At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead financial strategy and management across the Foundation, ensuring compliance and value for money.
- Company: Join a mission-driven organisation dedicated to improving outcomes for children and young people.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, professional development, and a collaborative work environment.
- Other info: Opportunity for career growth and to contribute to a values-driven culture.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on financial stewardship and strategic decision-making in education.
- Qualifications: Experience in finance leadership, strategic planning, and team development required.
The predicted salary is between 63837 - 67435 £ per year.
Location: To be based at William Henry Smith School but requirement to work across all Foundation Sites
Contract: Full time, Permanent, All year round, 37 hours per week
Salary: £63,837.00 - £67,435.00 per annum
Responsible to: Chief Executive Officer / Executive Principals
Responsible for: Finance Team
Key Relationships: Chief Executive Officer; Principals; Registered Manager (Children’s Home); Head of Care; Designated Safeguarding Leads; SLT and Operational Managers; Board of Trustees / Governors; External Regulators, and local authorities
Closing Date: 10th June 2026, Midnight
Interview Date: 24th June 2026
Start Date: TBC
Purpose of the Job
The Director of Finance will provide professional leadership and management of all financial aspects across the organisation. You will ensure strong financial stewardship, effective planning, compliance with statutory requirements, and the delivery of value for money in line with the Foundation’s vision, values, and strategic priorities. This role will act as the Foundation’s principal financial advisor, supporting the CEO, Board of Trustees, Governors and senior leaders with clear, evidence-based advice to inform decision-making and ensure resources are directed to achieving the best possible outcomes for children and young people. To be an active presence, contributing to strategic direction, supporting effective decision-making, and promoting a culture of collaboration and accountability across the organisation.
Key responsibilities
- Lead the development and delivery of the Foundation’s financial strategy, ensuring it aligns with the Foundation’s mission, vision and values.
- Act as the principal financial advisor to the CEO, Board of Trustees, Governors, Trustees and senior leaders.
- Lead and oversee all aspects of financial management across the Foundation, ensuring compliance with Foundation policies, ESFA regulations, Companies House and Charity Commission requirements.
- Lead the annual budgeting process and ensure the timely and accurate production of financial reports, including monthly/termly management accounts and preparation of year‑end statutory accounts in compliance with all relevant regulations and accounting standards.
- Monitor financial performance across all services, providing professional challenge and support where required.
- Lead and manage the finance team, including recruitment, training, and ongoing professional development.
About you
- Has experience in a progressive finance leadership role, including strategic financial planning, budget management and forecasting.
- Has experience of leading and developing finance teams with a proven track record of making and implementing essential change.
- Has strong understanding of financial regulations, accounting standards and governance requirements.
- Is values-driven, committed to safeguarding, student welfare, equality and diversity.
- Is self-motivated and proactive, with a willingness to undertake further training and continuous learning.
Rehabilitation of Offenders Act (ROA) 1974 (Exceptions) Order 1975 (as amended 2013) Posts which involve substantial access to children are exempt from provisions contained within this Act under which the job applicants are entitled to withhold information about any previous criminal background which is either unspent or would otherwise be considered ‘spent’ under the terms of the Act. However, changes to the legislation in 2013 mean that spent convictions may be protected and do not have to be disclosed to prospective employers. Employers cannot take protected offences into account when making employment decisions. If the job for which you have applied involves substantial access to children and you have been shortlisted for the post, you will be provided with a form on which you will be asked to disclose any relevant previous criminal background. We will provide more information on protected offences at that stage. If you are the successful applicant you will be required to have an Enhanced Disclosure & Barring Service disclosure & we will also check the DBS barred list (children). Failure to complete this form will result in your application not proceeding any further. The possession of a criminal record will not automatically debar you from consideration for the post for which you have applied. Any information given will be treated as confidential and will only be used in relation to the post for which you have applied.
Director of Finance employer: The William Henry Smith School and Sixth Form
At the William Henry Smith School, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer that values collaboration, accountability, and professional growth. Our supportive work culture fosters continuous learning and development, ensuring that our employees are equipped to make a meaningful impact on the lives of children and young people. With competitive salaries and a commitment to safeguarding and diversity, we offer a rewarding environment for those looking to lead in finance while contributing to our mission-driven organisation.
Contact Details:
The William Henry Smith School and Sixth Form Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Director of Finance
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the finance sector, especially those who might know about opportunities at schools or foundations. A friendly chat can sometimes lead to a job offer before it even gets advertised!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the organisation's financial strategies and recent developments. Show us that you’re not just another candidate; demonstrate how your experience aligns with their mission and values.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your pitch! Be ready to explain how your leadership style and financial expertise can drive the Foundation’s goals. We want to hear how you can make a real impact on the financial health of the organisation.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining our team and contributing to our vision.
We think you need these skills to ace Director of Finance
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter to highlight your experience in finance leadership and strategic planning. We want to see how your skills align with our mission and values, so don’t hold back!
Showcase Your Achievements:When detailing your past roles, focus on specific achievements that demonstrate your ability to lead finance teams and manage budgets effectively. Use numbers and examples to make your case stronger – we love a good success story!
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your application clear and to the point. We appreciate well-structured documents that are easy to read. Avoid jargon unless it’s relevant, and make sure your passion for the role shines through!
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way to ensure it gets to us directly. Plus, you’ll find all the details you need about the role and our organisation there.
How to prepare for a job interview at The William Henry Smith School and Sixth Form
✨Know Your Numbers
As a Director 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 them in past roles. Think about specific examples where your financial strategies led to improved outcomes.
✨Align with the Foundation's Values
Make sure you understand the Foundation’s mission and values. During the interview, relate your experience and leadership style to these principles. Show how your approach to finance can support their vision for children and young people.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect scenario-based questions that assess your problem-solving skills. Prepare examples of challenges you’ve faced in financial management and how you overcame them. This will showcase your strategic thinking and ability to lead a finance team effectively.
✨Engage with Key Stakeholders
Since this role involves working closely with the CEO, Board of Trustees, and other leaders, think about how you would build relationships with them. Be ready to discuss how you would communicate complex financial information clearly and effectively to non-financial stakeholders.
