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For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead financial operations, budgeting, and compliance while supporting strategic decisions.
- Company: Respected training provider dedicated to empowering learners and employers.
- Benefits: Remote work flexibility with occasional travel and competitive salary.
- Why this job: Join a dynamic team and make a real impact in the education sector.
- Qualifications: Fully qualified accountant with senior finance experience, preferably in education.
- Other info: Opportunity for leadership and professional growth in a supportive environment.
The predicted salary is between 43200 - 72000 £ per year.
THIS ROLE IS REMOTE WITH OCCASIONAL TRAVEL. THE SUCCESSFUL APPLICANT CAN BE BASED ANYWHERE IN ENGLAND.
If your skills, experience, and qualifications match those in this job overview, do not delay your application.
About Our Client
Our client is a well-established and respected training provider, known for delivering exceptional education and skills programmes across a range of sectors. Their work helps learners achieve their full potential and supports employers in building a skilled and capable workforce.
As part of their continued growth, they are now seeking a commercially astute and strategically minded Head of Finance to lead their financial operations and contribute to the wider success of the business.
The Role
This is a senior leadership position, responsible for overseeing the full finance function. The successful candidate will provide strategic financial direction, ensure full compliance with regulatory and funding requirements (particularly ESFA), and deliver accurate and insightful reporting to support key business decisions.
Key Responsibilities
* Lead all day-to-day financial operations including budgeting, forecasting, cash flow, payroll, and reporting
* Produce detailed monthly management accounts with analysis for the senior leadership team
* Ensure compliance with ESFA funding rules, audit standards, and all relevant financial regulations
* Develop and implement effective financial policies, procedures, and internal controls
* Prepare annual budgets and long-term forecasts aligned with organisational goals
* Manage year-end accounts and liaise with external auditors
* Support the development of bids, tenders, and funding applications with accurate modelling and risk analysis
* Provide strategic financial insight to the CEO and senior leadership team
* Lead, support and develop members of the finance team to maintain a high-performance culture.
What We\’re Looking For
* Fully qualified accountant (ACCA, CIMA, ACA or equivalent)
* Significant experience in a senior finance role, preferably within the education or training sector
* Deep understanding of ESFA funding rules, ILR processes, and apprenticeship funding models
* Excellent commercial awareness and strategic thinking
* Strong leadership, communication, and stakeholder management skills
* A high level of integrity, accuracy, and attention to detail
* Proficiency in financial systems and Excel (experience with learner management or funding platforms a plus)
Head Of Finance employer: National Skills Agency
Contact Detail:
National Skills Agency Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Head Of Finance
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the finance sector, especially those who have experience in education or training. A friendly chat can lead to insider info about job openings that aren't even advertised yet.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the company and its financial operations. Understand their funding models and be ready to discuss how your experience aligns with their needs. We want you to shine when it comes to showcasing your strategic thinking!
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t forget to follow up after interviews! A quick thank-you email can keep you top of mind and show your enthusiasm for the role. Plus, it’s a great chance to reiterate why you’re the perfect fit for their Head of Finance position.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website for a smoother process! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive about their job search!
We think you need these skills to ace Head Of Finance
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV reflects the skills and experience mentioned in the job description. Highlight your qualifications, especially if you're a fully qualified accountant, and any relevant experience in the education or training sector.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're the perfect fit for the Head of Finance role. Mention your strategic thinking and leadership skills, and how they align with our client's goals.
Showcase Your Compliance Knowledge: Since compliance with ESFA funding rules is crucial, make sure to mention your understanding of these regulations. Share examples of how you've ensured compliance in previous roles to demonstrate your expertise.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you don’t miss out on any important updates during the process!
How to prepare for a job interview at National Skills Agency
✨Know Your Numbers
As a Head of Finance, you'll need to demonstrate your financial acumen. Brush up on key financial metrics and be ready to discuss how you've used them in past roles. Prepare examples of how you've managed budgets, forecasts, and cash flow effectively.
✨Understand ESFA Regulations
Since the role involves compliance with ESFA funding rules, make sure you’re well-versed in these regulations. Familiarise yourself with the latest updates and be prepared to discuss how you've ensured compliance in previous positions.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
This position requires strong leadership abilities. Think of specific instances where you've led a team or improved performance. Be ready to share how you foster a high-performance culture and support team development.
✨Prepare Insightful Questions
Interviews are a two-way street! Prepare thoughtful questions about the company's financial strategies and future goals. This shows your interest in the role and helps you assess if the company aligns with your career aspirations.
