At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead finance and operations to enhance educational experiences at a prestigious girls' school.
- Company: Mayfield School, a top independent Catholic school for girls aged 11 to 18.
- Benefits: Join a supportive community with opportunities for personal and professional growth.
- Other info: Be part of a team that values joy, compassion, integrity, respect, and courage.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on the future of education in a beautiful countryside setting.
- Qualifications: Strong financial acumen and experience in leading complex operations.
The predicted salary is between 75000 - 100000 £ per year.
Mayfield School, a leading independent Catholic day and boarding school for girls aged 11 to 18, seeks to appoint an outstanding Senior Director of Finance and Operations (SDFO) to join its Senior Leadership Team. Set on a stunning 75-acre campus in the East Sussex countryside, Mayfield offers a distinctive education guided by its mission to educate “the mind, heart and soul”. Academic excellence sits alongside a strong commitment to personal development, spiritual growth and pastoral care, underpinned by Cornelian values of joy, compassion, integrity, respect and courage.
Recent inspection outcomes reflect the strength of the School’s educational offering. Mayfield received an Outstanding grading in all areas from the Catholic Schools Inspectorate in 2024 and, following its ISI inspection in 2026, met all standards, with its co-curricular and enrichment programme recognised as a Significant Strength – a distinction awarded to fewer than 10% of inspected schools nationally. Official Department for Education data also places Mayfield in the top 1% of schools nationally for A-level progress. With a thriving boarding offer, close-knit community and a clear sense of purpose, Mayfield is well placed to build on these strong foundations in the years ahead.
The SDFO is responsible for a broad portfolio spanning finance, support services, estates and facilities, commercial activity and strategic projects, leading a large and diverse team in support of an exceptional educational and boarding experience. Reporting to the Headmistress and working closely with the Senior Leadership Team and Governors, the postholder will contribute to strategy, financial stewardship, compliance and long-term planning, ensuring that services are effective, efficient and aligned with the School’s priorities.
The successful candidate will bring strong financial and commercial acumen, together with experience of leading high-quality operations in a complex environment. An effective communicator and relationship builder, they will share Mayfield’s values and play a key role in supporting the School’s continued success and future development.
Mayfield School is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, and applicants must be willing to undergo child protection screening appropriate to the post, including checks with past employers and the Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS).
Senior Director of Finance and Operations in Brighton employer: MAYFIELD SCHOOL LTD
Mayfield School is an exceptional employer, offering a unique opportunity to work in a prestigious independent Catholic school set in the beautiful East Sussex countryside. With a strong commitment to personal and professional development, employees benefit from a supportive community that values joy, compassion, and integrity, alongside competitive remuneration and opportunities for growth within a thriving educational environment. The school's outstanding reputation and focus on holistic education ensure that staff are part of a meaningful mission, contributing to the success and well-being of students.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Director of Finance and Operations in Brighton
✨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 MAYFIELD SCHOOL LTD. 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 Senior Director of Finance and Operations in Brighton
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 MAYFIELD SCHOOL LTD.
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 MAYFIELD SCHOOL LTD'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 MAYFIELD SCHOOL LTD
✨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 MAYFIELD SCHOOL LTD.
✨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 MAYFIELD SCHOOL LTD 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 MAYFIELD SCHOOL LTD 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.
