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- Tasks: Lead financial operations and strategy, ensuring effective delivery and management of finance functions.
- Company: Join the Scottish Prison Service, a key player in public sector finance.
- Benefits: Enjoy hybrid working, attractive pension, personal development, and discounts at popular retailers.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on financial strategy while developing your leadership skills.
- Qualifications: Accountancy qualification and senior management experience in finance required.
- Other info: Opportunities for career progression and a dynamic work environment.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
The post holder will be accountable to the Director of Finance for the effective delivery of the financial operations, finance policy and strategy. The role will require regularly deputising for the Director of Finance and it is expected that the post holder will also contribute to the development of a number of strategic organisational priorities.
The role will lead on all aspects of the day-to-day management of the SPS finance department; financial and management accounting, financial policy & systems and finance business partnering. This will include payment of creditors, treasury function, statutory reporting, capital accounting, operational finance, systems development and maintenance and all management information reporting.
The post holder will provide finance advice and support to the Director of Finance and the SPS Senior Leadership Team, contributing to delivery of the strategic objectives of the organisation. A key aspect of the role will be the involvement in a number of organisational wide transformational projects. There is also a specific leadership remit in developing the SPS finance function moving towards a new operating model.
Core responsibilities in the role will include:
- The delivery of Statutory Annual Accounts
- The annual financial planning and budgeting process
- The timely and accurate reporting of the organisation’s financial position
- Maintaining the finance department’s risk register
- Ensuring financial policy, procedures, controls and processes are adhered to across the organisation
In addition to these responsibilities, there will be a requirement to work with the Director of Finance in delivering a medium strategic financial strategy for the SPS. The role will have line management responsibility for a number of senior finance professional staff and to ensure there is a collaborative approach to the delivery of the priorities, objectives and planned outcomes of the finance function.
The role is suitable for hybrid working with an expectation that the role holder will work from SPS locations approx. 3 days a week. The primary base will be at SPS Headquarters, situated in the heart of Edinburgh Park, however, there may be a requirement for travel to other SPS sites across Scotland.
If you have the following, we would like to hear from you:
- Accountancy/ Professional qualification, for example membership of a CCAB professional body or equivalent. (Essential)
- Finance and Technical Experience: Expert knowledge of relevant financial regulations and excellent technical Accounting knowledge (Essential)
- Senior Corporate Management Experience: Experience of working with Executive and Project Boards, experience of operating in a complex environment at strategic level. (Essential)
- Leadership Experience: Previous experience of Leading & Motivating teams at a senior level within a finance function with the ability to lead projects at a senior level. (Essential)
- Public Sector Accounting: Knowledge and experience of public sector accounting requirements; specifically, in the production of statutory accounts and the Scottish Government budgeting process. (Desirable)
Some of the benefits you can enjoy in role are:
- This role lends itself to Hybrid working, in line with policy.
- While the main office location will be HQ there may be some travel to establishments to aid in the understanding of the operational issues.
- Attractive Pension (Civil Service)
- Commitment to your personal and professional development
- Free gym and car parking
- Discounts at high street stores, supermarkets and restaurants through our partners at Blue Light Card, Edenred and Civil Service Sports Council.
- Sick Pay
- Annual Leave - 37 days rising to 42 days
For information on the job, including full job description and person specification, and to apply for these vacancies please visit the Scottish Prison Service website. We are committed to your personal and professional development and offer a wide range of career progression opportunities.
Closing date: 6 April 2026.
Head of Finance in Hermiston employer: Scottish Prison Service
Contact Detail:
Scottish Prison Service Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Finance in Hermiston
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the finance sector and let them know you're on the lookout for opportunities. You never know who might have the inside scoop on a role that’s perfect for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the company and its financial operations. Understand their strategic priorities and think about how your experience aligns with their goals. This will help you stand out as a candidate who’s genuinely interested.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your pitch! Be ready to explain how your leadership experience and technical knowledge can contribute to the SPS finance function. A confident delivery can make all the difference in landing that job.
✨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 serious about joining the team at SPS.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Finance in Hermiston
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 accountancy qualifications and any relevant leadership experience to show us you're the right fit!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you’re passionate about finance and how your background aligns with our strategic objectives. Keep it engaging and personal!
Showcase Your Achievements: Don’t just list your responsibilities; tell us about your achievements! Use specific examples to demonstrate how you've led teams or managed projects successfully in previous roles.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website for a smoother application process. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and get to know you better!
How to prepare for a job interview at Scottish Prison Service
✨Know Your Numbers
Make sure you brush up on your financial knowledge, especially around public sector accounting and statutory reporting. Be prepared to discuss specific examples of how you've managed financial operations or contributed to strategic financial planning in your previous roles.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
As a Head of Finance, you'll need to demonstrate your ability to lead and motivate teams. Think of instances where you've successfully led projects or improved team performance, and be ready to share these stories during the interview.
✨Understand the Organisation's Goals
Familiarise yourself with the Scottish Prison Service's strategic objectives and how the finance function supports these goals. This will show that you're not just focused on numbers but also understand the bigger picture and can contribute to transformational projects.
✨Prepare Questions for Them
Interviews are a two-way street! Prepare insightful questions about the finance department's current challenges or future projects. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you assess if the organisation is the right fit for you.