Finance Director

FEA; Greater London; On-site; GBP 125,000 - 150,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading college group in the UK is seeking a Head of Finance to oversee financial operations and governance. The successful candidate will lead budgeting, forecasting, and compliance, while driving digital transformation initiatives. This role calls for a qualified accountant with senior leadership experience in Further Education, ensuring effective internal controls and managing a high-performing finance team. Apply before the closing date for this exciting opportunity.

Qualifications

• Strong knowledge of Further Education funding and planning.
• Experience in senior finance leadership roles.
• Ability to drive digital transformation and value-for-money initiatives.

Responsibilities

• Lead financial operations including management accounts and budgeting.
• Ensure compliance with ESFA/DfE requirements.
• Develop a high-performing finance team.

Skills

Financial leadership

Budgeting

Forecasting

Compliance management

Multi-site operations

Value-for-money initiatives

Education

Qualified accountant (ACA, ACCA, CIMA or equivalent)

Job description

Our client is a leading college group committed to delivering outstanding education and fostering a culture of accountability, transparency and continuous improvement. They support their students and staff through strong governance, collaborative leadership and a focus on statutory and ethical standards.

Reporting to the CFO, you will lead financial operations including management accounts, budgeting, forecasting, reporting, cashflow and audit preparation. You will ensure robust governance, compliance with ESFA/DfE requirements and effective internal controls. You will also oversee procurement, payroll and financial systems while driving value-for-money initiatives and supporting digital transformation.

As a senior leader, you will provide expert financial insight to executives and Governors and contribute to long‑term strategic planning. You will lead and develop a high‑performing Finance team, promoting a culture of accountability and continuous improvement. You will be a qualified accountant (ACA, ACCA, CIMA or equivalent) with senior finance leadership experience in Further Education and have strong knowledge of FE funding, planning and multi‑site operations.

Our client has appointed FE Associates to support them with this important appointment. Contact [e-mail], to find out more about this exciting opportunity before applying.

Closing date: 9am on Tuesday 27 January 2026

Interview date: To be confirmed