Interim Head of Finance

Hays are delighted to be supporting a well-established and values-driven organisation in the Edinburgh area with the appointment of an interim Head of Finance. This is a unique opportunity for a qualified accountant to join an organisation undergoing an exciting period of transformation and development. Working closely with senior leadership, you will play a pivotal role in enhancing financial processes, improving systems and supporting strategic planning across the wider organisation. This position offers a blend of project leadership, finance transformation and stakeholder engagement, making it ideal for an experienced finance professional who enjoys driving change and delivering continuous improvement.

The Role

Reporting to the Director of Corporate Services, you will lead a range of financial improvement projects focused on strengthening financial reporting, enhancing systems and supporting long-term business planning. You will work closely with finance colleagues, budget holders and senior stakeholders to ensure financial information is accurate, insightful and supports effective decision-making. This is a highly visible role that will suit an individual with strong technical expertise, excellent communication skills and a passion for improving processes and systems.Key Responsibilities

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• Lead the review, development and enhancement of financial systems and processes
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• Improve the monthly management accounts process, reporting and financial analysis
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• Support the delivery of budgeting, forecasting and long-term business planning activities
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• Work closely with senior stakeholders to provide meaningful financial insight and recommendations
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• Drive process improvements and automation initiatives to increase efficiency and reduce manual administration
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• Support year-end accounts preparation and coordinate with auditors and budget holders
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• Develop financial reporting tools and templates to improve business planning and decision-making
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• Lead and influence change initiatives across finance and corporate services functions
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• Ensure robust financial controls, governance and reporting processes are maintained
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• Build strong relationships with internal and external stakeholders to support project delivery and organisational objectives
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Candidate Profile

Hays are seeking an experienced and forward-thinking finance professional who is passionate about continuous improvement and enjoys leading change within a collaborative environment.
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• Qualified Accountant (CA, ACCA, CIMA or equivalent)
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• Strong post-qualification experience within a finance leadership, projects or transformation role
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• Proven experience improving finance systems, processes and reporting capabilities
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• Strong management accounting, planning and financial analysis skills
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• Experience leading complex projects and delivering organisational change
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• Excellent stakeholder management and communication skills
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• Ability to influence and engage colleagues at all levels
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• Strong problem-solving skills with a proactive and solutions-focused approach
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Desirable:

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• Experience within the charity, not-for-profit or public sector
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• Financial systems implementation or upgrade experience
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• Exposure to business planning and organisational transformation projects
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• Experience working with auditors and supporting year-end reporting processes
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What's on Offer

An opportunity to join a highly respected organisation in a visible and impactful leadership role. You will have the chance to shape financial processes, influence strategic planning and drive meaningful change across the organisation. The role offers a collaborative and supportive working environment, exposure to senior stakeholders and the opportunity to leave a lasting mark through the successful delivery of key financial improvement projects. If you're a qualified accountant with a passion for transformation, systems improvement and business partnering, we'd be keen to hear from you.

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