Director of Finance

Salary: £65,000 - £70,000 per annum Hours: 36 hours per week Location: St Helens College Reporting to: Deputy Chief Executive / Chief Finance Officer (CFO)

Shape the Future of Further Education

St Helens College is seeking an exceptional finance professional to join our Senior Leadership Team as Director of Finance.

This is an excellent opportunity for a qualified accountant, or someone with equivalent experience, and proven leadership capability to play a key role in securing the long-term financial sustainability and continued success of one of the region’s leading further education colleges.

Reporting directly to the Deputy Chief Executive/CFO, you will lead our Finance and Procurement functions and help drive the strategic and operational delivery of the College's ambitious plans. 

About the Role

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. 

Key responsibilities include:

• 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.

What We're Looking For

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

You will be:

• 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 within Further Education or a similar publicly funded environment would be advantageous. 

Why Join St Helens College?

At St Helens College, we are committed to transforming lives through learning. You will join a values-driven organisation that places learners at the heart of everything we do while providing a supportive and inclusive environment for colleagues to thrive.

In return, we offer:

• 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.

Safeguarding Statement

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. 

Be part of shaping the future of St Helens College and the communities we serve.

Apply now and help us deliver financial excellence that supports inspiring education.

Closing date:                 10 August 2026

Shortlisting:                   12 August 2026

Interview dates:           17 August 2026 & 25 August 2026