Director of Finance

• Day rate: up to £350 per day
• Location: Derbyshire
• Job Type: Full-time, Interim: 3-6 month contract
• Hours: 5 days a week - 3 days on site

We are seeking a Director of Finance to lead, mentor, and develop our finance and procurement functions, fostering a culture of continuous improvement and high performance. This role is accountable for the effective management, reporting, and control of the Group’s financial operations, ensuring compliance with regulations and delivering excellent customer service.

• Lead, manage, and develop the Finance team across various functions including Management Accounts, Financial Accounting, Systems, and Transactional teams.
• Provide effective financial support to the College’s Faculties and Support functions, assisting them in achieving their business and financial objectives.
• Oversee the production and presentation of financial reporting for the Group, including monthly management accounts and statutory annual accounts.
• Manage Treasury operations efficiently, including cash flow forecasting and banking requirements.
• Ensure compliance with financial policies, procedures, and regulatory bodies, maintaining the Finance risk register and reporting to the Audit Committee on relevant matters.
• Manage payroll operations and procurement, ensuring efficiency and compliance with financial regulations.
• Coordinate and lead financial appraisals and recovery plans as needed.
• Oversee the annual budgeting process, working with budget holders to set and agree on budgets focused on value for money.

• Significant experience leading a finance team within a complex organisation, ideally in the education or public sector.
• Strong technical accounting skills with the ability to interpret complex financial data and provide actionable insights.
• Excellent IT skills with a strong understanding of financial systems and reporting processes.
• Proven experience in strategic financial planning, budgeting, and forecasting.
• Fully qualified CCAB accountant or equivalent.
• Strong communication skills, capable of managing multiple priorities and working under pressure.

To apply for the Director of Finance position, please submit your CV and cover letter detailing your relevant experience and why you are interested in this role. Ensure your application highlights your leadership capabilities, your experience in financial management within complex organisations, and your ability to foster a culture of continuous improvement