At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead financial strategies, manage contracts, and ensure compliance for Thames Freeport's growth.
- Company: Join Thames Freeport, a transformative economic initiative in Central London.
- Benefits: Enjoy a hybrid working pattern, competitive salary, and opportunities for professional development.
- Other info: Be part of a collaborative culture driving innovation and investment.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on economic growth and sustainability while leading a dynamic finance team.
- Qualifications: Fully qualified accountant with experience in finance and contract management.
The predicted salary is between 70000 - 90000 £ per year.
Thames Freeport is a transformational economic initiative, driving investment, innovation, and trade across the region. As we continue to expand our impact, we are seeking a Head of Finance, Contracts and Compliance to play a pivotal leadership role in supporting our growth and long-term success.
Location: Central London (near Fenchurch Street Station)
Working Pattern: Hybrid
Contract: Permanent
The Role
Thames Freeport is seeking a dynamic and experienced finance leader to provide strategic leadership and operational oversight across financial management, contract governance, and compliance activities. In this pivotal role, you will ensure financial stability, robust governance, effective contract management, and value for money in procurement, supporting the Freeport’s ambitions for innovation, economic growth, and sustainability. You will also act as the lead liaison with the Accountable Body, ensuring strong relationships, effective communication, and compliance with all funding and reporting requirements.
Key Responsibilities
- Leadership
- Develop and implement financial strategies aligned with long-term Freeport objectives
- Oversee budget setting, monitoring, and reporting processes
- Establish contract management and compliance frameworks that drive sustainability, innovation, and value
- Lead financial planning, forecasting, and reporting activities
- Provide insight to support data-driven decision-making at leadership level
- Ensure compliance with financial regulations, policies, and best practices
- Oversee accountable body processes and requirements
- Manage the Grant Funding Agreement, ensuring timely and effective funding flow
- Contract Management & Performance
- Lead contract management across the organisation
- Support executives and directors in supplier negotiations to maximise value and reduce risk
- Implement contract strategies aligned to economic and sustainability goals, including PCR compliance
- Advise and support teams to ensure effective third-party performance and delivery
- Stakeholder Engagement
- Build and maintain strong relationships with key partners and funders
- Work closely with site operators, businesses, and external stakeholders
- Act as the primary liaison with the Accountable Body, ensuring effective information flow and collaboration
- Governance & Compliance
- Monitor financial and contractual risks, ensuring appropriate controls are in place
- Deliver transparent reporting to Senior Leadership and the Governing Board
- Drive continuous improvement across finance, contract, and compliance processes
- Ensure full compliance with Accountable Body requirements, including grant and contract obligations
- Team Development
- Lead and develop the Finance and Procurement function
- Foster a high-performance, collaborative team culture
- Mentor and support team development
What You Will Bring
- Fully qualified accountant (ACA, ACCA, CIMA or equivalent)
- Proven experience in finance, contract management, and compliance within complex environments
- Strong expertise in financial planning, analysis, and reporting
- In-depth knowledge of contract management best practices and value-driven procurement
- Demonstrated leadership capability with the ability to drive change and performance
- Excellent stakeholder engagement and communication skills
- Track record of managing large budgets and delivering cost-effective outcomes
NOTE: Applicants must have the right to work in the UK.
As key partners within Thames Freeport, DP World are pleased to advertise this role on their behalf. We reserve the right to close this vacancy early should we receive a high volume of applications.
Head of Finance, Contracts and Compliance employer: Thames Freeport
Thames Freeport is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment in the heart of Central London, where innovation and sustainability are at the forefront of our mission. We prioritise employee growth through mentorship and development opportunities, fostering a collaborative culture that values strategic leadership and effective stakeholder engagement. Join us to be part of a transformative initiative that not only drives economic growth but also champions a sustainable future.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Finance, Contracts and Compliance
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the finance and compliance sectors. Attend industry events or webinars to meet potential employers and get your name out there. Remember, it’s all about who you know!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching Thames Freeport and understanding their goals. Tailor your responses to show how your experience aligns with their mission. We want to see that you’re not just a fit for the role, but also passionate about their vision.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice makes perfect! Conduct mock interviews with friends or mentors to refine your answers. Focus on articulating your leadership experience and how you’ve driven change in previous roles. Confidence is key!
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take the initiative to engage directly with us.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Finance, Contracts and Compliance
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the Head of Finance, Contracts and Compliance role. Highlight your experience in financial management and compliance, and don’t forget to showcase your leadership skills. We want to see how you can drive change and performance!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're the perfect fit for Thames Freeport. Mention specific examples from your past that demonstrate your expertise in contract management and stakeholder engagement. We love a good story!
Showcase Your Achievements:When filling out your application, be sure to include quantifiable achievements. Did you manage a large budget or implement a successful financial strategy? Numbers speak volumes, so let us know how you’ve made an impact in previous roles.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother process. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you don’t miss any important updates. Plus, we love seeing applications come directly from our site!
How to prepare for a job interview at Thames Freeport
✨Know Your Numbers
As a Head of Finance, you'll need to demonstrate your financial acumen. Brush up on key financial metrics and be ready to discuss how you've used data to drive decision-making in previous roles. This shows you can align with Thames Freeport's objectives.
✨Master Contract Management
Familiarise yourself with best practices in contract management and compliance. Be prepared to share specific examples of how you've successfully managed contracts in the past, particularly in complex environments. This will highlight your expertise and readiness for the role.
✨Engage Stakeholders Effectively
Strong stakeholder engagement is crucial for this position. Think about how you've built relationships in previous roles and be ready to discuss your approach to communication and collaboration. This will show that you can maintain strong partnerships at Thames Freeport.
✨Showcase Leadership Skills
This role requires dynamic leadership. Prepare to discuss your experience in leading teams, driving change, and fostering a high-performance culture. Share specific instances where you've mentored team members or improved team dynamics to illustrate your capability.
