Job Description
Head of Finance
£85,000, with generous benefits or £500 day rate
28.97% pension and 37 days annual leave
9‑month interim contract
Edinburgh with occasional travel to other sites
The Scottish Prison Service (SPS) is a dynamic, people‑centred organisation committed to the safety, rehabilitation, and reintegration of individuals in its care. Operating as an Executive Agency of the Scottish Government, the SPS supports approximately 8,000 people across 15 establishments, focusing on reducing reoffending and promoting positive outcomes for individuals, their families, and wider communities. The SPS values equality, human rights, and continuous development, offering staff opportunities to contribute to meaningful work that makes a real difference. With investment in modern facilities and strategies, such as mental health initiatives and gender‑specific support, the SPS emphasises care, compassion, and professionalism in challenging environments. Join the SPS team and help shape a safer, more inclusive society.
The role
SPS is seeking an accomplished and strategic Head of Finance to lead the finance function and support the delivery of our organisational objectives. Reporting to the Director of Finance, the post holder will ensure the effective delivery of financial operations, governance, policy, and strategy. This role will require regular deputising for the Director and active involvement in shaping strategic priorities across the SPS.
You will oversee financial and management accounting, policy and systems, and finance business partnering. Responsibilities include managing creditor payments, treasury functions, statutory reporting, capital accounting, and providing timely, accurate financial reporting. Additionally, you will deliver statutory annual accounts, manage financial planning and budgeting, maintain the finance risk register, and ensure adherence to financial controls and policies.
This is a unique opportunity to influence financial strategy and support a mission‑driven organisation dedicated to public safety and rehabilitation.
The ideal candidate should have:
* Expert knowledge of financial regulations and technical accounting
* Strategic‑level experience working with Executive/Project Boards in complex environments
* Proven experience leading and motivating senior finance teams and managing high‑level projects
* Ability to develop strategic relationships and influence internal/external stakeholders
* Experience leading finance teams through transformation and developing processes to achieve goals
* Strong decision‑making skills; able to analyse complex issues and deliver innovative solutions
* Excellent written and verbal communication; able to convey complex information effectively
* Public sector accounting experience (statutory accounts, Scottish Government budgeting) is desirable.
You can contact Lauryn Pringle or Debbie Shields at Aspen People for a confidential discussion about the role on 0141 212 7555.
If you are interested, please get your application to us at your earliest convenience to be considered.
More information can be found within the document below:
* Job Description and Person Specification
To apply, please submit your CV and cover letter (as one combined document) via the apply button.
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