Head of Finance in Leeds

Head of Finance in Leeds

Leeds Full-Time 42000 - 60000 £ / year (est.) No home office possible
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At a Glance

  • Tasks: Lead financial transactions and reporting for a vibrant arts charity.
  • Company: Join Opera North, a dynamic organisation dedicated to music and opera for all.
  • Benefits: Competitive salary of around £50,000 and supportive work environment.
  • Why this job: Make a real impact in the arts while managing finances in a creative setting.
  • Qualifications: Professional accounting qualification and experience in finance management.
  • Other info: We value diversity and welcome applicants from all backgrounds.

The predicted salary is between 42000 - 60000 £ per year.

Committed to producing high quality work that informs, excites and entertains, Opera North is looking for an experienced and well‑motivated individual to fill the role of Head of Finance. Reporting to the Director of Finance & Operations and supervising a small team of finance officers, you will lead on the day‑to‑day financial transactions, financial reporting and controls. Ensuring the timely, efficient, compliant and effective administration and control of the charity's group accounting.

The successful candidate will have a suitable professional accounting qualification (eg ACA, ACCA, CIMA), significant experience of most aspects of the role, including line management and preparing both management and statutory accounts. Experience and understanding of charity accounting rules is desirable but not essential.

Salary: c£50,000

Deadline for applications: 12 January 2026

Interviews to be held in: Howard Opera Centre Leeds, 8 Harrison Street, Leeds, LS1 6PA on Monday 26 January 2026

For an application pack, please visit https://www.operanorth.co.uk/about-us/jobs/

To apply for this role, please send a CV and application letter via the Hireful website. If you need any help completing your application, including any adjustments to the application process, please contact appointments@operanorth.co.uk to make us aware.

Candidates must have the right to work in the UK or be ready to obtain it. We create music and opera for everyone, and we welcome applications from people of all backgrounds and sections of the community. As we work to address underrepresentation in our workforce, we are particularly keen to hear from applicants of the global majority and/or those who are disabled. We are committed to meeting any access requirements for the successful applicant.

Registered Charity No. 511726

Head of Finance in Leeds employer: Opera North

Opera North is an exceptional employer that fosters a vibrant and inclusive work culture, dedicated to producing high-quality artistic experiences. Located in the heart of Leeds, we offer competitive salaries, opportunities for professional growth, and a commitment to diversity and accessibility, ensuring that every employee feels valued and empowered to contribute to our mission of making music and opera accessible to all. Join us in a role where your financial expertise will directly support our charitable goals and creative endeavours.
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Contact Detail:

Opera North Recruiting Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫

We think this is how you could land Head of Finance in Leeds

✨Tip Number 1

Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the finance sector, especially those who have experience in charity accounting. A friendly chat can lead to insider info about job openings or even a referral.

✨Tip Number 2

Prepare for the interview by researching Opera North and its financial operations. Knowing their mission and how you can contribute will show you're genuinely interested and ready to hit the ground running.

✨Tip Number 3

Practice common interview questions related to finance and management. We recommend doing mock interviews with friends or mentors to boost your confidence and refine your answers.

✨Tip Number 4

Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, if you need any help, just reach out to us at appointments@operanorth.co.uk.

We think you need these skills to ace Head of Finance in Leeds

Professional Accounting Qualification (ACA, ACCA, CIMA)
Financial Reporting
Financial Controls
Group Accounting
Line Management
Management Accounts Preparation
Statutory Accounts Preparation
Charity Accounting Rules Understanding
Team Leadership
Compliance Management
Attention to Detail
Effective Communication
Time Management
Problem-Solving Skills

Some tips for your application 🫡

Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV reflects the skills and experiences that match the Head of Finance role. Highlight your professional accounting qualifications and any relevant experience in charity accounting, even if it's not essential.

Craft a Compelling Application Letter: Your application letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're passionate about this role and how your background makes you the perfect fit for leading the finance team at Opera North.

Showcase Your Leadership Skills: Since you'll be supervising a small team, don’t forget to mention your line management experience. Share examples of how you've successfully led teams and managed financial transactions in previous roles.

Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply via the Hireful website as it streamlines the process for us. Plus, it ensures your application gets to the right place without any hiccups!

How to prepare for a job interview at Opera North

✨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. This shows you’re not just familiar with numbers but can also interpret and leverage them for strategic decisions.

✨Understand Charity Accounting

While experience in charity accounting isn’t essential, having a basic understanding can set you apart. Research the specific accounting rules that apply to charities and be prepared to discuss how they might impact financial reporting and controls in your role.

✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills

You’ll be supervising a small team, so highlight your line management experience. Prepare examples of how you’ve successfully led teams, resolved conflicts, or improved processes. This will demonstrate your capability to manage and inspire others effectively.

✨Prepare Questions

Interviews are a two-way street! Prepare thoughtful questions about the organisation’s financial strategies, challenges, and goals. This not only shows your interest but also helps you assess if the role aligns with your career aspirations.

Head of Finance in Leeds
Opera North
Location: Leeds
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  • Head of Finance in Leeds

    Leeds
    Full-Time
    42000 - 60000 £ / year (est.)
  • O

    Opera North

    100-250
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