Job Description
Main Purpose of Job
The Head of Finance (HoF) is a key member of the executive leadership team, responsible for overseeing the financial strategy, planning, risk management, and reporting of Bader College and Herstmonceux Castle Estate (HCE), ensuring robust financial governance, accurate reporting, and efficient financial processes.
Reporting directly to the Director of the Estate, the post holder acts as a key strategic partner, providing high-level financial guidance, analysis, and oversight. This includes leading on budgeting, financial planning, audit, and statutory compliance, as well as supporting commercial decision-making and long-term financial sustainability.
The HoF ensures that financial operations are efficient, transparent, and aligned with the objectives of both the College and Queen’s University.
Remuneration
· Salary of [Range: £60k to £70k] per annum, plus employment benefits.
· 6.6 weeks annual leave, inclusive of UK bank holidays.
· Group’s Nest Contributory Company Pension Scheme – 5%/ 5%.
· 2 x Death in Service Benefit.
· Immediate access to a Health Cash Plan
· Employee Sickness Benefit after successfully completing the probationary period.
· Group Life and Ill Health Insurance Benefits.
Main Duties and Responsibilities
· Line manage Finance, IT and Health & Safety direct reports, including conducting annual performance reviews.
· Liaise with Queen’s University Financial Services for all required financial reporting.
· Provide strategic recommendations to the CEO and executive team, based on financial analysis and projections.
· Oversee all financial operations including accounting, budgeting, forecasting, tax, and treasury.
· Ensure compliance with statutory law, charity commission requirements, financial regulations, and reporting standards.
· Lead financial planning and analysis (FP&A) to support long-term business goals
· Develop and maintain project profitability and job costing reporting systems.
· Review and approve monthly payments including payroll.
· Manage the online banking payments processes.
· Review and approve the VAT returns prepared by the Finance Assistant, ensuring compliance with all relevant regulations.
· Assist the external auditors in the preparation of the annual statutory accounts for Bader College and HCE.
· Prepare annual budgets and quarterly reforecasts for internal and board-level reporting.
· Develop and maintain 12 month rolling cash flow forecasts.
· Develop and monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) to assess financial health.
· Oversee the preparation of accurate and timely financial statements.
· Manage risk, including financial, legal, and operational, and implement mitigation strategies.
· Lead and develop the finance team, fostering a culture of accountability and continuous improvement.
· Drive efficiency through automation and optimization of financial processes and systems. Undertake other reasonable duties as required.
Additional Duties
Availability to work a full week during peak periods, such as the annual audit process.
Key Results/ Performance Measures
· Timely and accurate production of financial information.
· Reliable budgeting and forecasting processes.
· Achievement of an unqualified audit report.
· Implementation of streamlined systems and best-practice financial processes.
Personal Specification
Essential Qualities
Qualified accountant (ACA, ACCA, CIMA) with at least 5 years post-qualification experience.
Skills and Competencies
· Strong organisational skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines.
· Excellent analytical and problem-solving abilities.
· Ability to interpret data and identify trends and insights.
· Strong written and verbal communication skills.
· Effective interpersonal skills with the ability to work across a wide range of stakeholders.
Knowledge and Experience
· Proven experience in leading a finance team.
· Solid understanding of charity and fund accounting (including SORP).
· Knowledge of VAT regulations, including partial exemption, and payroll tax compliance.
· Track record of implementing improvements in financial systems and processes.
· Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Excel and experience with financial software (e.g. SAGE).
Personal Attributes
· High level of responsibility and accountability.
· Calm under pressure with the ability to manage a heavy workload efficiently.
· Discreet and professional, with a strong commitment to stakeholder service.
· Strong attention to detail and accuracy.
· Commitment to continuous professional development for self and team.
Other Requirements
· Eligibility to work in the UK.
· Successful completion of an enhanced DBS check.