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- Tasks: Lead financial strategy and governance to drive innovation in education.
- Company: Join a dynamic organisation committed to outstanding outcomes for learners.
- Benefits: Enjoy 45 days holiday, a generous pension, and hybrid working options.
- Why this job: Shape the future of education with your strategic financial leadership.
- Qualifications: Senior-level financial management experience and a relevant accounting qualification required.
- Other info: Be part of a collaborative team that values empowerment and continuous improvement.
The predicted salary is between 72000 - 108000 £ per year.
Hutcheon Mearns are partnering with an ambitious organisation in the education sector. who is seeking to appoint an experienced Chief Financial Officer (CFO) to join its Senior Leadership Team. This pivotal role will provide the strategic financial leadership that underpins long-term sustainability, enables innovation, and supports the delivery of outstanding outcomes for learners and the wider community.
Working closely with the Principal and Board, the CFO will play a critical role in shaping financial strategy, ensuring robust governance, and leading the teams that deliver essential financial and business services.
Key responsibilities include:
- Setting clear financial strategy and direction to enable effective planning, control, and decision-making at Board and executive level
- Delivering accurate, timely management accounts, reports, and forecasts to inform financial planning across the organisation
- Maintaining robust financial systems and ensuring compliance with accounting, legal, and tax requirements, supported by strong internal controls
- Leading the planning and management of major revenue and capital investment projects, ensuring risks and opportunities are fully understood
- Driving efficiencies across professional services and seeking opportunities for commercialisation and income generation
- Providing leadership to teams across finance, payroll, procurement, risk management, and business continuity
- Acting as a key member of the Senior Leadership Team, contributing to organisational strategy and supporting the wider management team
About you:
We are looking for a dynamic and people-focused leader who brings:
- Significant senior-level financial management experience within the education, public, or third sectors
- A relevant professional accounting qualification and current membership of a recognised accounting body
- Significant experience managing complex financial accounts and statutory returns for government/funding bodies
- Expertise in developing budgets, financial strategies, and business plans, with strong awareness of external influences at local, regional, and national levels
- A proven track record in transformation projects, cultural change, and driving efficiencies with tangible results
- Strong experience in building high-performing teams, fostering a culture of empowerment, innovation, and continuous improvement
- Deep experience of compliance, internal controls, and working with auditors and regulators
- Highly developed financial management, reporting, and long-term resource allocation skills
- Excellent communication, interpersonal, and influencing skills, with the ability to engage effectively at all levels
- Commercial awareness, with the ability to horizon scan and identify opportunities for growth and sustainability
- The resilience and adaptability to deliver at pace in a challenging financial landscape
This is an exciting opportunity for a collaborative, strategic thinker with energy, vision, and a \”can do\” attitude to play a central role in shaping the future of the organisation.
- 15.7% pension, 45 days hols, 3 day hybrid.
- Dundee, Dundee / Angus
- Tuesday 30 September 2025
- Permanent
- ref 3792
Chief Financial Officer employer: Hutcheon Mearns Ltd
Contact Detail:
Hutcheon Mearns Ltd Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Chief Financial Officer
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the education sector and let them know you're on the lookout for a CFO role. You never know who might have the inside scoop on opportunities or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the organisation thoroughly. Understand their financial strategies, recent projects, and challenges they face. This will help you tailor your responses and show that you're genuinely interested in shaping their future.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your leadership skills during interviews. Share specific examples of how you've built high-performing teams and driven efficiencies in previous roles. This will demonstrate that you have what it takes to lead the finance team effectively.
✨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 about their job search.
We think you need these skills to ace Chief Financial Officer
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV speaks directly to the role of CFO. Highlight your senior-level financial management experience and any relevant qualifications. We want to see how your background aligns with our mission in the education sector!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to showcase your strategic thinking and leadership skills. Tell us why you're passionate about shaping financial strategy in education and how you can contribute to our goals.
Showcase Your Achievements: Don’t just list your responsibilities; highlight your achievements! Share specific examples of how you've driven efficiencies or led transformation projects. We love seeing tangible results that demonstrate your impact.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother process. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you don’t miss out on any important updates from our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Hutcheon Mearns Ltd
✨Know Your Numbers
As a CFO, you'll need to demonstrate your financial acumen. Brush up on key financial metrics and be ready to discuss how you've used them to drive strategic decisions in previous roles. This shows you’re not just about the numbers but also about how they impact the organisation's goals.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Style
This role is all about leading teams and influencing at all levels. Prepare examples of how you've built high-performing teams and fostered a culture of empowerment and innovation. Be ready to discuss specific challenges you've faced and how you overcame them.
✨Understand the Education Sector
Familiarise yourself with current trends and challenges in the education sector. Be prepared to discuss how these factors influence financial strategy and decision-making. Showing that you understand the landscape will set you apart from other candidates.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect to face scenario-based questions that assess your problem-solving skills and strategic thinking. Think through potential financial challenges the organisation might face and how you would address them. This will demonstrate your readiness to tackle real-world issues head-on.
