At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead financial operations and drive strategic improvements in budgeting and reporting.
- Company: Community-focused organisation making a real difference in Hertfordshire.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, strong benefits, hybrid working, and supportive culture.
- Why this job: Make a meaningful impact while shaping the future of a vital community organisation.
- Qualifications: ACA/ACCA/CIMA qualified with senior-level financial management experience.
- Other info: Direct exposure to the Executive Team and opportunities for personal growth.
The predicted salary is between 42000 - 84000 £ per year.
I'm supporting a long-standing Hertfordshire organisation that plays a vital role in supporting the local community. They're looking for a Head of Financial Strategy & Operations to work closely with the Executive Team and lead the finance function through its next phase of modernisation, stability and growth.
This is a genuinely impactful leadership role - ideal for someone who wants responsibility, visibility, and the chance to make a meaningful difference in an organisation that exists for more than just the numbers.
The Role
Reporting directly into the Head of Finance, you'll take ownership of financial operations while driving strategic improvements across budgeting, reporting, controls and processes. It's a hands-on leadership position, supported by a capable team, and will suit someone who enjoys balancing the operational with the strategic.
You'll work closely with department leads across the organisation, helping them understand financial performance, sharpening forecasting, and ensuring solid financial governance is embedded throughout.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead and develop the finance team, ensuring high standards and a collaborative culture
- Oversee month-end, year-end and statutory reporting
- Own budgeting, forecasting and long-range planning processes
- Strengthen internal controls, financial policies and processes
- Partner with operational leaders to support performance and decision-making
- Provide robust insight and analysis to improve financial sustainability
- Lead on external audit, compliance, and risk-management
- Play a key role in financial strategy alongside the CFO and Executive Team
What You'll Bring
- ACA / ACCA / CIMA qualified
- Senior-level experience across financial management, planning and operations
- Confident leadership skills with the ability to influence across the organisation
- Strong communication - able to simplify complex financial information
- A proactive and improvement-focused mindset
- Multi-service or multi-site experience beneficial but not essential
Why This Role?
- High-impact, purpose-driven leadership role
- Direct exposure to the Exec Team and Board
- Hybrid working and a supportive culture
- Salary up to £70,000 + strong benefits
- A chance to shape the future of a major community-focused organisation
Deputy Head of Finance employer: Vitae Financial Recruitment
Contact Detail:
Vitae Financial Recruitment Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Deputy Head of Finance
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the finance sector and let them know you're on the lookout for opportunities. You never know who might have the inside scoop on a role that’s perfect for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the organisation thoroughly. Understand their financial strategies and challenges, so you can showcase how your skills can make a real impact. This will help you stand out as a candidate who truly gets their mission.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your leadership stories! Be ready to share examples of how you've led teams and improved financial processes in the past. This will demonstrate your capability to take ownership and drive strategic improvements.
✨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 are proactive about their job search!
We think you need these skills to ace Deputy Head of Finance
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV reflects the skills and experiences that align with the Deputy Head of Finance role. Highlight your leadership experience and financial management skills, as these are key for us.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you’re passionate about this role and how you can contribute to our mission. Keep it concise but impactful.
Showcase Your Achievements: Don’t just list your responsibilities; showcase your achievements in previous roles. Use numbers and examples to demonstrate how you’ve made a difference in financial operations or strategy.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you don’t miss out on any important updates from us!
How to prepare for a job interview at Vitae Financial Recruitment
✨Know Your Numbers
As a Deputy 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 strategic decisions in the past. This shows you can translate numbers into actionable insights.
✨Showcase Leadership Skills
This role requires strong leadership abilities. Prepare examples of how you've led teams, fostered collaboration, and influenced stakeholders. Highlighting your experience in developing a positive team culture will resonate well with the interviewers.
✨Understand the Organisation's Mission
Since this position is about making a meaningful impact, research the organisation's community initiatives. Be prepared to discuss how your financial strategies can align with their mission and contribute to their goals. This shows you're not just about the numbers.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect questions that assess your problem-solving skills in real-world scenarios. Think about challenges you've faced in financial operations and how you overcame them. Practising these responses will help you articulate your thought process clearly during the interview.