At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead financial strategy and governance for one of the largest NHS organisations.
- Company: Join Mid and South Essex NHS Foundation Trust, a leader in healthcare.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, career development, and a chance to make a real impact.
- Other info: Be part of a dynamic team focused on innovation and excellence.
- Why this job: Shape the future of healthcare while ensuring financial sustainability and quality care.
- Qualifications: CCAB/CIMA qualified with extensive NHS executive experience.
The predicted salary is between 101995 - 124661 £ per year.
Mid and South Essex NHS Foundation Trust is seeking an outstanding and visionary Chief Finance Officer (CFO) to join the Trust Board and Executive Leadership Team. This pivotal Board-level role provides strategic leadership for financial stewardship, governance, performance and long-term sustainability across one of the largest NHS organisations in the country.
Reporting to the Chief Executive, the CFO will ensure decision-making is supported by high-quality financial intelligence, robust analysis and strong governance. The post holder will play a key role in delivering the Trust's strategic objectives, maximising the effective use of resources and ensuring financial sustainability while maintaining a strong focus on quality of care and patient outcomes.
As a statutory Executive Director, the CFO will work closely with Board colleagues, system partners and national organisations to influence financial strategy across the wider health and care system. The role has responsibility for Financial Services, Procurement and Contract Management, Charities and Voluntary Services, Strategic Projects and Commercial activities, ensuring these functions deliver efficient and responsive services that support outstanding patient care.
This is an exceptional opportunity for an experienced finance leader with the strategic vision, commercial acumen and system leadership skills to help shape the future of healthcare across Mid and South Essex.
Main duties of the job
- Provide strategic financial leadership and advice to the Trust Board and Executive Team.
- Lead the development and delivery of the Trust's long-term financial strategy, supporting organisational sustainability and growth.
- Ensure robust financial governance, stewardship, risk management and accountability across the organisation.
- Oversee the Trust's financial services, procurement, contract management, charities and commercial functions.
- Lead the development of capital, investment and financing strategies that support organisational priorities.
- Drive value for money, productivity and efficiency through effective resource management and delivery of cost improvement programmes.
- Ensure high-quality statutory reporting, financial accounts, annual reports and regulatory returns.
- Build strong relationships with NHS England, Integrated Care Boards, regulators and external partners.
- Lead and develop high-performing teams that promote continuous improvement, innovation and excellence.
- Support system-wide working and collaborative approaches to improve outcomes for patients and communities.
About us
Our ambition is to deliver excellent local and specialist services, to improve the health and well being of our patients, and provide a vibrant place for staff to develop, innovate and build careers. We aim to make the most of our skills and experiences so we can become the best we can be. As one organisation we will recruit the finest and retain more specialist staff due to more employment opportunities across our Trust.
Person Specification
- Qualifications
- CCAB/CIMA Qualified Accountant (including active registration)
- Evidence of continuing professional development and management education to Masters' Level and/or PhD level or equivalent experience
- Knowledge and Experience
- Extensive experience which includes working at executive level within the NHS
- Significant Director level experience of working in a large and complex NHS Trust
- Experience of providing financial leadership, mentorship, and professional development at a very senior level with demonstrable outcomes.
- Significant experience of leading a finance team to deliver high quality services in a dynamic, changing environment
- A proven ability to deliver consistently to best-practice standards
- Experience of working with other statutory and voluntary organisations and the development of joint projects
- Expertise and understanding the issues facing the NHS
- Experience of representing services at a senior level and with external stakeholders
- Personal and People Development
- Good written, communication and numeric planning skills
- A collaborative management style, which recognises and values personal contributions and agenda and encourages team working
- The skills to evaluate and learn from outcomes, with a clear commitment to innovation, learning and improvement.
- Effectiveness in conflict resolution and management.
- Credible Leader to all within the team - effective leadership influencing, negotiating and interpersonal skills
- Ability to make decisions that encourage innovative ways of working and drive organisational change
- Physical Requirements
- Stamina, energy and enthusiasm and the ability to work effectively under pressure
- The temperament and ability to act effectively in highly emotive situations
This post is subject to the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act (Exceptions Order) 1975 and as such it will be necessary for a submission for Disclosure to be made to the Disclosure and Barring Service (formerly known as CRB) to check for any previous criminal convictions.
Applications from job seekers who require current Skilled worker sponsorship to work in the UK are welcome and will be considered alongside all other applications.
Applicants must have current UK professional registration.
Chief Finance Officer in Reading employer: National health service
The London Ambulance Service NHS Trust is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment that prioritises patient safety and service improvement. With a strong commitment to employee development, including leadership training and apprenticeship programmes, staff are empowered to grow their skills while contributing to the health of London. The Trust's inclusive culture and focus on quality management ensure that employees feel valued and supported in their vital roles.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Chief Finance Officer in Reading
✨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 National health service. 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 Chief Finance Officer in Reading
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 National health service.
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 National health service'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 National health service
✨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 National health service.
✨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 National health service 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 National health service 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.
