Assistant Director (Finance Strategy & Support)

Assistant Director (Finance Strategy & Support): A Strategic Leadership Opportunity

For ambitious finance professionals seeking to make a tangible impact, this Assistant Director (Finance Strategy & Support) role presents a compelling career advancement. This position offers a unique opportunity to work at the heart of financial strategy and business management, directly supporting a Chief Financial Officer (CFO) within a dynamic educational institution. If you possess a sharp strategic mind, a robust financial acumen, and a drive for operational excellence, this role is designed for you.

Key Advantages for Aspiring Candidates:

• High-Impact Leadership: This is a pivotal role where your insights and strategies will directly influence decision-making at the highest levels. You will be instrumental in shaping the financial direction and future developments of the organization.
• Strategic Involvement: Beyond day-to-day financial management, you'll be deeply engaged in strategic planning, investment appraisals, and producing critical briefings. This offers significant exposure to long-term financial forecasting and the ability to analyze the impact of change across various horizons.
• Senior Stakeholder Engagement: You will have the opportunity to build and nurture influential relationships with senior leaders across the University, students, and external stakeholders. This collaborative environment fosters professional growth and expands your network.
• Representational Authority: This role includes the significant responsibility of representing the CFO in meetings and committees, and occasionally deputizing. This is an excellent platform to develop your leadership presence and confidence.
• Comprehensive Financial Scope: You will gain invaluable experience in costing new initiatives, analyzing financial performance, and ensuring the smooth delivery of financial and business operations, with specific attention to HE/FE SORP and VAT regulations.

Key Considerations for Your Career Path:

• Professional Qualification and Experience: The role requires a strong foundation. Candidates should be professionally qualified (e.g., CCAB or equivalent) with a relevant degree/postgraduate qualification and possess significant post-qualification experience in financial management and strategic planning.
• Strategic Thinking and Problem-Solving: Success hinges on your ability to think strategically, identify financial implications, and develop well-reasoned recommendations. A proactive approach to problem-solving is essential.
• Interpersonal and Communication Skills: Exceptional interpersonal skills are paramount. You must be adept at communicating complex financial information clearly and persuasively to diverse audiences, and possess the confidence to lead and represent the CFO effectively.
• Discretion and Professionalism: Given the senior nature of the support provided, a high degree of professionalism and discretion is expected.

This Assistant Director position is more than just a job; it's a stepping stone for a finance professional looking to elevate their career into strategic leadership. It offers a challenging yet rewarding environment where your contributions will be recognized and valued. If you are ready to take on a role with significant responsibility and influence, we encourage you to explore this exciting opportunity further.