At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead financial strategy and governance in a growing education organisation.
- Company: Dynamic education sector organisation with a focus on growth and collaboration.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, professional development, and a supportive work environment.
- Other info: Join a team that values wellbeing and empowers you to influence the future.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in a strategic leadership role during an exciting growth phase.
- Qualifications: Qualified accountant with senior finance leadership experience and strong analytical skills.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 75000 £ per year.
A growing and ambitious organisation within the education sector is seeking an experienced and strategic Head of Finance to lead and develop its central finance function. Reporting directly to the Executive team, this is a senior leadership appointment with broad responsibility across financial strategy, governance, operational delivery and long‑term planning. This opportunity would suit a qualified finance professional who combines commercial awareness with strong financial stewardship and enjoys working in a complex, multi‑site environment.
The Opportunity
- Provide strategic leadership across all financial activity, ensuring strong governance, effective controls and sustainable financial performance across the organisation.
- Work closely with the executive team and Board to shape financial strategy while leading day‑to‑day finance operations and supporting future growth.
- Lead and develop the organisation's finance function and team.
- Drive long‑term financial planning, budgeting and forecasting.
- Ensure robust financial governance, compliance and risk management.
- Deliver annual accounts, statutory returns and audit requirements.
- Produce meaningful financial reporting and insight for senior stakeholders and Board reporting.
- Manage financial controls, systems and process improvement initiatives.
- Oversee payroll, pensions, banking and treasury activities.
- Support procurement activity and identify value and efficiency opportunities.
- Develop KPIs and performance measures to support strategic objectives.
- Support organisational growth and integration activity across multiple sites.
About You
- You will be a fully qualified accountant (ICAEW, ACCA, CIMA or CIPFA) with senior finance leadership experience gained within a complex organisation.
- Strong financial management and governance expertise.
- Experience leading budgeting, forecasting and financial planning cycles.
- The ability to interpret financial information and influence decision‑making.
- Experience presenting to senior leadership teams and Boards.
- Excellent leadership and stakeholder management capability.
- Strong analytical and problem‑solving skills.
- Experience improving systems, controls and operational processes.
- Education sector experience and understanding of academy or public‑sector finance environments is essential.
- Knowledge of PS Financials or similar finance systems would be advantageous.
Why Apply?
This is an opportunity to join an organisation at an exciting stage of growth and development, offering genuine strategic influence and visibility across the leadership team. The organisation promotes collaboration, wellbeing and professional development and offers an environment where people are empowered to make a lasting impact.
This appointment is subject to safeguarding checks including Enhanced DBS clearance and pre‑employment screening. Applications are welcomed from all backgrounds.
Head of Finance employer: Vitae Financial Recruitment Limited
Join a dynamic and forward-thinking organisation in the education sector as the Head of Finance, where you will play a pivotal role in shaping financial strategy and governance. Located in Enfield, North London, this hybrid position offers a collaborative work culture that prioritises employee wellbeing and professional growth, ensuring you have the support and resources to make a meaningful impact. With competitive remuneration and a commitment to fostering talent, this is an excellent opportunity for finance professionals looking to advance their careers in a complex and rewarding environment.
Contact Details:
Vitae Financial Recruitment Limited Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Finance
✨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.
✨Get Certified
Consider pursuing relevant certifications like the CFA or ACCA while you’re job hunting. They not only beef up your CV but also connect you with professional bodies which can lead to networking opportunities and even job openings in banking and financial services.
✨Connect on Professional Platforms
Join finance-focused groups on platforms like LinkedIn and engage in discussions. This can really help you stand out from the crowd, allowing potential employers to see your knowledge and interest in industry trends. Plus, you might stumble upon job postings shared exclusively within the group.
✨Apply Directly and Be Proactive
Don’t shy away from reaching out directly to firms like Vitae Financial Recruitment Limited. Use their websites and apply through them, but also consider following up with a polite email to express your enthusiasm. Being proactive can make a huge difference in getting noticed in the competitive financial services sector.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Finance
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 Vitae Financial Recruitment Limited.
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 Vitae Financial Recruitment Limited'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 Vitae Financial Recruitment Limited
✨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 Vitae Financial Recruitment Limited.
✨Prepare for Case Studies
Expect to tackle case studies that demonstrate your problem-solving skills in real-world banking scenarios. Familiarise yourself with the types of problems you might face—think risk assessments or investment evaluations—and be ready to articulate your thought process clearly.
✨Show Your Passion for Finance
Since this is a full-time position, employers at Vitae Financial Recruitment Limited 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 Vitae Financial Recruitment Limited 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.
