At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead financial management and strategy for a leading further education college.
- Company: St Helens College, dedicated to transforming lives through learning.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, generous leave, pension scheme, and professional development opportunities.
- Other info: Join a supportive team committed to continuous improvement and collaboration.
- Why this job: Shape the future of education while driving financial excellence.
- Qualifications: Qualified accountant with strong leadership and financial expertise.
The predicted salary is between 65000 - 70000 £ per year.
Salary: £65,000 - £70,000 per annum
Hours: 36 hours per week
Location: St Helens College
Reporting to: Deputy Chief Executive / Chief Finance Officer (CFO)
St Helens College is seeking an exceptional finance professional to join our Senior Leadership Team as Director of Finance. This is an excellent opportunity for a qualified accountant, or someone with equivalent experience, and proven leadership capability to play a key role in securing the long‑term financial sustainability and continued success of one of the region’s leading further education colleges.
About the Role
As Director of Finance, you will provide strategic leadership across all aspects of the College's financial management, including financial planning, reporting, compliance, procurement and resource management. You will lead the development and implementation of the College's Finance Strategy, ensure robust financial controls and support informed decision‑making across the organisation.
Key responsibilities include:
- Leading the Finance and Procurement Teams.
- Producing and presenting monthly management accounts and financial reports.
- Preparing annual budgets, forecasts and statutory accounts.
- Managing external audit processes.
- Ensuring compliance with financial, tax, VAT and procurement regulations.
- Supporting major strategic projects and financial reviews.
- Building effective relationships with budget holders and key external College stakeholders.
- Deputising for the Deputy Chief Executive/CFO when required.
What We're Looking For
We are looking for a confident and collaborative finance leader who combines strong technical expertise with excellent leadership and communication skills.
- A fully qualified accountant (CCAB or CIMA), or able to demonstrate substantial relevant experience within a further education environment.
- Experienced in financial planning, management accounting, statutory reporting and financial forecasting.
- A skilled leader with a track record of developing and motivating high‑performing teams.
- Commercially aware with the ability to influence decision‑making at senior level.
- Committed to continuous improvement, collaboration and excellence.
- A person of integrity who inspires confidence and builds strong professional relationships.
- Experience within Further Education or a similar publicly funded environment would be advantageous.
Why Join St Helens College?
At St Helens College, we are committed to transforming lives through learning. You will join a values‑driven organisation that places learners at the heart of everything we do while providing a supportive and inclusive environment for colleagues to thrive.
In return, we offer:
- The opportunity to influence the strategic direction of the College.
- Membership of an ambitious and supportive Senior Leadership Team.
- Excellent professional development opportunities.
- A generous annual leave entitlement.
- Access to the Local Government Pension Scheme.
- A comprehensive package of staff benefits and wellbeing support.
Safeguarding Statement
St Helens College is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults. All appointments are subject to satisfactory pre‑employment checks, including an enhanced DBS check.
Be part of shaping the future of St Helens College and the communities we serve. Apply now and help us deliver financial excellence that supports inspiring education.
Closing date: 10 August 2026
Shortlisting: 12 August 2026
Interview dates: 17 August 2026 & 25 August 2026
Director of Finance employer: Knowsleycollege
St Helens College and Knowsley Community College is an exceptional employer, offering a positive and enjoyable working environment for its staff. With generous holiday entitlement, a contributory pension scheme, and numerous opportunities for professional development, the college prioritises employee well-being and growth. Located in a supportive community, this role as a Teacher Development Coach in Maths allows you to make a meaningful impact on students' learning experiences while enjoying a range of benefits that enhance work-life balance.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Director of Finance
✨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.
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We think you need these skills to ace Director of Finance
Some tips for your application 🫡
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✨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 Knowsleycollege.
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