At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead financial strategy and management across the Foundation to ensure compliance and value for money.
- Company: A dedicated educational foundation focused on improving outcomes for children and young people.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, professional development opportunities, and a supportive work environment.
- Other info: Join a values-driven organisation committed to equality and student welfare.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in education while leading a passionate finance team.
- Qualifications: Experience in finance leadership, strategic planning, and team development required.
The predicted salary is between 75000 - 100000 £ per year.
Location: To be based at William Henry Smith School but required to work across all Foundation Sites.
Job Summary: The Director of Finance will provide professional leadership and management of all financial aspects across the organisation. You will ensure strong financial stewardship, effective planning, compliance with statutory requirements, and the delivery of value for money in line with the Foundation’s vision, values, and strategic priorities. This role will act as the Foundation’s principal financial advisor, supporting the CEO, Board of Trustees, Governors and senior leaders with clear, evidence‑based advice to inform decision‑making and ensure resources are directed to achieving the best possible outcomes for children and young people.
Key Responsibilities:
- Lead the development and delivery of the Foundation’s financial strategy, ensuring it aligns with the Foundation’s mission, vision and values.
- Act as the principal financial advisor to the CEO, Board of Trustees, Governors, Trustees and senior leaders.
- Lead and oversee all aspects of financial management across the Foundation, ensuring compliance with Foundation policies, ESFA regulations, Companies House and Charity Commission requirements.
- Lead the annual budgeting process and ensure the timely and accurate production of financial reports, including monthly/termly management accounts and preparation of year‑end statutory accounts in compliance with all relevant regulations and accounting standards.
- Monitor financial performance across all services, providing professional challenge and support where required.
- Lead and manage the finance team, including recruitment, training, and ongoing professional development.
About You:
- Has experience in a progressive finance leadership role, including strategic financial planning, budget management and forecasting.
- Has experience of leading and developing finance teams with a proven track record of making and implementing essential change.
- Has strong understanding of financial regulations, accounting standards and governance requirements.
- Is values‑driven, committed to safeguarding, student welfare, equality and diversity.
- Is self‑motivated and proactive, with a willingness to undertake further training and continuous learning.
Director of Finance employer: School & College
At the William Henry Smith School, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer that values professional growth and a collaborative work culture. As the Director of Finance, you will not only lead financial strategy but also play a pivotal role in shaping the future of our Foundation, all while enjoying a supportive environment that prioritises employee development and a commitment to making a meaningful impact on the lives of children and young people.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Director of Finance
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the finance sector and let them know you're on the hunt for a Director of Finance role. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the Foundation's mission and values. Tailor your responses to show how your experience aligns with their goals. We want to see that you’re not just a numbers whiz, but also someone who genuinely cares about making a difference.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your financial storytelling! Be ready to discuss your past achievements in financial management and how they’ve led to positive outcomes. Use clear examples that demonstrate your strategic thinking and leadership skills.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take the initiative to engage directly with us.
We think you need these skills to ace Director of Finance
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV reflects the skills and experiences that match the Director of Finance role. Highlight your leadership in financial management and any relevant achievements that align with our Foundation’s mission and values.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you’re passionate about this role and how your experience makes you the perfect fit. Don’t forget to mention your commitment to safeguarding and student welfare!
Showcase Your Financial Acumen:In your application, be specific about your experience with strategic financial planning and budget management. We want to see how you've successfully led finance teams and navigated financial regulations in previous roles.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website for a smoother process. It helps us keep track of applications and ensures you don’t miss out on any important updates from us!
How to prepare for a job interview at School & College
✨Know Your Numbers
As a 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 data to drive decisions in previous roles. This shows you’re not just about the numbers, but also about strategic thinking.
✨Align with Their Vision
Familiarise yourself with the Foundation’s mission and values. Be prepared to explain how your financial strategies can support their goals. This will show that you’re not only a finance expert but also someone who genuinely cares about the organisation's impact on children and young people.
✨Showcase Leadership Skills
You’ll be leading a finance team, so highlight your experience in managing and developing teams. Share specific examples of how you’ve motivated your team or implemented changes that improved performance. This will demonstrate your capability as a leader.
✨Prepare for Compliance Questions
Given the importance of compliance in this role, be ready to discuss your understanding of financial regulations and governance requirements. Prepare examples of how you’ve ensured compliance in past positions, as this will reassure them of your ability to navigate complex regulatory environments.
