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 located in the heart of Bury St Edmunds, offering a supportive work culture that prioritises employee well-being and professional growth. As a Bank Chef, you will enjoy the opportunity to create meaningful meals that cater to diverse dietary needs while working alongside a dedicated team committed to making a difference in patients' lives. With a focus on collaboration and innovation, this role provides a unique chance to develop your culinary skills in a compassionate environment.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head Of Finance in Bury St Edmunds
✨Tap into Campus Networks
If you're still in uni, don’t forget to engage with your campus's career services and attend finance-related events. Banks often do presentations and recruitment drives on campus, so put yourself out there and make use of these opportunities to show off your passion for the field.
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We think you need these skills to ace Head Of Finance in Bury St Edmunds
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Numbers!:In the banking and financial services world, quantifiable achievements are key. Make sure your CV highlights your grades in relevant subjects, any financial certifications you hold, and specific projects where you've delivered measurable results. Employers love to see how your skills translate into real-world success.
Tailor Your Cover Letter to the Role:When applying for a full-time position, your cover letter should make a direct connection between your experience and the job description. Don't just state your enthusiasm for finance—dive into how your background in banking or financial analysis sets you apart. Let your passion shine through while being specific about what you can bring to St Nicholas Hospice Care.
Include Relevant Financial Software Experience:If you've worked with financial modelling tools or software like Excel, SAP, or specific analytical tools during your studies or internships, bring that up! Highlighting your proficiency can really make your application pop and show you're ready to hit the ground running in a full-time role.
Research and Reflect:Before hitting that 'apply' button on St Nicholas Hospice Care's website, do a little digging. Look up their recent projects, values, and culture. Reflecting their ethos in your application can make a huge difference and show you’re genuinely interested in being part of the team!
How to prepare for a job interview at St Nicholas Hospice Care
✨Brush Up on Financial Analysis Skills
Make sure you're well-versed in financial concepts and analytical techniques relevant to banking and financial services. Get comfortable with tools like Excel for modelling or financial forecasting, as technical questions in this area are common during interviews with St Nicholas Hospice Care.
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✨Show Your Passion for Finance
Since this is a full-time position, employers at St Nicholas Hospice Care will be keen to see your genuine interest in finance. Be prepared to discuss recent industry trends or news articles that excite you, showcasing your enthusiasm and engagement with the field.
✨Network with Industry Professionals
Before your interview, reach out to current or former St Nicholas Hospice Care employees on platforms like LinkedIn. They'll offer unique insights into the company's culture and the interview process, which can give us a delightful edge in showcasing a good fit for the team.
