Interim Head of Finance Controlling

Interim Head of Finance
London (2 days per week onsite) 4-Month Day Rate Contract

Savant is proud to be partnering with a prestigious, large organisation within the education sector to appoint an exceptional Interim Head of Finance
. This is a high-impact, short-term leadership opportunity within a complex and mission-driven environment, offering immediate exposure to senior stakeholders and critical financial priorities.

This role sits at the heart of financial accounting, complex reporting, tax compliance and strategic financial management. The successful candidate will bring strong technical expertise, proven leadership capability and the ability to deliver at pace within a dynamic, evolving organisation.

Reporting into the Finance Director, you will provide hands‑on oversight of financial accounting operations while ensuring high-quality statutory reporting, robust balance sheet control and effective audit delivery. You will play a key role in maintaining business continuity across core financial cycles and providing stability, insight and leadership during a critical period.

This is a visible role requiring confidence in working with senior executives, external auditors and regulatory bodies.

• Oversight of financial accounting, controls and statutory reporting

• Leadership of the year-end process and management of external audit relationships

• Ownership of key tax areas, including VAT, corporate tax and broader compliance

• Delivery of complex financial reporting and regulatory returns

• Strategic input into financial planning cycles and policy development

• Responsibility for financial services supporting research funding and fundraising activity

• Leadership, motivation and development of a high-performing finance team

• Qualified accountant (essential), ideally from a top‑tier practice background

• Significant management experience, with a track record of leading and developing strong teams

• Deep technical accounting expertise within medium or large, complex organisations

• Extensive exposure to complex reporting frameworks and regulatory requirements

• Strong tax knowledge, including VAT and corporate tax

• Ability to build credibility quickly with senior stakeholders

• Experience with in a large not-for-profit or public sector organisation is highly desirable

• Available to commit to a 4‑month assignment and operate on a hybrid basis (London office 2 days per week)