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- Tasks: Lead financial strategy and support impactful education for young people.
- Company: Join a compassionate community dedicated to making a difference in education.
- Benefits: Generous leave, pension scheme, wellbeing support, and professional development opportunities.
- Other info: Be part of a values-driven organisation prioritising connection and belonging.
- Why this job: Shape futures while leading with empathy and strategic insight.
- Qualifications: Strong financial acumen and relational leadership skills.
The predicted salary is between 75000 - 100000 £ per year.
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.
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.
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. 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.
Reporting to 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.
Benefits
- 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.
Locations
Director of Finance in Hampshire, Portsmouth 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 Hampshire, Portsmouth
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the education sector or those who work at Solent Academies Trust. A friendly chat can open doors and give you insights that a job description just can't.
✨Tip Number 2
Show your personality! When you get the chance to meet with the team, let your sense of humour and empathy shine through. Remember, they’re looking for someone who can connect with people as much as they can crunch numbers.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your vision! Think about how your financial expertise can align with their mission to support young people. Be ready to share ideas on how you can contribute to their goals and values.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you’re genuinely interested in being part of our community.
We think you need these skills to ace Director of Finance in Hampshire, Portsmouth
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion: Let us see your motivation for making a difference in young people's lives. Share personal stories or experiences that highlight your commitment to education and how you align with our values.
Be Relational: We value a collaborative leadership style, so make sure to emphasise your ability to build trust and high-performing teams. Use examples that showcase your interpersonal skills and how you connect with others.
Highlight Your Financial Savvy: While we love a good story, don’t forget to demonstrate your strategic financial expertise. Talk about your experience with financial planning and how you've navigated complex financial landscapes in the past.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity to shape our future.
How to prepare for a job interview at Solent Academies Trust
✨Know Your Numbers and the Bigger Picture
As a Director of Finance, you need to demonstrate not just your financial expertise but also your understanding of how those numbers impact real lives. Prepare to discuss specific examples where your financial decisions have led to positive outcomes for communities or organisations.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Style
This role requires a relational leadership style, so be ready to share stories that highlight your ability to build trust and high-performing teams. Think about times when you've successfully collaborated with others and how you’ve fostered an environment of respect and belonging.
✨Align with Their Values
Research Solent Academies Trust’s values and be prepared to articulate how your personal values align with theirs. Share your passion for making a meaningful difference in young people's lives and how you can contribute to their mission.
✨Bring Empathy and Humour
In your interview, let your personality shine through! This organisation values empathy and a sense of humour, so don’t shy away from showing your human side. Share anecdotes that reflect your ability to connect with people while maintaining professionalism.