Job Description
Head of Finance – Part‑Time (4 Days a Week)
Location: Esher
Contract: Permanent
Start Date: ASAP
Salary: £50,000–£52,000 (Qualified) | £44,462–£46,384 (Unqualified) - for the 4 days
A well‑established educational organisation set within large, scenic grounds in Surrey is seeking an experienced and strategic Head of Finance to lead its Finance Department and support long‑term financial sustainability. This setting provides high‑quality all‑round education for children and young people, with a strong focus on personal development, achievement and wellbeing.
This role is essential in ensuring robust financial stewardship, commerciality and effective resource planning. Working closely with senior leadership and governors, you will help shape the organisation’s strategic direction by enabling sound financial decision‑making and long‑term planning.
The Opportunity
The Head of Finance will take full responsibility for financial strategy, budgeting, forecasting, reporting and compliance. You will lead a small finance team, oversee key financial processes, ensure strong controls, and support operational and strategic objectives across the organisation.
This position is based onsite four days per week, with occasional event commitments expected.
Key Responsibilities
* Develop and implement financial strategies aligned with organisational goals
* Provide financial planning, risk management and investment advice to senior leaders and governors
* Lead budgeting and forecasting processes and support departments with financial literacy
* Manage cashflow, reserves and monthly management accounts
* Oversee VAT returns and ensure compliance with all tax requirements
* Lead audit preparation and liaise with external auditors
* Ensure strong internal financial controls and awareness of fraud risks
* Oversee income including fees, donations, and contractual arrangements
* Manage reconciliation processes (bank, debtors, creditors, prepayments, accruals, fixed assets and depreciation)
* Lead procurement and contracting, ensuring compliance and value for money
* Support grant applications and fundraising with financial insights
* Update finance policies and ensure compliance with regulatory frameworks including HMRC, Companies House and Charity Commission
* Lead and develop the Finance team, ensuring KPIs and quality standards are met
* Drive digital transformation across financial systems
Person Specification
* Accountancy qualification or substantial relevant experience
* Strong background as a Finance Manager
* Excellent organisational and time‑management skills
* Confidence working across a range of finance systems
* Strong attention to detail
* High‑level written and verbal communication skills
* Ability to liaise professionally with internal and external stakeholders
* Ability to work at pace, both independently and collaboratively
Benefits
* Comprehensive induction and ongoing professional development
* Staff wellbeing programme (including paid wellbeing sessions)
* Staff discount scheme after qualifying period
* Free lunch, tea and coffee during term time
* Free use of leisure and sporting facilities, including a heated indoor pool
* Financial contribution to eye tests and glasses (eligibility applies)
* Employee Assistance Programme
* Free parking and electric car charging
* Staff referral bonus scheme
* Access to coach transport (subject to availability)