Director of Finance

Location:

Birmingham Job Type: Permanent, Full-time (37 hours per week) We are currently seeking an accomplished Executive Director of Finance to join the senior leadership team of a leading Further Education college based in Birmingham. This strategic role is designed to enhance financial stewardship, drive digital capability, and support sustainable growth within a highly regulated, mission-led environment. Day-to-day of the role:
Strategic Leadership & Team Development:
Lead, mentor, and empower the finance team, fostering a high-performance culture aligned with the college’s values. Serve as a senior advisor to the College Management Team, ensuring financial strategies support educational and organisational goals. Continuously improve financial processes, systems, and frameworks to support growth and sustainability. Deputise for the Vice Principal/CFO when required. Financial Reporting & Planning:
Oversee the delivery of accurate financial statements, management accounts, and reports for internal and external stakeholders. Lead statutory and regulatory reporting in line with ESFA, audit, and sector requirements. Prepare and manage annual budgets, forecasting, and cash flow planning. Provide transparent reporting to the Corporation, Audit Committee, and senior teams. Digital Transformation & Financial Systems:
Maximise the use of digital finance systems, increasing automation and reducing manual processes. Champion the integration of data-driven financial insights to support strategic decision-making across the organisation. Governance, Risk & Compliance:
Ensure compliance with all relevant FE sector financial regulations, standards, and statutory frameworks. Develop robust financial policies and risk-management strategies. Act as the primary contact for auditors, regulators, and funding agencies. Stakeholder & Partnership Management:
Build strong relationships with external partners including auditors, funders, and suppliers. Provide expert financial guidance to leaders and departments across the college. Required Skills &

Qualifications:

Proven senior financial leadership experience within Further Education or a closely regulated public-sector environment. Strong technical knowledge of FE funding, regulatory frameworks, and statutory reporting. Advanced digital skills with experience in modernising finance functions and implementing enhanced financial systems. Exceptional communication and influencing skills at executive level. A strategic mindset with the ability to balance long-term planning with the realities of daily financial management.

Benefits:
Opportunity to impact an FE institution undergoing digital and organisational transformation. Senior leadership influence with direct access to the Executive Team. Access to ongoing training and professional development. An inclusive culture with a strong commitment to wellbeing and work-life balance. Highly competitive salary and benefits package.

To apply for the Executive Director of Finance position, please submit your CV today.