At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead financial strategy and operations for a local charity making a real difference.
- Company: St Nicholas Hospice, dedicated to providing high-quality palliative care and support.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, flexible working, generous leave, and life cover.
- Other info: Collaborative culture focused on innovation and continuous improvement.
- Why this job: Join a passionate team and impact the lives of those facing dying and grief.
- Qualifications: Qualified in ACA, ACCA, CIPFA, CIMA or equivalent with leadership experience.
The predicted salary is between 70000 - 70000 £ per year.
Hays Senior Finance is proud to be working in partnership with St Nicholas Hospice, who are looking to appoint a Head of Finance. This is a pivotal appointment where you will lead and deliver on financial aspects of their ambitious plans.
St Nicholas Hospice Care is a local charity, which strives for something better in the provision of high-quality, specialist palliative care, emotional and practical support, so that no-one in West Suffolk and Thetford has to face dying, death and grief alone. St Nic’s supports thousands of local people. Hospice support is there not just for patients, but for their families and friends too, offering everything from specialist medical and bereavement care to practical help. They aim to provide the very best experiences for those facing dying, death and grief, with actions and behaviours promoting the charity’s values of compassion, accountability, respect, and equity.
The charity and its trading subsidiary have a combined annual turnover of circa £9m. The Finance Department has responsibility for delivering all finance functions across the group. In addition, the Finance team plays a strong and increasingly strategic business‑partnering role across the organisation, working closely with directors, heads of departments and managers to provide financial insight, challenge, and support decision‑making, enabling effective operational planning, financial sustainability, and alignment with the charity’s strategic objectives.
The Head of Finance is responsible for the leadership and performance of the Finance team to provide sound financial information and specialist advice to directorate and committees to facilitate the Hospice’s strategic and operational business plans, ensure the effective management of financial resources and to support change and enable improvement.
The Role:
- Strategic Leadership: Drive the financial direction and long-term viability of the hospice and contribute to the financial health of the charity.
- Operational Excellence: Oversee the finance function, ensuring sustainable planning, budgeting, and financial management.
- Team Collaboration: Be a visible member of the Senior Leadership Team, enhancing our positive, values-based culture.
What They’re Looking For:
- Qualifications: ACA, ACCA, CIPFA, CIMA, or equivalent.
- Experience: Proven leadership in finance within a charity or similar organisation.
- Skills: Strong financial acumen, stakeholder communication, and team management.
You will also fulfil the role of Company Secretary for the charity and the trading company whilst operating as a senior leader within the Charity. St Nicholas Hospice has a collaborative and supportive team culture, so it is essential that you have the ability to “roll up your sleeves” and be involved in the day-to-day operations. In addition, a key element of the role will be leading and influencing others to continue to innovate and improve their financial processes.
Why Join the St Nicholas Hospice?
- Impactful Work: Play a central role in developing and delivering financial plans to support in an environment where everyone is encouraged, energised and enabled to play their part in delivering the Hospice's vision.
- Supportive Culture: Join a collaborative team that values innovation and continuous improvement in its service of local communities.
- Great Benefits: Competitive salary, attractive annual leave, life cover, and flexible working arrangements, including hybrid working.
Ready to Make a Difference? If you have the drive, passion, and enthusiasm to help them to achieve their mission and vision, we want to hear from you!
For more information about the role and organisation please contact Senan Pierce, Senior Business Director at Hays Senior Finance who is the retained consultant working in partnership with St Nicholas Hospice.
Closing date for all applications: 28th June, 2026. Interviews will take place: 7th and 8th July, 2026.
Head Of Finance in Bury St Edmunds employer: St Nicholas Hospice Care
St Nicholas Hospice Care is an exceptional employer, offering a supportive work culture that prioritises employee wellbeing and professional growth. Located in the heart of Bury St Edmunds, this role not only provides competitive benefits such as 25 days of annual leave and a pension scheme but also allows you to make a meaningful impact in the community by leading a dedicated team in the charity sector.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head Of Finance in Bury St Edmunds
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the finance sector, especially those who have experience in charities. A friendly chat can lead to insider info about the role and even a referral.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by researching St Nicholas Hospice thoroughly. Understand their mission and values, and think about how your skills can align with their goals. This will show them you’re genuinely interested!
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your leadership stories! Be ready to share examples of how you've led teams and improved financial processes in the past. This is key for a Head of Finance role, so make sure you’ve got some solid anecdotes up your sleeve.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take that extra step to engage with us directly.
We think you need these skills to ace Head Of Finance in Bury St Edmunds
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV reflects the skills and experience that match the Head of Finance role. Highlight your leadership in finance, especially within a charity or similar organisation, to show us you’re the right fit.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to express your passion for the role and the mission of St Nicholas Hospice. Tell us how your values align with theirs and why you want to be part of their team.
Showcase Your Financial Acumen:In your application, don’t forget to demonstrate your strong financial skills. Share examples of how you've driven financial direction and operational excellence in previous roles to give us confidence in your abilities.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to the right people and shows us you’re serious about joining the St Nicholas Hospice team!
How to prepare for a job interview at St Nicholas Hospice Care
✨Know the Charity Inside Out
Before your interview, take some time to research St Nicholas Hospice. Understand their mission, values, and the specific challenges they face in providing palliative care. This knowledge will not only help you answer questions more effectively but also demonstrate your genuine interest in the role.
✨Showcase Your Financial Leadership
Prepare examples from your past experience that highlight your leadership in finance, especially within a charity or similar organisation. Be ready to discuss how you've driven financial strategy, managed budgets, and supported decision-making processes. This will show that you have the skills needed to lead the Finance team.
✨Emphasise Team Collaboration
Since the role requires strong collaboration with various departments, think of instances where you've successfully worked with others to achieve financial goals. Highlight your ability to communicate effectively and foster a positive team culture, as this aligns with the charity's values.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect questions that assess your problem-solving skills and ability to innovate financial processes. Prepare for scenario-based questions where you might need to outline how you'd handle specific financial challenges or improve existing systems. This will showcase your strategic thinking and adaptability.
