, and a stimulating work environment.
- Other info: Hybrid working model with excellent career growth opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in a respected institution while shaping financial futures.
- Qualifications: Fully qualified accountant with strong leadership and strategic skills.
The predicted salary is between 68000 - 72800 € per year.
An outstanding opportunity has arisen for a Head of Finance to join a University of Cambridge College. This position offers the chance to play a key role in shaping financial strategy, leading a high-performing team, and supporting the long-term sustainability of a complex and diverse organisation, in one of the best settings in Cambridge. You will work on a hybrid basis with a minimum of 3 days per week in the office.
The Role
Reporting to the Senior Bursar, you will be responsible for delivering a full range of financial services, ensuring robust financial management, compliance, and strategic planning across the organisation. Key responsibilities include:
- Leading the finance function, managing and developing a multi-disciplinary team
- Overseeing the preparation of monthly and annual financial reports and statutory accounts
- Supporting long‑term financial strategy, planning, and budgeting processes
- Ensuring strong financial controls, systems, and governance frameworks
- Managing relationships with auditors, regulators, and external stakeholders
- Overseeing treasury, cashflow management, and investment reporting
- Providing insightful financial analysis to support decision‑making across the organisation
About You
We are seeking a qualified finance professional with strong leadership capability and the ability to operate at a strategic level. Key requirements:
- Fully qualified accountant (ACA / ACCA / CIMA or equivalent)
- Significant post‑qualification experience in a senior finance role
- Strong technical expertise in financial reporting, controls, and compliance
- Experience leading and developing teams
- Excellent communication skills, with the ability to engage non‑finance stakeholders
- Strong analytical mindset and commercial awareness
- Experience within complex or regulated environments (e.g. education, charity, or similar) is advantageous.
What’s on Offer
Competitive salary (£68,000–£72,800, depending on experience) Access to a wide range of health, wellbeing, and lifestyle benefits A collaborative and intellectually stimulating working environment.
Why Apply?
This is a unique opportunity to take on a high‑impact leadership role within a respected institution, offering both strategic influence and operational responsibility.
Head of Finance in Ely employer: Heap & Co - Accountancy & Finance Recruitment Specialists
Joining a University of Cambridge College as the Head of Finance means becoming part of a prestigious institution that values collaboration and intellectual growth. With a competitive salary and a comprehensive range of health and wellbeing benefits, you will thrive in a supportive environment that encourages professional development and strategic influence. This role not only offers the chance to lead a talented team but also to contribute to the long-term sustainability of a diverse organisation in one of the most inspiring settings in Cambridge.
Contact Detail:
Heap & Co - Accountancy & Finance Recruitment Specialists Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Finance in Ely
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the finance sector, especially those who have ties to educational institutions. A friendly chat can lead to insider info about job openings or even a referral.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the college's financial strategies and recent developments. Show us that you’re not just a numbers person but also someone who understands the unique challenges of the education sector.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your leadership pitch! As a Head of Finance, you’ll need to demonstrate your ability to lead a team effectively. Share examples of how you've developed teams and improved financial processes in past roles.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive about their job search.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Finance in Ely
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV reflects the key skills and experiences mentioned in the job description. Highlight your leadership capabilities and any relevant financial expertise to show us you’re the perfect fit for the Head of Finance role.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to tell us why you’re passionate about this position and how your background aligns with our needs. Be sure to mention your experience in strategic planning and team management.
Showcase Your Achievements:When detailing your experience, focus on specific achievements that demonstrate your impact in previous roles. Use numbers and examples to illustrate how you’ve successfully led teams or improved financial processes.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you don’t miss out on any important updates regarding the recruitment process.
How to prepare for a job interview at Heap & Co - Accountancy & Finance Recruitment Specialists
✨Know Your Numbers
As a Head of Finance, you’ll need to demonstrate your financial acumen. Brush up on key financial metrics and reports relevant to the university sector. Be ready to discuss how you've used financial data to drive strategic decisions in your previous roles.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
This role requires strong leadership capabilities. Prepare examples of how you've successfully led and developed teams in the past. Think about specific challenges you faced and how you motivated your team to achieve results.
✨Understand the Organisation's Goals
Research the University of Cambridge College and its financial strategy. Familiarise yourself with their mission and values, and be prepared to discuss how your vision aligns with theirs. This shows that you’re not just looking for a job, but are genuinely interested in contributing to their success.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect scenario-based questions that assess your problem-solving skills and strategic thinking. Practice articulating your thought process when faced with financial challenges, such as budget cuts or compliance issues, and how you would navigate these situations effectively.
