Job type
PermanentLocation
EssexWorking Pattern
Flexible Working,Full-timeSpecialism
Senior Finance QualifiedIndustry
Charities & Not For ProfitPay
Circa £80,000 p/a + LGPS
Further Education College is seeking to recruit a Qualified Accountant as Deputy Director of Finance
A leading Further Education college in Essex is seeking to appoint an exceptional Head of Finance / Deputy Director of Finance to play a key role in leading and developing its finance function. This is a confidential opportunity for an experienced and collaborative finance leader who is ready to take the next step in their career. The ideal candidate will have a proven track record of success in a Further Education college.
The Role
Reporting to the Director of Finance, you will provide leadership across the finance team, ensuring high-quality financial management, robust controls, and insightful reporting to support strategic decision-making. You will also:
- Lead on financial planning, budgeting, and forecasting
- Deliver accurate and timely statutory and management reporting
- Champion a business partnering approach across academic and support divisions
- Develop and improve systems, processes, and the capability of the finance function
- Work collaboratively with senior leaders across the organisation
- Support long-term strategic planning and funding bids
This is a visible and influential leadership role with the opportunity to make a lasting impact.
The Ideal Candidate
We are seeking a qualified accountant (ACA, ACCA, CIMA or equivalent) who brings:
- A proven track record of driving improvement in a finance team
- Proven experience of working in Further or Higher Education
- Demonstrated success in collaborating with non-finance stakeholders
- Strong experience in financial and statutory reporting
- A proactive, strategic mindset with excellent interpersonal skills
- A commitment to continuous improvement and innovation
✅ Experience in the Further Education sector is essential.
What’s on Offer
- Flexible and hybrid working (minimum on-site presence required)
- Membership of the Local Government Pension Scheme (LGPS)
- Enhanced annual leave entitlement
- A progressive, supportive working environment with clear leadership
- A platform for professional growth, with succession potential to Finance Director
What you need to do now
If you're interested in this role, click 'apply now' to forward an up-to-date copy of your CV, or call us now.
If this job isn't quite right for you but you are looking for a new position, please contact us for a confidential discussion on your career.
