Head of Financial Control in Chichester

A welcoming, student-focused Higher Education institution in West Sussex is looking to recruit a Head of Financial Control candidate on a permanent basis.

The post holder will have responsibility for Financial Accounts, Payroll / Pensions and Finance Systems, in the provision of financial services, information and guidance throughout the organisation. The role covers business critical areas of statutory compliance, treasury management, cashflow, covenant reporting, financial accounting, financial controls, tax, financial due diligence checks, payroll and pensions.

The post holder is responsible for the administration of the finance software system including coding structure, reporting, development, testing and documentation. They will need to build strong relationships with key stakeholders (internally and externally), providing in-depth analysis and accurate forecasting and reporting, communicating financial information clearly and in a timely manner. The post holder is expected to deputise for the CFO as required, including representation at meetings and formal committees.

Responsibilities include:

• Preparation and completion of the annual statutory accounts and financial statements, coordinating the timetable and activities to deliver accurate and timely information.
• Working with auditors to ensure current legislation and accounting standards are adhered to, resolving issues in a timely and effective manner, and ensuring a clean and efficient external audit.
• Leading and coordinating regulatory and statistical returns, including, but not limited to, the Office for Students ONS, NCTL and grant claim forms, ensuring returns are completed accurately and within required deadlines.
• Participating in the organisation's strategic initiatives providing financial due diligence accompanied by financial advice, tax advice and identifying and reporting any risks.
• Managing the organisation's treasury management, cashflow, and balance sheet reporting and forecasting, ensuring the organisation operates within its policies and meets its financial obligations.
• Overseeing day-to-day operational banking arrangements, online bank facilities, bank loan and RCF facilities and covenant compliance, ensuring all bank compliance documentation is reviewed and submitted in accordance with agreement deadlines.
• Handling all taxation matters, predominantly VAT, and Corporation Tax, ensuring matters relating to statutory bodies are dealt with effectively and in accordance with statutory requirements.
• Leading negotiations and discussions with HMRC and advisors on VAT and tax related matters.
• Developing, maintaining and implementing effective financial controls and policies adhering to legislation and regulatory requirements and proactively exploring the use of AI and digital technology to support decision making, continuous improvement and process development.
• Managing and developing the organisation's financial and payroll software and systems in relation to statutory and financial accounts, statutory and regulatory returns and financial controls.
• Reviewing and authorising payment releases.
• Coordinating and delivering information for internal audits pertaining to their area, resolving issues in a timely and effective manner and implementing recommendations as required.
• Leading, managing and developing staff (team of 5) reporting into this role, including recruitment, training and performance management.

A successful Head of Financial Control should have:

• Professional Accounting qualification (ACCA, CIMA) and a minimum of 3 years' experience in a similar role.
• Significant, relevant vocational experience, demonstrating clear professional development through a series of progressively more demanding roles, and the acquisition of appropriate professional or specialist knowledge.
• Proven knowledge of current Financial Accounting standards.
• Proven knowledge of financial processes and procedures.
• Experience and knowledge of the Higher Education financial environment.
• Experience of working with Unit 4 ERP (Agresso).
• Understanding of relevant Pension Schemes.
• Ability to apply financial reporting standards knowledge.
• Ability to inspire, motivate, and lead financial staff.

Job Offer:

• Competitive salary ranging from £58,000 to £67,000.
• 28 days holiday.
• Hybrid working.
• Very generous DB pension scheme.
• Free lunches.
• Free parking.
• Career progression.