Head of Finance

Bishop Auckland College; Bishop Auckland; On-site; GBP 50,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

A regional educational institution located in Bishop Auckland is looking for a passionate Head of Finance to oversee its Finance Department. This role involves leading financial operations, managing the finance team, and ensuring compliance with financial regulations. Ideal candidates should possess strong financial accounting skills, enjoy operational delivery, and have the ability to engage in strategic planning. Join a supportive leadership team committed to making a significant impact on the college’s financial future.

Qualifications

• Strong experience in financial accounting and operational management.
• Ability to thrive in managing teams and processes effectively.
• Understanding of compliance, controls, and accurate financial reporting.

Responsibilities

• Lead the financial accounting services and treasury management.
• Oversee audit processes and ensure compliance with regulations.
• Produce accurate management accounts and support budget holders.
• Manage payroll, pensions, and staffing budgets.

Skills

Financial accounting

People management

Compliance knowledge

Strategic insight

Job description

About the Role

We are seeking a highly motivated Head of Finance to lead the day to day operations of our Finance Department. This is a hands on role, focused on ensuring smooth delivery of financial services, effective management of the team and maintaining strong internal controls. While the primary focus is operational — management accounts, payroll, procurement and audit processes — you will also contribute to strategic planning and financial decision making when required, working closely with the Assistant Principal – Finance & Resources.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the delivery of financial accounting services, treasury and cash flow management
• Oversee internal and external audit processes and ensure compliance with financial regulations
• Produce accurate monthly management accounts and support budget holders with financial insight
• Manage payroll, pensions and staffing budgets.
• Oversee procurement and contract management, ensuring value for money and compliance
• Provide operational support while contributing to strategic planning.
• Lead, manage and develop the Finance team, promoting continuous improvement and professional growth

About You

• Has strong experience in financial accounting and management
• Thrives in operational delivery and enjoys managing people and processes
• Understands the importance of compliance, controls, and accurate reporting
• Can step into strategic discussions when required, offering insight and challenge
• Is a collaborative leader who motivates and develops their team

Why Join Us

This is an exciting opportunity to make a real impact by ensuring the Finance Department runs smoothly and effectively, while also shaping the future financial landscape of the College. You’ll be part of a supportive leadership team, with opportunities to grow and contribute at both operational and strategic levels.

To discuss any aspects of the role further please contact Lynn Heighton, Assistant Principal – Finance & Resources at [e-mail].

Key information

• Hours: 37 hours per week, permanent position to commence as soon as possible
• Post: No.: RS25/26/98
• Closing date: Monday 15 December 2025 at 12 noon
• Planned date for interviews: Wednesday 17 December 2025

This role will include responsibilities within safeguarding and the postholder will be engaging in regulated activity.

Bishop Auckland College Group are committed to and value equality of opportunity, inclusion and diversity.

Bishop Auckland College Group are committed to the safeguarding and welfare of all learners and any offer of employment will be subject to receipt of a satisfactory enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check as well as other required pre-employment checks.

For an application pack, please contact [e-mail] or visit our website.