The client is seeking a Finance Director or Chief Finance Officer to join their team in a permanent role. The position requires someone with a strong background in finance leadership, particularly from diverse and underrepresented backgrounds. The client is a unique higher education provider that aims to challenge traditional university models and increase accessibility for students who might not typically consider attending university. They have achieved strong academic results and expanded their student base, and they are now entering a new phase of growth. The role requires a decisive individual who can help shape this growth by implementing a dynamic finance strategy while working closely with various stakeholders, including the CEO, strategic leadership team, the board, and shareholders.
As the Finance Director or Chief Finance Officer, the successful candidate will play a pivotal role in ensuring the financial function is aligned with the institution's goals. This involves not only managing financial strategy, planning, forecasting, governance, and revenue generation but also supporting the client through a period of expansion and investment. The role requires someone who enjoys a fast-paced, autonomous work environment and who is committed to maintaining the institution's culture and values while prioritizing student success. The client emphasizes the importance of clarity in financial strategy, rigorous planning, and a motivation to drive growth while upholding their distinct educational model.
Essential qualifications for the role include significant experience as a financial leader in a similarly complex UK organization, along with a full accounting qualification and experience leading finance teams. Candidates should have substantial experience in higher education or comparable regulated sectors, with skills in managing budgets, financial strategy development, and governance. The ability to navigate regulated environments, a strategic mindset, and effective communication with senior stakeholders are crucial. Candidates should be resilient, demonstrate ethical leadership, and align with the clients values and mission.