Head of Finance - Education

HEAD OF FINANCE - EDUCATION

STOURBRIDGE

UP TO 45,900 (Negotiable to 48,500) + Excellent Pension + Holidays + Benefits

THE COMPANY:

We're exclusively partnering with a leading education institution that is seeking a Head of Finance to join the organisation.

As Head of Finance, you'll be reporting to the CFO and be responsible for managing of the finance and commercial team which consists of approximately 6 direct reports. The role will be a mixture of people management, deadline management and analytical reporting, in effect, leading all aspects of the busy finance function. As this role is a succession plan due to planned future retirement, in time, the responsibilities will grow.

This role is likely to suit an individual who is a Management Accountant or Finance Manager that is looking for the next step in their career, or someone who is already operating at a Financial Controller / Head of Finance level. It's a great opportunity to join a reputable organisation where you can professionally grow.

THE HEAD OF FINANCE ROLE:

• Assist the Finance Director in developing and implementing financial strategies, policies and procedures to support the College's financial objectives.
• Through the Finance Manager, oversee and manage the day-to-day financial operations including accounts payable, accounts receivable and general ledger.
• Through the Payroll Manager, oversee and manage the day-to-day payroll and pensions operations.
• Ensure the accuracy and integrity of financial information by conducting regular reconciliations and audits.
• Provide financial analysis and insights to colleagues including budgeting, forecasting and financial performance reports for income, pay and non pay areas.
• Collaborate with other managers and colleagues to develop and monitor departmental budgets and to ensure compliance with Financial Regulations and other College policies.
• Manage and mitigate financial risks by implementing effective controls and risk management strategies.
• Stay up to date with sector information and guidance, advising the Chief Finance Officer & Vice Principal and Finance Director on potential impacts and opportunities.
• Provide leadership and guidance to finance and payroll team members, fostering an ambitious and positive culture and collaborative work environment.
• Prepare and present financial information to the Finance Director, Chief Finance Officer & Vice Principal, College Leadership Team and other stakeholders.
• Attend meetings with external stakeholders such as auditors, bankers, local authorities and funding bodies to address financial matters and provide necessary information and documentation.
• Work closely with curriculum colleagues to ensure that agreed contribution rates are achieved.
• Act as the finance lead on all new activities ensuring they are financially robust and in line with strategic plans. Monitor and report on all new activities.
• Alongside the Finance Director, to lead on the month and year-end processes and close-down, including the preparation of Financial Statements for external audits.
• Reconciliation and allocation of funding agency data to income streams.

THE PERSON:

• A fully - qualified accountant (ie. ACCA, ACA, CIPFA, CIMA etc) or a finalist that will complete their qualification within the first 12 months of employment
• Candidates from a Management Accountant or Finance Manager role (or similar) who are looking to step up OR individuals who are already at Financial Controller / Head of Finance level (or similar) will be considered.
• A minimum of 5 years' experience in a similar role, ideally within an educational setting, however, candidates from NHS, Not for Profit, Charities, Local Government and Private Sector Businesses are welcome to apply
• Strong financial acumen and understanding of financial principles, regulations and best practices.
• Detailed understanding of relevant funding body funding methodologies.
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to identify and resolve complex financial issues.
• Strong Excel skills with a working understanding of PowerBI and other financial reporting and analysis tools and software.
• Excellent attention to detail and a high degree of accuracy in financial data analysis and reporting.
• Strong leadership and management skills with the ability to motivate and develop a finance team.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to effectively collaborate with internal and external stakeholders.
• The ability to effectively convey complex finance issues to non-finance colleagues.
• Knowledge of financial risk management strategies and have the ability to develop and implement effective controls.

TO APPLY: Please send your CV for the Head of Finance role via the advert for immediate consideration.

Get Recruited is acting as an Employment Agency in relation to this vacancy.