At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead financial planning and management to support the College's sustainability and growth.
- Company: Join West Herts College, a supportive and dynamic educational institution.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, generous holiday, gym access, and professional development opportunities.
- Other info: Flexible work environment with opportunities for career advancement and skill enhancement.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on financial strategy while working with a passionate team.
- Qualifications: Fully qualified accountant with senior finance experience and strong leadership skills.
The predicted salary is between 75000 - 100000 £ per year.
We are seeking an experienced and qualified finance professional to join the College as a Deputy Director of Finance. Reporting to the Director of Finance, you will provide strategic leadership and operational management across the finance function, supporting the College’s financial sustainability, compliance, and long‑term planning. The successful candidate will lead on financial planning, management reporting, budgeting, forecasting, audit, funding compliance, and financial governance.
You will also act as a key business partner to senior leaders across the College, providing high‑quality financial analysis, challenge, and support to inform strategic decision‑making. You will be a fully qualified accountant (ACCA, CIMA, CIPFA or ACA) with significant senior finance experience in a complex organisation. Strong leadership, analytical, and stakeholder management skills are essential, along with experience in financial modelling, budgeting, and team management.
Responsibilities:- Managing the College’s finances in line with changes in the sector
- Supporting Senior Managers and the College Corporation
- Working to provide and enhance the outstanding service provided across College
- Developing the Finance team in line with the College’s strategic aims
This is a full‑time role, based at our Watford Campus. You will also be required to attend meetings and events held at any of our sites and/or community venues. The closing date for applications is Friday 12 June 2026. You’ll have the full support of a dynamic team and opportunities to bring your ideas to the role. Training and development are at the heart of everything we do so you’ll be actively encouraged to upskill. We have a free on‑site gym at our Watford campus and you can access a wide range of discounts and benefits including a cycle‑to‑work scheme, free on‑site parking, pension, generous holiday scheme, time off at Christmas and early finishes on a Friday. West Herts College is positive about disabled people. If you need help applying for this role please contact the Human Resources department.
Deputy Director of Finance in Watford employer: onlyFE
West Herts College is an exceptional employer that prioritises employee development and well-being, offering a supportive work culture where your ideas are valued. Located at the Watford Campus, you will benefit from a range of perks including a free on-site gym, generous holiday scheme, and opportunities for professional growth, all while contributing to the financial sustainability of a dynamic educational institution.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Deputy Director of Finance in Watford
✨Network Like a Pro
Get out there and connect with people in the finance sector! Attend industry events, join relevant online forums, and don’t be shy about reaching out to professionals on LinkedIn. We all know that sometimes it’s not just what you know, but who you know that can help you land that Deputy Director of Finance role.
✨Showcase Your Skills
When you get the chance to chat with potential employers, make sure to highlight your leadership and analytical skills. Share specific examples of how you've managed finances in complex organisations and how your financial modelling has made a difference. We want to see you shine!
✨Prepare for Interviews
Do your homework before any interview! Research the College’s financial strategies and think about how your experience aligns with their goals. We recommend preparing some thoughtful questions to ask them too – it shows you’re genuinely interested and engaged.
✨Apply Through Our Website
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take the initiative to engage directly with us. Let’s get you one step closer to that Deputy Director of Finance position!
We think you need these skills to ace Deputy Director of Finance in Watford
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the Deputy Director of Finance role. Highlight your experience in financial planning, budgeting, and team management, as these are key aspects of the job. We want to see how your skills align with what we’re looking for!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you’re the perfect fit for our College. Mention specific examples of your leadership and analytical skills, and how they’ve helped in previous roles. We love a good story!
Showcase Your Qualifications:Don’t forget to mention your qualifications! Being a fully qualified accountant (ACCA, CIMA, CIPFA or ACA) is essential for this role. Make sure we can easily spot your credentials in your application.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply through our website for a smooth application process. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you don’t miss out on any important updates. Let’s get your application in!
How to prepare for a job interview at onlyFE
✨Know Your Numbers
As a Deputy Director 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 audits to show your hands-on experience.
✨Showcase Leadership Skills
This role requires strong leadership abilities. Think about times when you've led a team or project successfully. Be prepared to share specific examples that highlight your ability to motivate others, manage conflicts, and drive results within a finance function.
✨Understand the College's Vision
Familiarise yourself with the College’s strategic aims and how the finance department supports these goals. During the interview, connect your experience and skills to their mission, showing that you’re not just a finance expert but also a partner in achieving their objectives.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect scenario-based questions that assess your problem-solving skills. Think through potential challenges the College might face in financial management and prepare to discuss how you would approach these situations, demonstrating your analytical and strategic thinking.
