At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the finance function, shaping strategy and supporting sustainable growth.
- Company: Exciting business on the outskirts of Colchester with a collaborative senior team.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, hybrid working options, and free on-site parking.
- Other info: Opportunity to develop and motivate a high-performing finance team.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in a senior role during a pivotal time for the business.
- Qualifications: Qualified accountant with significant experience in senior finance leadership.
The predicted salary is between 70000 - 75000 £ per year.
£70,000 - £75,000 a year - Full-time Monday-Friday, 9am-5pm Office based position, with free parking on-site. Hybrid working (1 day per week) available after 3-6 months.
Our client on the outskirts of Colchester are seeking a Head of Finance to join the senior team at a very exciting time for the business. The Head of Finance will provide strategic and operational leadership of the finance function, ensuring the business remains financially robust, commercially focused and well governed. As a member of the Senior Leadership Team, this position will work closely with the Chief Executive Officer, Managing Director and operational leaders to shape strategy, support sustainable growth and provide financial insight.
Key duties:
- Develop and deliver the financial strategy, aligned to corporate objectives and long-term business plans.
- Provide strategic financial advice to the Chief Executive, Managing Director, Board and Senior Leadership Team.
- Lead financial modelling and scenario planning to support growth, investment and service development.
- Monitor developments within the adult social care sector and advise on the financial impact of changes in commissioning, funding and regulation.
- Lead the annual budgeting and long-term financial planning processes.
- Develop and lead an annual strategy for fee uplifts, using financial analysis, market intelligence and benchmarking to support negotiations with local authorities, NHS commissioners and other funding bodies.
- Produce accurate monthly management accounts, forecasts, cash flow projections and performance analysis.
- Monitor financial performance, identifying emerging risks and opportunities.
- Work with operational managers to improve budget management and financial accountability.
- Prepare high-quality financial reports, forecasts and business cases for the Board.
- Present complex financial information clearly to support informed decision-making.
- Support the Board in meeting its governance responsibilities through robust financial reporting, assurance and risk management.
- Lead the financial appraisal, modelling and due diligence of acquisitions, mergers and new services.
- Work with external advisers throughout acquisition processes. Support post-acquisition integration, ensuring effective financial controls, reporting and performance monitoring.
- Ensure compliance with statutory requirements, accounting standards and regulatory obligations.
- Lead the preparation of statutory accounts and manage the external audit process.
- Oversee tax, VAT, payroll and statutory reporting requirements.
- Monitor occupancy, staffing costs, agency spend and service profitability.
- Oversee cash flow, working capital and banking arrangements.
- Ensure effective debtor management and income collection.
- Lead the development of finance systems, reporting and internal processes.
- Promote automation and technology to improve efficiency and reporting capability.
- Lead, develop and motivate the finance team, fostering a collaborative and high-performing culture.
Candidate requirements:
- Qualified accountant (ACA, ACCA, CIMA or CIPFA). Can consider QBE.
- Evidence of continuing professional development.
- Significant experience in a senior finance leadership role.
- Adult social care, healthcare or another regulated sector would be a strong advantage.
- Experience reporting to Boards or Trustees and presenting strategic financial information.
- Strong track record in budgeting, forecasting, statutory reporting and financial control.
- Experience managing external audit and regulatory compliance.
- Financial modelling, business planning and commercial decision support.
- Experience supporting acquisitions, organisational growth or major business change.
- Experience leading and developing finance teams.
Huntress does not discriminate on the grounds of age, race, gender, disability, creed or sexual orientation and complies with all relevant UK legislation.
PLEASE NOTE! You should make yourself aware of how immigration laws apply to your situation before applying for any jobs. We are acting as a Recruitment Business in relation to this role.
Head of Finance in Colchester employer: Huntress
Huntress is an excellent employer that values its employees by offering flexible working options and a competitive salary, making it an ideal place for HR professionals to thrive. With a strong focus on employee relations and compliance, the company fosters a supportive work culture that encourages professional growth and development. Located in Witham, employees benefit from free on-site parking and a collaborative environment that prioritises meaningful contributions to the organisation.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Finance in Colchester
✨Tap into Campus Networks
If you're still in uni, don’t forget to engage with your campus's career services and attend finance-related events. Banks often do presentations and recruitment drives on campus, so put yourself out there and make use of these opportunities to show off your passion for the field.
✨Get Certified
Consider pursuing relevant certifications like the CFA or ACCA while you’re job hunting. They not only beef up your CV but also connect you with professional bodies which can lead to networking opportunities and even job openings in banking and financial services.
✨Connect on Professional Platforms
Join finance-focused groups on platforms like LinkedIn and engage in discussions. This can really help you stand out from the crowd, allowing potential employers to see your knowledge and interest in industry trends. Plus, you might stumble upon job postings shared exclusively within the group.
✨Apply Directly and Be Proactive
Don’t shy away from reaching out directly to firms like Huntress. Use their websites and apply through them, but also consider following up with a polite email to express your enthusiasm. Being proactive can make a huge difference in getting noticed in the competitive financial services sector.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Finance in Colchester
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Numbers!:In the banking and financial services world, quantifiable achievements are key. Make sure your CV highlights your grades in relevant subjects, any financial certifications you hold, and specific projects where you've delivered measurable results. Employers love to see how your skills translate into real-world success.
Tailor Your Cover Letter to the Role:When applying for a full-time position, your cover letter should make a direct connection between your experience and the job description. Don't just state your enthusiasm for finance—dive into how your background in banking or financial analysis sets you apart. Let your passion shine through while being specific about what you can bring to Huntress.
Include Relevant Financial Software Experience:If you've worked with financial modelling tools or software like Excel, SAP, or specific analytical tools during your studies or internships, bring that up! Highlighting your proficiency can really make your application pop and show you're ready to hit the ground running in a full-time role.
Research and Reflect:Before hitting that 'apply' button on Huntress's website, do a little digging. Look up their recent projects, values, and culture. Reflecting their ethos in your application can make a huge difference and show you’re genuinely interested in being part of the team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Huntress
✨Brush Up on Financial Analysis Skills
Make sure you're well-versed in financial concepts and analytical techniques relevant to banking and financial services. Get comfortable with tools like Excel for modelling or financial forecasting, as technical questions in this area are common during interviews with Huntress.
✨Prepare for Case Studies
Expect to tackle case studies that demonstrate your problem-solving skills in real-world banking scenarios. Familiarise yourself with the types of problems you might face—think risk assessments or investment evaluations—and be ready to articulate your thought process clearly.
✨Show Your Passion for Finance
Since this is a full-time position, employers at Huntress will be keen to see your genuine interest in finance. Be prepared to discuss recent industry trends or news articles that excite you, showcasing your enthusiasm and engagement with the field.
✨Network with Industry Professionals
Before your interview, reach out to current or former Huntress employees on platforms like LinkedIn. They'll offer unique insights into the company's culture and the interview process, which can give us a delightful edge in showcasing a good fit for the team.
