Finance Director

Your new companyHays Senior Finance is partnering with a well-established and ambitious higher education institution in the South West to recruit an exceptional Director of Finance.This is a rare opportunity to join a values-led organisation that is investing in its future and playing a vital role in supporting learners, employers and communities across the region. Located in one of the UK's most desirable coastal locations, the role offers an outstanding lifestyle opportunity for candidates considering a relocation from London, the Midlands or other major cities.Working as part of the senior leadership team, you will play a key role in shaping the organisation's future financial strategy while helping deliver long-term sustainable growth.Your new roleYou will lead the finance function and provide strategic financial leadership across the organisation.Key responsibilities will include:Leading financial planning, budgeting and forecasting activities.Overseeing statutory accounts, financial reporting and regulatory compliance.Providing strategic financial advice to senior leaders and governors.Developing robust financial controls, governance and risk management frameworks.Driving continuous improvement across financial systems, processes and reporting.Supporting commercial decision-making and organisational performance.Leading, developing and inspiring a high-performing finance team.Building strong relationships across academic and professional service functions.This is a highly visible role offering genuine influence and the opportunity to contribute to major strategic decisions.What you'll need to succeedYou will be a qualified accountant (ACA, ACCA, CIMA or CIPFA) with a demonstrable track record of success in a senior finance leadership role within a complex organisation. Experience within the Higher Education sector would be advantageous, although applications from candidates with relevant experience gained in similarly complex environments are equally encouraged.You will be able to demonstrate:Strong strategic and operational finance experience.Excellent stakeholder management and influencing skills.The ability to translate complex financial information into meaningful business insights.Experience of leading change and delivering service improvements.A collaborative leadership style and a passion for developing people.High levels of commercial awareness and business partnering capability.Experience within higher education, education, public sector or similarly complex environments would be advantageous.What you'll get in returnRare opportunity to join a respected higher education organisation.Senior leadership role with significant strategic influence.Outstanding South West location offering an exceptional quality of life.Opportunity to help shape the future direction of the organisation.Competitive salary and benefits package.Relocation opportunity for candidates seeking a better work-life balance while maintaining a senior leadership career.What you need to do nowIf you're looking for a role where you can make a lasting impact while enjoying everything the South West has to offer, we'd love to hear from you. Click 'apply now' to forward an up-to-date copy of your CV, or for a confidential discussion regarding this opportunity, please contact Dan Thomson at Hays Senior Finance.If this job isn't quite right for you, but you are looking for a new position, please contact us for a confidential discussion about your career.

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