Group Finance Director

About Cognita:

Cognita is a global leader in independent education. Founded in 2004, we are a growing community of 90 schools in 21 countries – in Europe, North America, Latin America, Asia and the Middle East – serving more than 100,000 students. Each of our schools is proudly unique, however our collective purpose is to create an environment where everyone can, "Thrive in a rapidly evolving world".

We are seeking an exceptional Group Finance Director to play a pivotal role at the heart of our organisation, serving as the Group CFO’s right‑hand person and a key strategic partner. This is a high‑profile leadership opportunity for an experienced finance executive who combines outstanding technical expertise with commercial insight and the ability to influence at Executive and Board level. You will lead the Group Finance function, driving financial strategy, planning, reporting, governance and performance across a complex, multinational, multi‑entity business.

Working closely with senior leaders, you will provide robust financial analysis to support growth, investment, acquisitions and transformation initiatives, while ensuring the highest standards of financial integrity, compliance and internal control. You will also support treasury and liquidity management, champion continuous improvement and finance transformation, and develop a high‑performing finance team capable of meeting the organisation’s future ambitions.

This is a hybrid position, working 2‑3 days per week in our Central London office.

The successful candidate will hold a recognised professional accounting qualification (ACA, ACCA, CIMA or equivalent) and bring significant senior leadership experience, ideally within a private equity‑backed, multinational or listed environment. Experience of Big 4, M&A, business transformation and finance systems implementation would be advantageous. This is an outstanding opportunity for a strategic, commercially focused finance leader looking to make a significant impact in a dynamic and ambitious organisation.

Complete this application before the closing date. The closing date for applications is:
Sunday 5th of July 2026.

Cognita Schools is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. We expect all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. All appointments are subject to safer recruitment checks, including an enhanced DBS check. Our Safeguarding and Child Protection Policy is available on the school website. Details on Recruitment of Ex‑Offenders is included within the Application Guidance.

We are an equal opportunities employer committed to diversity and treating all employees with dignity and respect regardless of background.

Early applications are encouraged, we reserve the right to interview and appoint prior to the closing date for the right applicant.