Head of Finance and Governance

Your new company

Hays are proud to be working with a high-profile, purpose-led public sector organisation to recruit a Head of Finance & Governance. This is a unique opportunity to step into a strategic leadership role within an organisation delivering vital services across Northern Ireland, offering an excellent package including 25 days' annual leave rising to 30 days plus 12 public/privilege holidays, access to a highly attractive defined benefit pension, hybrid flexible working, a 37-hour week, and a permanent full-time contract based in central Belfast
-making it an ideal opportunity for a senior finance professional seeking both long-term stability and a genuinely rewarding, purpose-driven role.

Your new role

As a key member of the Senior Management Team, you will lead the Finance & Governance function, providing strategic direction while ensuring robust financial control, compliance, and accountability across the organisation.

You will play a critical role in shaping financial strategy, strengthening governance frameworks, and supporting executive leadership and the Board with expert advice.

Key responsibilities include:

• Leading the development and delivery of financial strategy, corporate plans, and governance frameworks
• Managing a large and complex budget (£20m+), ensuring effective forecasting, reporting, and control
• Overseeing financial operations, reporting cycles, and statutory compliance
• Driving continuous improvement across systems, processes, and policies
• Leading on risk management, audit engagement, and governance assurance
• Supporting senior stakeholders, including the CEO and Board, with high-quality financial and strategic advice
• Building and maintaining strong relationships with government bodies, partners, and stakeholders
• Leading, developing, and motivating a high-performing finance and governance team

• Experience with in a public sector or regulated governance environment
• Exposure to oversight of governance processes (e.g. audit, complaints, compliance frameworks)

• Salary: £61,673 - £64,469
• Annual leave: 25 days rising to 30 days (plus 12 public/privilege days)
• Pension:
  Access to an attractive defined benefit public sector scheme
• Flexible working:
  Hybrid model
• Hours:
  
  37 hours per week, Monday-Friday
• Job security:
  Permanent, full-time appointment
• Location:
  
  Central Belfast offices