Financial Controller

Please note that any candidates without experience of working within FE will not be selected.

Job Title: Interim Finance Controller

Location: Further Education (FE) College

Contract Type: Interim / Day Rate

Rate: Up to £80,000 equivalent (Day rate – dependent on experience)

Start Date: Immediate

Reporting To: Director of Finance / CFO

To provide strong financial leadership and operational oversight within a Further Education (FE) College environment. The Interim Finance Controller will ensure robust financial control, compliance with funding regulations, and timely financial reporting to support strategic and operational decision-making.

• Lead and manage the finance function, ensuring strong financial controls and governance.
• Oversee monthly management accounts, forecasting, and cash flow reporting.
• Ensure compliance with ESFA funding regulations and FE financial reporting requirements.
• Support budget setting, financial planning, and year-end statutory accounts preparation.
• Liaise with internal and external auditors.
• Provide financial insight and challenge to senior leadership.
• Review and improve financial systems, processes, and controls where required.
• Line management of finance team members.

• Fully qualified accountant (CIMA or ACCA).
• Proven experience working within a Further Education (FE) College environment.
• Strong knowledge of FE funding, compliance, and financial reporting frameworks.
• Demonstrable experience operating at Finance Controller or senior finance level.
• Available immediately to interview and commence the assignment.
• Experience in leading finance teams within an education or public sector setting.
• Experience supporting funding audits and regulatory returns.

• Strong leadership and stakeholder management skills.
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving ability.
• Ability to work at pace in a dynamic environment.
• High levels of integrity and attention to detail.