At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead financial strategy and manage a high-performing finance team at a prestigious university.
- Company: Join a respected University of Cambridge College with a collaborative culture.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, generous holiday allowance, attractive pension, and health benefits.
- Other info: Enjoy a hybrid work model and a stimulating environment for professional growth.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in a high-stakes leadership role within a renowned institution.
- Qualifications: Fully qualified accountant with strong leadership and strategic skills.
The predicted salary is between 68000 - 73000 £ 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 include:
- 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 (c. £68,000‑£73,000, depending on experience), generous holiday allowance, attractive pension scheme, and 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. If you're interested in learning more, or would like a confidential discussion, please get in touch or apply directly.
Head of Finance. Job in Cambridge Education & Training Jobs employer: Heap & Co
Joining the University of Cambridge College as the Head of Finance offers an exceptional opportunity to lead a dynamic finance team in a prestigious educational setting. With a strong emphasis on employee growth, a collaborative work culture, and a comprehensive benefits package including generous holidays and a robust pension scheme, this role not only allows for strategic influence but also supports your professional development in a stimulating environment.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Finance. Job in Cambridge Education & Training Jobs
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the finance sector, especially those who have experience in education or similar environments. 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. This shows you're genuinely interested and ready to contribute to their goals. Plus, it gives you great talking points during the interview!
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your leadership stories! Be ready to share examples of how you've led teams and managed financial challenges. We want to hear about your successes and how you can bring that experience to the Head of Finance role.
✨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 the initiative to engage directly with us.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Finance. Job in Cambridge Education & Training Jobs
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the Head of Finance role. Highlight your leadership experience and any relevant financial qualifications. 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 the perfect fit for this position. Share specific examples of your achievements in finance and how they relate to our needs at the University of Cambridge College.
Showcase Your Leadership Skills:Since this role involves leading a multi-disciplinary team, make sure to emphasise your leadership capabilities. We love to see how you've developed teams and driven financial strategy in your previous roles.
Apply Through Our Website:Don't forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity. We can’t wait to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at Heap & Co
✨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 role. Be prepared to discuss how you've used financial data to drive strategic decisions in your previous roles.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
This position requires strong leadership capabilities. Think of examples where you've successfully led a team or managed a project. Be ready to share how you developed your team members and fostered a collaborative environment.
✨Understand the Organisation's Goals
Research the University of Cambridge College and its financial strategies. Understand their mission and how the finance function supports it. This will help you align your answers with their objectives during the interview.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect questions that assess your problem-solving skills in complex environments. Prepare scenarios where you've navigated financial challenges or compliance issues. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your responses effectively.
