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- Tasks: Lead finance strategy to support children with Special Educational Needs.
- Company: Join a values-driven organisation making a real difference in education.
- Benefits: Generous leave, pension scheme, wellbeing support, and professional development.
- Other info: Be part of a compassionate community prioritising wellbeing and growth.
- Why this job: Shape the future of young lives through impactful financial leadership.
- Qualifications: Strong financial skills and a collaborative, empathetic leadership style.
The predicted salary is between 75000 - 100000 £ per year.
At Solent Academies Trust, we know that when strong relationships are nurtured, people thrive, and when people thrive, so do the children and young people we serve. We are a values‑driven organisation, proud to support pupils with Special Educational Needs in environments where connection, respect and belonging sit at the heart of every decision we make.
At an exciting and pivotal point in our journey, we are seeking an exceptional Director of Finance to join our senior leadership team.
More than a finance role
This is not a traditional Director of Finance post. Yes, you will bring strong financial acumen, strategic insight and professional rigour, but what matters most to us is how you lead. We are looking for a thoughtful, relational leader who builds trust with ease, communicates with clarity and warmth, and understands that behind every financial decision are real lives, families and communities.
Working closely with the Chief Finance and Operating Officer, you will play a central role in shaping the Trust’s future. You will lead and develop our finance function with integrity and credibility, guiding a sustainable financial strategy across our academies while navigating the complexities of high‑needs provision. Your work will directly support our ability to deliver outstanding care, education and inclusion for our pupils.
About you
We are particularly keen to hear from people who:
- Are motivated by purpose and driven to make a meaningful difference in young people’s lives
- Bring a collaborative, relational leadership style and build high‑trust, high‑performing teams
- Combine strategic financial expertise with the ability to see the bigger picture
- Lead with professional rigour, empathy and a sense of humour
- Are as comfortable working with people as they are with numbers
You may already be working in education, or you may be looking to bring your expertise from another sector. What matters most is your alignment with our values and your commitment to creating lasting impact.
Why join Solent Academies Trust?
Because here, your work genuinely matters. You will be part of a compassionate, ambitious community that values difference, prioritises wellbeing and invests in its people. This is a place where your voice is heard, your contribution is recognised and your professional growth is actively supported.
We offer:
- A strong organisational culture rooted in relational practice, belonging and wellbeing
- High‑quality professional development and leadership support
- Local Government Pension Scheme (including a 17.9% employer contribution and 50/50 option)
- Life assurance and confidential wellbeing support services
- A dedicated wellbeing inset day
- Generous annual leave, increasing with service
- A range of additional employee benefits and recognition schemes
This is a rare opportunity to step into a senior leadership role where your financial expertise will shape not only an organisation, but the futures of the children and young people we serve.
To find out more about the role, we encourage informal and confidential conversations with our recruitment partners, Propelo. Please click the apply link to arrange a discussion via our dedicated recruitment website.
In line with Keeping Children Safe in Education guidance, all applicants are required to complete the application form, which is also available on the same website.
Closing date: Wednesday 3rd June, noon
Interviews: Tuesday 23rd June
Solent Academies Trust has a commitment to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children. Successful applicants will be subject to relevant pre-employment checks, including references and enhanced DBS clearance.
Director of Finance in Cosham employer: Solent Academies Trust
Contact Detail:
Solent Academies Trust Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Director of Finance in Cosham
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the education sector or finance world. A friendly chat can lead to opportunities you might not find on job boards.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for those interviews! Research the Trust’s values and think about how your experience aligns with their mission. Show them you’re not just about numbers, but about making a real difference.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your storytelling skills. Be ready to share examples of how you've built trust and led teams effectively. They want to see the human side of your leadership!
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining the team.
We think you need these skills to ace Director of Finance in Cosham
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion: When you're writing your application, let your passion for making a difference shine through. We want to see how motivated you are by purpose and how you can contribute to the lives of young people.
Be Relational: Remember, this role is all about building trust and relationships. Use your application to highlight your collaborative leadership style and how you've successfully built high-performing teams in the past.
Connect the Dots: Make sure to connect your financial expertise with the bigger picture. We’re looking for someone who understands that behind every number is a real-life impact, so share examples of how you've navigated complex financial decisions with empathy.
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to apply through our dedicated recruitment website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us directly, and you can also find more details about the role and our values there.
How to prepare for a job interview at Solent Academies Trust
✨Understand the Values
Before your interview, take some time to really understand the values of Solent Academies Trust. They prioritise connection, respect, and belonging, so think about how your own values align with theirs. Be ready to share examples of how you've demonstrated these values in your previous roles.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Style
This role is all about relational leadership, so be prepared to discuss your approach to building trust and high-performing teams. Think of specific instances where you've led with empathy and clarity, and how that has positively impacted your team or organisation.
✨Connect Financial Decisions to Real Lives
Remember, behind every financial decision are real people and communities. Be ready to articulate how your financial strategies can support the mission of the Trust. Use examples from your past experiences where your financial acumen directly contributed to positive outcomes for individuals or groups.
✨Prepare Thoughtful Questions
Interviews are a two-way street, so come armed with insightful questions that show your genuine interest in the role and the organisation. Ask about their current challenges, future goals, or how they measure success in their finance function. This will demonstrate your strategic thinking and commitment to making a meaningful impact.