Head Of Finance

Reed; Dudley; On-site; GBP 60,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading education provider in Dudley is seeking a strategic Head of Finance to lead their finance function. This pivotal role involves managing a multi-functional team, developing financial strategy, and overseeing accounting practices. The ideal candidate will be a qualified accountant with leadership experience in finance, excellent communication skills, and a commitment to sustainability. This full-time position offers a salary of up to £70,000 and a generous benefits package, including 35 days annual leave and a supportive environment.

Benefits

Up to 35 days annual leave

Local Government Pension Scheme

Wellbeing initiatives

On-site working flexibility

Free parking

Qualifications

• Qualified accountant status required.
• Experience in finance leadership preferred, ideally in Further Education.
• Strong technical accounting and budget management skills.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage the finance team.
• Develop the college’s financial strategy.
• Oversee accounting, audits, and taxation.
• Drive digital transformation and process improvement.
• Support resource planning.
• Represent the college in external meetings.

Skills

Qualified accountant (CIMA/ACA/ACCA)

Proven leadership experience in finance

Strong technical accounting skills

Excellent communication abilities

Stakeholder engagement abilities

Familiarity with cloud-based finance systems

Job description

Job Opportunity: Head of Finance

Salary: Up to £70,000 (depending on experience)

Location: Dudley, West Midlands

Contract Type: Permanent, Full-Time, part time may be considered

Start Date: December 2025 (flexible for notice periods)

Reed Finance are working exclusively with an education provide and we areseeking a strategic and dynamic Head of Finance to lead its finance function and support the Chief Finance Officer in shaping the college’s financial strategy. This is a pivotal leadership role within a warm, people-focused organisation that values innovation, sustainability, and professional development.

Why apply?

• Generous Benefits Package:

  • Up to 35 days annual leave, including a full two-week Christmas shutdown

  • Local Government Pension Scheme (West Midlands Pension Fund)

  • Wellbeing initiatives and support

  • Time off in lieu for attending open days and events

  • On-site working with flexibility for family needs

  • Free parking available

• A Supportive Environment:

  • Family-run, inclusive culture

  • Low staff turnover in the finance team

  • Strong balance sheet and £55 million turnover

  • Opportunities to contribute to sustainability and digital transformation

Role Overview

As Head of Finance, you will:

• Lead and manage a multi-functional finance team (AP, AR, FM, cashiers)

• Develop and implement the college’s financial strategy

• Oversee management and statutory accounting, audits, and taxation

• Drive digitalisation and process improvement

• Support curriculum and resource planning

• Represent the college in external meetings and deputise for the CFO

What We’re Looking For

• Qualified accountant (CIMA/ACA/ACCA)

• Proven leadership experience in finance, ideally within Further Education, public sector or 3rd sector

• Strong technical accounting skills and strategic budget management

• Excellent communication and stakeholder engagement abilities

• Familiarity with Agresso and cloud-based finance systems - not essential

• Commitment to sustainability, equality, and safeguarding

Please apply as soon as possible. Interviews will take place in early November.