Director of Finance

St Helens College is seeking an exceptional finance professional to join our Senior Leadership Team as Director of Finance. Salary is £65,000‑£70,000 per annum, with 36 hours per week, based at St Helens College and reporting directly to the Deputy Chief Executive / CFO. Shape the Future of Further Education.

As Director of Finance, you will provide strategic leadership across all aspects of the College's financial management, including financial planning, reporting, compliance, procurement and resource management. You will lead the development and implementation of the College's Finance Strategy, ensure robust financial controls and support informed decision‑making across the organisation.

• Leading the Finance and Procurement Teams.
• Producing and presenting monthly management accounts and financial reports.
• Preparing annual budgets, forecasts and statutory accounts.
• Managing external audit processes.
• Ensuring compliance with financial, tax, VAT and procurement regulations.
• Supporting major strategic projects and financial reviews.
• Building effective relationships with budget holders and key external College stakeholders.
• Deputising for the Deputy Chief Executive/CFO when required.

We are looking for a confident and collaborative finance leader who combines strong technical expertise with excellent leadership and communication skills.

• A fully qualified accountant (CCAB or CIMA), or able to demonstrate substantial relevant experience within a further education environment.
• Experienced in financial planning, management accounting, statutory reporting and financial forecasting.
• A skilled leader with a track record of developing and motivating high‑performing teams.
• Commercially aware with the ability to influence decision‑making at senior level.
• Committed to continuous improvement, collaboration and excellence.
• A person of integrity who inspires confidence and builds strong professional relationships.

Experience with in Further Education or a similar publicly funded environment would be advantageous.

• The opportunity to influence the strategic direction of the College.
• Membership of an ambitious and supportive Senior Leadership Team.
• Excellent professional development opportunities.
• A generous annual leave entitlement.
• Access to the Local Government Pension Scheme.
• A comprehensive package of staff benefits and wellbeing support.

St Helens College is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults. All appointments are subject to satisfactory pre‑employment checks, including an enhanced DBS check.