Job type
PermanentLocation
BelfastWorking Pattern
Flexible Working,Full-timeSpecialism
Senior Finance QualifiedIndustry
Government & Public ServicesPay
Attractive Salary + Benefits & Pension
ACCA, CIMA, ACA
Your new company
Hays are proud to be working with a high-profile, purpose-led public sector organisation to recruit a Head of Finance & Governance. This is a unique opportunity to step into a strategic leadership role within an organisation delivering vital services across Northern Ireland, offering an excellent package including 25 days’ annual leave rising to 30 days plus 12 public/privilege holidays, access to a highly attractive defined benefit pension, hybrid flexible working, a 37-hour week, and a permanent full-time contract based in central Belfast —making it an ideal opportunity for a senior finance professional seeking both long-term stability and a genuinely rewarding, purpose-driven role.
Your new role
What you'll need to succeed
What you'll get in return
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.
Hays are proud to be working with a high-profile, purpose-led public sector organisation to recruit a Head of Finance & Governance. This is a unique opportunity to step into a strategic leadership role within an organisation delivering vital services across Northern Ireland, offering an excellent package including 25 days’ annual leave rising to 30 days plus 12 public/privilege holidays, access to a highly attractive defined benefit pension, hybrid flexible working, a 37-hour week, and a permanent full-time contract based in central Belfast —making it an ideal opportunity for a senior finance professional seeking both long-term stability and a genuinely rewarding, purpose-driven role.
Your new role
As a key member of the Senior Management Team, you will lead the Finance & Governance function, providing strategic direction while ensuring robust financial control, compliance, and accountability across the organisation.
You will play a critical role in shaping financial strategy, strengthening governance frameworks, and supporting executive leadership and the Board with expert advice.
Key responsibilities include:
- Leading the development and delivery of financial strategy, corporate plans, and governance frameworks
- Managing a large and complex budget (£20m+), ensuring effective forecasting, reporting, and control
- Overseeing financial operations, reporting cycles, and statutory compliance
- Driving continuous improvement across systems, processes, and policies
- Leading on risk management, audit engagement, and governance assurance
- Supporting senior stakeholders, including the CEO and Board, with high-quality financial and strategic advice
- Building and maintaining strong relationships with government bodies, partners, and stakeholders
- Leading, developing, and motivating a high-performing finance and governance team
This is a highly visible leadership role with significant influence across organisational direction and performance.
What you'll need to succeed
- Full professional accountancy qualification (ACA / ACCA / CIMA / CIPFA or equivalent)
- At least 5 years’ post-qualified experience
- Proven experience managing large, complex budgets (£10m+)
- Experience operating within a public-facing or service delivery environment
- Senior leadership experience advising Boards and committees on governance, finance, and risk
- Strong stakeholder management skills, with the ability to influence at senior level
Desirable:
- Experience within a public sector or regulated governance environment
- Exposure to oversight of governance processes (e.g. audit, complaints, compliance frameworks)
What you'll get in return
- Salary: £61,673 – £64,469
- Annual leave: 25 days rising to 30 days (plus 12 public/privilege days)
- Pension: Access to an attractive defined benefit public sector scheme
- Flexible working: Hybrid model
- Hours: 37 hours per week, Monday–Friday
- Job security: Permanent, full-time appointment
- Location: Central Belfast offices
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.
