Head of Finance

Aspen People; Aberdeen City; On-site; GBP 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading educational institution in Scotland seeks a Head of Finance to drive financial operations and strategic planning. The successful candidate will be an experienced finance leader, responsible for compliance, efficiency and team management. This role involves advising the Strategic Leadership Team and ensuring financial accountability across the college.

Qualifications

• Significant experience in managing complex financial operations.
• Knowledge of accounting standards and financial legislation.
• Proven track record in delivering financial strategy and overseeing audits.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage the finance function to ensure robust operations.
• Provide financial insights to support decision-making and strategic planning.
• Develop and foster a high-performing finance team.

Skills

Financial leadership

Team management

Strategic planning

Financial reporting

Communication

Influencing

Negotiation

Education

Degree-level qualification

Fully qualified accountant

Current member of CCAB body

Job description

Aspen People is working in partnership with NESCol to appoint a new Head of Finance,

About us

NESCol is one of the largest providers of vocational education and training in Scotland, committed to being at the heart of positive change across the communities it serves. The curriculum is diverse and evolving. NESCol works closely with industry partners to ensure the skills required in the jobs market are reflected in their courses.

About the role

This is a pivotal leadership role where you will shape the financial future of the College by leading our finance function with strategic insight and operational excellence. Reporting to the Assistant Principal - Finance & Estates, you will be responsible for delivering robust financial operations, policy, and strategy, while ensuring compliance, efficiency, and innovation across all finance-related activities.

As Head of Finance, you will lead and develop a high-performing team, including budgeting, management accounts and operational finance delivery, fostering a culture of collaboration, continuous improvement, and professional growth. You will also act as a key advisor to the Strategic Leadership Team, providing timely and accurate financial insights to support decision-making and strategic planning.

About you

We are seeking an experienced and forward-thinking finance leader with a strong track record in managing complex financial operations. You will hold a degree-level qualification, a fully qualified accountant and a current member of a recognised CCAB body.

You will bring significant experience in financial leadership within a diverse organisation, with deep knowledge of accounting standards, audit requirements, and financial legislation. Your background will include successful delivery of financial strategy, financial reporting, budget development and management, and change initiatives. Experience in leading audits and overseeing financial systems and controls is essential.

You will be a confident communicator and team leader, capable of building strong relationships across the College and with external stakeholders. Your ability to influence, negotiate, and drive innovation will be key to your success in this role.

For more information please visit https://www.aspenpeople.co.uk/nescol/

Application Process

For a confidential discussion, please contact Katharine Price, Donogh O'Brien, or Gillian Blackadder at Aspen People on 0141 212 7555.

Closing date: Monday 21st July 2025

If successful you will be required to attend on the following days / locations:

Chemistry Interviews: Wednesday 13th August (virtual)

Interview Date: Tuesday 26th August - in person (in person)