At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead financial planning and management for the College, ensuring sustainability and compliance.
- Company: Join West Herts College, a supportive and dynamic educational institution.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, generous holiday, gym access, and various discounts.
- Other info: Opportunities for training and career growth in a collaborative environment.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on financial strategy while developing your leadership skills.
- Qualifications: Must be a qualified accountant with senior finance experience and strong analytical skills.
The predicted salary is between 75000 - 75000 € per year.
Location: Watford Campus WD17 3EZ
Salary: Up to GBP 75,000 per annum
Contractual Hours: 37.00
Basis: Full time
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 include but are not limited to:
- 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 – Watford Campus WD17 3EZ employer: Recruit4Mum
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 – Watford Campus WD17 3EZ
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the finance sector, especially those who might know someone at West Herts College. A friendly chat can sometimes lead to opportunities that aren’t even advertised!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by researching the College’s financial strategies and recent developments. Show us you’re not just a numbers person but also someone who understands the bigger picture and can contribute to the College’s goals.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your leadership stories! We want to hear about times you’ve led teams or managed projects successfully. Be ready to share specific examples that highlight your skills in financial governance and stakeholder management.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows you’re genuinely interested in joining our team at West Herts College.
We think you need these skills to ace Deputy Director of Finance – Watford Campus WD17 3EZ
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the Deputy Director of Finance role. Highlight your relevant experience in financial planning, budgeting, and team management. 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. Share specific examples of your leadership and analytical skills that demonstrate your ability to support strategic decision-making.
Showcase Your Qualifications:Don’t forget to mention your qualifications! Being a fully qualified accountant is key for this role, so make sure we can easily spot your ACCA, CIMA, CIPFA, or ACA 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 keep track of everything. Plus, it shows you’re keen on joining our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Recruit4Mum
✨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. This shows you can provide the high-quality financial analysis they’re looking for.
✨Showcase Leadership Skills
Prepare examples that highlight your leadership experience. Think about times when you’ve successfully managed a team or influenced senior leaders. This will help you illustrate your ability to lead the finance function effectively.
✨Understand the College's Financial Landscape
Research West Herts College and its financial challenges. Be prepared to discuss how you would support their financial sustainability and compliance. This shows you’re not just interested in the role but also invested in the institution’s success.
✨Prepare Questions for Them
Interviews are a two-way street! Prepare insightful questions about the College’s financial strategies and future plans. This demonstrates your genuine interest in the role and helps you assess if it’s the right fit for you.