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- Tasks: Lead financial strategy and management for a unique arts and conservation institution.
- Company: Join West Dean, a vibrant charitable organisation dedicated to arts, culture, and education.
- Benefits: Enjoy a dynamic work environment with opportunities for growth and innovation.
- Why this job: Be part of a transformative journey in a historic setting, impacting arts and education.
- Qualifications: Must be a qualified accountant with strong leadership and financial strategy experience.
- Other info: Applications close on 30th March 2025; exciting interviews start in April!
The predicted salary is between 43200 - 72000 £ per year.
Set in the heart of the South Downs National Park, West Dean is a complex charitable organisation that is part of the Edward James Foundation. It encompasses West Dean College of Arts, Design, Craft and Conservation, as well as an extensive estate featuring a historic house and buildings, eleven functioning farms, over 100 cottages, a village with a shop, event venues, and visitor attractions. This diverse array of elements combines to create a unique and multifaceted institution dedicated to arts, conservation, and cultural heritage.
The College provides an unparalleled education experience in a wide range of practice-based arts and crafts including conservation, fine arts, creative writing and design amongst many others. The College offers a wide range of programmes encompassing degrees, diplomas and a substantial portfolio of short courses that combine heritage with innovation and sustainability.
With a new Chief Executive and an ambitious vision of the future, West Dean stands at an exciting crossroads as the College embarks on a journey of growth and innovation both in Sussex and London. The Foundation comprises a community of over 300 staff and volunteers with an annual turnover of c£14 million. Subject to many of the same financial pressures faced by the education sector in recent years, the College is supported by assets in excess of £140 million and significant property and financial investments, and is well-placed to achieve its corporate ambitions backed by robust financial planning and operational efficiency.
The new Director of Finance will be a key member of the executive leadership team, charged with shaping the College’s financial future and supported by a dedicated team of professional staff. They will have a number of priorities that include:
- Improved budgetary management and reporting
- Commercialisation of activities
- Business case development
- Timely advice to academic and senior management
The successful candidate will be a dynamic leader with strong financial acumen and strategic vision. A professionally qualified accountant with extensive successful management of equivalent services, you will also have proven experience of developing and delivering successful financial strategies and transformation. You will need to be able to balance traditional financial stewardship with innovative approaches to support the unique and complex environment of the Foundation and have an appreciation of the context and challenges faced by the education and charitable sectors.
As a technical finance expert, you will also possess excellent interpersonal skills, be an inspirational leader and committed to the development of an inclusive and diverse environment.
The closing date for applications is Sunday 30th March 2025, with preliminary interviews from Monday 7th April 2025 and final interviews at West Dean the week commencing 28th April 2025.
Director of Finance employer: Novatech Ltd
Contact Detail:
Novatech Ltd Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Director of Finance
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the unique financial landscape of charitable organisations, especially in the education sector. Understanding the specific challenges and opportunities faced by institutions like West Dean will help you demonstrate your strategic vision during discussions.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in the arts and education sectors to gain insights into current trends and best practices. This can provide you with valuable context that you can reference in conversations with the hiring team, showcasing your proactive approach.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss innovative financial strategies that align with the mission of West Dean. Think about how you can balance traditional financial stewardship with creative solutions that support their diverse activities and growth ambitions.
✨Tip Number 4
Highlight your leadership style and commitment to inclusivity during interviews. Be ready to share examples of how you've fostered diverse teams and environments in previous roles, as this aligns with the values of West Dean and will resonate with the executive leadership team.
We think you need these skills to ace Director of Finance
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Before applying, make sure to thoroughly read the job description for the Director of Finance position. Understand the key responsibilities and required qualifications to tailor your application accordingly.
Highlight Relevant Experience: In your CV and cover letter, emphasise your experience in financial management, strategic planning, and any previous roles that demonstrate your ability to lead a team effectively. Use specific examples to showcase your achievements.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that not only outlines your qualifications but also reflects your passion for the arts, conservation, and education sectors. Explain how your vision aligns with West Dean's mission and future goals.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting, carefully proofread your CV and cover letter for any spelling or grammatical errors. A polished application reflects your attention to detail and professionalism, which are crucial for a leadership role.
How to prepare for a job interview at Novatech Ltd
✨Understand the Organisation's Mission
Before your interview, take some time to research West Dean and its mission. Familiarise yourself with their commitment to arts, conservation, and cultural heritage. This will help you align your answers with their values and demonstrate your genuine interest in the role.
✨Showcase Your Financial Acumen
As a Director of Finance, you'll need to exhibit strong financial skills. Prepare examples of how you've successfully managed budgets, developed financial strategies, or improved reporting processes in previous roles. Be ready to discuss how these experiences can benefit West Dean.
✨Highlight Leadership Experience
This role requires dynamic leadership. Think of instances where you've led teams or projects, particularly in challenging environments. Emphasise your ability to inspire and develop others, as well as your commitment to fostering an inclusive workplace.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect questions that assess your problem-solving abilities in real-world scenarios. Consider potential challenges West Dean might face in the education and charitable sectors, and be prepared to discuss how you would approach these issues strategically.
