At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead financial strategy and governance for a growing educational Trust.
- Company: Reach South Academy Trust, dedicated to improving life chances through education.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, remote work, and the chance to make a real impact.
- Other info: Join a diverse team committed to inclusion and social mobility.
- Why this job: Shape the future of education while driving financial sustainability and growth.
- Qualifications: Strategic financial leadership experience and strong governance skills.
The predicted salary is between 95000 - 105000 £ per year.
Reach South Academy Trust is seeking an exceptional Director of Finance / CFO to join our Executive Leadership Team at a pivotal point in our growth. This is a rare opportunity to help shape the future of a values‑led Trust serving over 8,000 pupils across 21 schools, driven by a clear moral purpose: improving life chances through high‑quality, inclusive education.
What we offer:
- A key executive role with real influence on Trust‑wide strategy and direction
- The opportunity to shape financial sustainability and growth at scale
- A collaborative, values‑driven culture with a strong commitment to inclusion and social mobility
- A growing organisation where you can make a tangible, system‑wide impact
What we’re looking for:
- A strategic, forward‑thinking financial leader able to operate at executive level
- Someone who can provide clear, confident insight to support Board‑level decision making
- A leader who will drive strong governance, assurance and value for money
- An individual who can build relationships, inspire teams, and lead through growth and complexity
About Us:
Reach South is a diverse and inclusive Trust spanning primary, secondary, special and alternative provision across the South West. We believe every child deserves the opportunity to thrive, and we work collaboratively to remove barriers, build capacity and deliver excellence at scale.
Apply by: 10 June 2026
Director of Finance in London employer: Reachsouth
Reach South Academy Trust is an exceptional employer that offers a unique opportunity for the Director of Finance to influence the strategic direction of a values-led organisation dedicated to improving educational outcomes for over 8,000 pupils. With a strong commitment to inclusion and social mobility, employees benefit from a collaborative work culture that fosters professional growth and allows for meaningful contributions to the community. The remote working flexibility in the Southwest enhances work-life balance, making it an attractive place for passionate leaders to thrive.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Director of Finance in London
✨Tap into Campus Networks
If you're still in uni, don’t forget to engage with your campus's career services and attend finance-related events. Banks often do presentations and recruitment drives on campus, so put yourself out there and make use of these opportunities to show off your passion for the field.
✨Get Certified
Consider pursuing relevant certifications like the CFA or ACCA while you’re job hunting. They not only beef up your CV but also connect you with professional bodies which can lead to networking opportunities and even job openings in banking and financial services.
✨Connect on Professional Platforms
Join finance-focused groups on platforms like LinkedIn and engage in discussions. This can really help you stand out from the crowd, allowing potential employers to see your knowledge and interest in industry trends. Plus, you might stumble upon job postings shared exclusively within the group.
✨Apply Directly and Be Proactive
Don’t shy away from reaching out directly to firms like Reachsouth. Use their websites and apply through them, but also consider following up with a polite email to express your enthusiasm. Being proactive can make a huge difference in getting noticed in the competitive financial services sector.
We think you need these skills to ace Director of Finance in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Numbers!:In the banking and financial services world, quantifiable achievements are key. Make sure your CV highlights your grades in relevant subjects, any financial certifications you hold, and specific projects where you've delivered measurable results. Employers love to see how your skills translate into real-world success.
Tailor Your Cover Letter to the Role:When applying for a full-time position, your cover letter should make a direct connection between your experience and the job description. Don't just state your enthusiasm for finance—dive into how your background in banking or financial analysis sets you apart. Let your passion shine through while being specific about what you can bring to Reachsouth.
Include Relevant Financial Software Experience:If you've worked with financial modelling tools or software like Excel, SAP, or specific analytical tools during your studies or internships, bring that up! Highlighting your proficiency can really make your application pop and show you're ready to hit the ground running in a full-time role.
Research and Reflect:Before hitting that 'apply' button on Reachsouth's website, do a little digging. Look up their recent projects, values, and culture. Reflecting their ethos in your application can make a huge difference and show you’re genuinely interested in being part of the team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Reachsouth
✨Brush Up on Financial Analysis Skills
Make sure you're well-versed in financial concepts and analytical techniques relevant to banking and financial services. Get comfortable with tools like Excel for modelling or financial forecasting, as technical questions in this area are common during interviews with Reachsouth.
✨Prepare for Case Studies
Expect to tackle case studies that demonstrate your problem-solving skills in real-world banking scenarios. Familiarise yourself with the types of problems you might face—think risk assessments or investment evaluations—and be ready to articulate your thought process clearly.
✨Show Your Passion for Finance
Since this is a full-time position, employers at Reachsouth will be keen to see your genuine interest in finance. Be prepared to discuss recent industry trends or news articles that excite you, showcasing your enthusiasm and engagement with the field.
✨Network with Industry Professionals
Before your interview, reach out to current or former Reachsouth employees on platforms like LinkedIn. They'll offer unique insights into the company's culture and the interview process, which can give us a delightful edge in showcasing a good fit for the team.
