Finance Director

Harper May is partnering with a leading education group that is seeking an experienced Finance Director to lead its financial operations and strategic planning. With a diverse set of educational programmes and a commitment to long-term sustainability, the group is looking for a senior finance leader to strengthen controls, drive operational efficiency, and support strategic development across the organisation.

Role Overview:
As Finance Director, you will be responsible for the leadership and delivery of all financial planning, reporting, and compliance activities. You will work closely with the executive leadership team to shape financial strategy, oversee key improvement projects, and ensure robust financial management across the group.

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead all financial operations including monthly management accounts, forecasting, and year-end statutory accounts

• Ensure compliance with relevant regulatory frameworks, funding body requirements, and audit standards

• Oversee budgeting, planning, and financial monitoring processes across departments

• Deliver effective internal reporting, financial insight, and business analysis to support strategic goals

• Maintain and develop strong internal controls, financial systems, and procedures

• Manage balance sheet control, VAT and corporation tax compliance, and fixed asset management

• Act as a key point of contact for external auditors, tax advisors, and funding bodies

• Lead and develop the finance team, setting clear performance objectives and supporting professional development

• Partner with cross-functional teams on business improvement initiatives, systems upgrades, and process enhancements

Key Requirements:

• ACA / ACCA / CIMA qualified with significant post-qualified experience

• Strong leadership experience within education, public sector, or a regulated organisation

• Proven track record of delivering management and statutory reporting in a complex, multi-stakeholder environment

• Experience in financial planning, budgeting, and performance monitoring

• Strong working knowledge of tax compliance, audit preparation, and financial governance

• Excellent Excel and systems skills; experience with ERP platforms is advantageous

• Clear, confident communicator with the ability to influence at senior and Board level

• Demonstrated ability to lead and develop teams and support organisation-wide change initiatives