Head of Finance

  • Vitae Financial Recruitment
  • Jun 25, 2026
Full time Accounting

Job Description

Head of Finance Enfield, North London (Hybrid)
Permanent Full Time 60,000 - 75,000 plus Benefits

A growing and ambitious organisation within the education sector is seeking an experienced and strategic Head of Finance to lead and develop its central finance function.
Reporting directly to the Executive team, this is a senior leadership appointment with broad responsibility across financial strategy, governance, operational delivery and long-term planning.
This opportunity would suit a qualified finance professional who combines commercial awareness with strong financial stewardship and enjoys working in a complex, multi-site environment.

The Opportunity
As Head of Finance, you will provide strategic leadership across all financial activity, ensuring strong governance, effective controls and sustainable financial performance across the organisation.
Working closely with the executive team and Board, you will shape financial strategy while leading day-to-day finance operations and supporting future growth.

Responsibilities will include:
Leading and developing the organisation's finance function and team
Driving long-term financial planning, budgeting and forecasting
Ensuring robust financial governance, compliance and risk management
Delivering annual accounts, statutory returns and audit requirements
Producing meaningful financial reporting and insight for senior stakeholders and Board reporting
Managing financial controls, systems and process improvement initiatives
Overseeing payroll, pensions, banking and treasury activities
Supporting procurement activity and identifying value and efficiency opportunities
Developing KPIs and performance measures to support strategic objectives
Supporting organisational growth and integration activity across multiple sites

About You
You will be a fully qualified accountant (ICAEW, ACCA, CIMA or CIPFA) with senior finance leadership experience gained within a complex organisation.
You will also demonstrate:
Strong financial management and governance expertise
Experience leading budgeting, forecasting and financial planning cycles
The ability to interpret financial information and influence decision-making
Experience presenting to senior leadership teams and Boards
Excellent leadership and stakeholder management capability
Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
Experience improving systems, controls and operational processes
Education sector experience and understanding of academy or public-sector finance environments is essential
Knowledge of PS Financials or similar finance systems would be advantageous

Why Apply?
This is an opportunity to join an organisation at an exciting stage of growth and development, offering genuine strategic influence and visibility across the leadership team.
The organisation promotes collaboration, wellbeing and professional development and offers an environment where people are empowered to make a lasting impact.

This appointment is subject to safeguarding checks including Enhanced DBS clearance and pre-employment screening. Applications are welcomed from all backgrounds.

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