At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead financial strategy and transformation at a top-performing college.
- Company: Join Newham College, a leading further education institution in East London.
- Benefits: Enjoy hybrid working, competitive salary, generous holidays, and a solid pension package.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on education and community while driving financial innovation.
- Qualifications: Fully qualified accountant with strong leadership experience in finance.
- Other info: Be part of a dynamic team focused on growth and development.
The predicted salary is between 43200 - 72000 ÂŁ per year.
Join Newham College and help us shape the future of education and community impact in East London. Newham College is one of London’s largest and top-performing further education (FE) institutions. With campuses in East Ham, Stratford, Plaistow, and the London City Institute of Technology, we serve over 11,000 students across diverse pathways—16–18, adult education, apprenticeships, T Levels, and higher education. We pride ourselves on our Ofsted rated “Good” with outstanding features, our innovative culture and our unwavering investment in staff and infrastructure.
As Executive Director of Finance, you form part of the Senior Leadership team reporting directly into the Executive Board, leading the development and oversight of the finance function. Following our recent merger, we need an aspiring leader to drive transformation from traditional management accounting to integrated business partnering and to lead, mentor and grow a skilled finance team fostering a high-performance, customer-focused ethos. With oversight and responsibility for developing robust financial planning, budgeting, forecasting, and analysis processes, you will work closely with the CFOO and be an integral member of the senior leadership team.
We are looking for a fully qualified accountant, with extensive post-qualified experience, who has demonstrable leadership in finance, ideally in education, though open to those in the wider public and not-for-profit sectors. We are particularly keen on those with sophisticated people leadership and team development skills.
We offer hybrid working, a competitive salary, generous holiday and pension and benefits package, details of which can be found on our dedicated recruitment microsite.
At Newham College, you’ll make a real difference to students, staff, and the surrounding communities. You’ll be part of an ambitious, innovative college that puts people first—where financial leadership drives transformation, opportunity, and growth.
Closing date: 23 February 2026
Executive Director of Finance employer: Newham College
Contact Detail:
Newham College Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Executive Director of Finance
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the education sector and let them know you're on the lookout for opportunities. You never know who might have the inside scoop on openings at places like Newham College.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for those interviews by researching the college's recent initiatives and challenges. Show us that you’re not just a finance whiz, but also someone who understands the unique landscape of further education in East London.
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t underestimate the power of a follow-up! After an interview, drop a quick thank-you email to express your appreciation and reiterate your enthusiasm for the role. It keeps you fresh in their minds!
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves. Plus, you’ll find all the details about the role and the amazing benefits we offer at Newham College.
We think you need these skills to ace Executive Director of Finance
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV reflects the skills and experiences that align with the Executive Director of Finance role. Highlight your leadership in finance and any relevant experience in education or the public sector to catch our eye!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to tell us why you're passionate about transforming finance in education and how your vision aligns with our mission at Newham College. Keep it engaging and personal.
Showcase Your Leadership Skills: We’re looking for someone who can lead and develop a team. In your application, share specific examples of how you've mentored others and fostered a high-performance culture. We want to see your people skills in action!
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to submit your application through our dedicated recruitment microsite! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to the right place and shows us you’re serious about joining our team.
How to prepare for a job interview at Newham College
✨Know Your Numbers
As the Executive Director of Finance, you'll need to demonstrate a solid grasp of financial principles. Brush up on key financial metrics and be ready to discuss how you've used them to drive decision-making in previous roles. This shows your expertise and readiness to lead.
✨Showcase Leadership Skills
Highlight your experience in leading finance teams and developing talent. Prepare examples of how you've mentored others and fostered a high-performance culture. This is crucial for the role, so make sure you convey your people leadership skills effectively.
✨Understand the Education Sector
Familiarise yourself with the challenges and opportunities in the education sector, especially in further education. Be prepared to discuss how your background aligns with Newham College's mission and how you can contribute to their goals.
✨Prepare Thoughtful Questions
Interviews are a two-way street! Prepare insightful questions about the college's vision, the finance team's current challenges, and how they measure success. This not only shows your interest but also helps you assess if this is the right fit for you.