At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead financial planning and analysis to drive strategic decision-making.
- Company: Dynamic higher education institution focused on innovation and excellence.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, professional development, and a chance to shape the future.
- Why this job: Make a real impact by turning financial insights into actionable strategies.
- Qualifications: Qualified accountant with experience in leading finance teams.
- Other info: Join a collaborative environment that values resilience and adaptability.
The predicted salary is between 68000 - 102000 £ per year.
Are you ready to take the lead in a role that sits at the heart of strategy, performance, and decision-making? We’re looking for a dynamic finance leader who thrives on turning numbers into insight and insight into action.
In this role, you will:
- Drive the organisation's budgeting, forecasting and planning cycles, ensuring every decision is backed by strong financial direction.
- Deliver sharp, timely analysis that sparks performance conversations and informs big-picture choices at the top table.
- Build and evolve financial models and scenario tools that don’t just explain the future — they help shape it.
- Lead, mentor and inspire a talented FP&A team, setting the bar high for collaboration, impact, and excellence.
- Partner with senior executives as a trusted advisor, bringing clarity, challenge, and strategic foresight.
We’re looking for someone who:
- Is a qualified accountant (ACA, ACCA, CIMA) with deep post-qualification experience.
- Has led FP&A or strategic finance teams in complex, fast-moving organisations.
- Knows how to influence at executive level and is comfortable steering board-level conversations.
- Brings strong commercial instincts and expertise in strategic financial management and investment appraisal.
- Thrives in complexity — resilient, adaptable, and energised by shaping the unknown into opportunity.
- Combines sharp analytical skills with outstanding communication and storytelling ability.
Head of Financial Planning employer: Trace | Expert Accountancy & Finance Recruitment
Contact Detail:
Trace | Expert Accountancy & Finance Recruitment Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Financial Planning
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the finance sector and let them know you're on the hunt for a Head of Financial Planning role. You never know who might have the inside scoop on an opportunity or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for those interviews by brushing up on your storytelling skills. Be ready to share how you've turned numbers into actionable insights in your previous roles. We want to hear about your successes and how you've influenced decision-making at the top table!
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t just apply anywhere; focus on organisations that align with your values and vision. When you find a role that excites you, apply through our website to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves!
✨Tip Number 4
Showcase your leadership skills! In your conversations, highlight how you've mentored teams and driven collaboration. We want to see how you can inspire others and set high standards in financial planning and analysis.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Financial Planning
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV speaks directly to the job description. Highlight your experience in financial planning and any leadership roles you've had. We want to see how you can drive budgeting and forecasting cycles!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to tell us why you're the perfect fit for this role. Share specific examples of how you've influenced decision-making at an executive level and how you’ve led teams to success.
Showcase Your Analytical Skills: We love numbers, but we also love stories! When you describe your past experiences, make sure to include how your analytical skills have led to impactful decisions. We want to know how you turn data into actionable insights.
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it shows us you’re keen on joining the StudySmarter team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Trace | Expert Accountancy & Finance Recruitment
✨Know Your Numbers
As a candidate for the Head of Financial Planning, you need to be on top of your financial game. Brush up on key financial metrics and be ready to discuss how you've used data to drive decisions in previous roles. This will show that you can turn numbers into actionable insights.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
You'll be leading a talented FP&A team, so it's crucial to demonstrate your leadership style. Prepare examples of how you've mentored and inspired teams in the past. Highlight specific instances where your guidance led to improved performance or collaboration.
✨Prepare for Strategic Conversations
Expect to engage in discussions that require strategic foresight. Familiarise yourself with the organisation's current financial landscape and think about how you would approach budgeting and forecasting. Be ready to share your thoughts on potential challenges and opportunities.
✨Communicate Clearly and Confidently
Strong communication is key, especially when influencing at the executive level. Practice articulating complex financial concepts in a straightforward manner. Use storytelling techniques to make your points relatable and impactful, ensuring you connect with your audience.