Executive Finance Director

Join a thriving Sixth Form College at the heart of its community

We are seeking an exceptional and values-driven Executive Finance Director to join our senior leadership team at a pivotal time in the College’s growth and development.

This is a rare opportunity to play a strategic and influential role in shaping the future of a high-performing Sixth Form College, through ensuring financial sustainability while enhancing our outstanding student experience at the centre of all we do.

About the role

Reporting directly to the Principal, the Executive Finance Director holds overall responsibility for the College’s financial strategy, governance, and operational financial management. The role also provides leadership across key professional support teams including Finance, Payroll, IT, Estates and Catering Services. 

You will act as a trusted advisor to the Principal, Senior Leadership Team and Governing Body, providing high-quality financial insight, ensuring robust compliance, and enabling informed strategic and operational decision-making.

Working collaboratively across the College, you will ensure that financial planning, resource allocation, and risk management are fully aligned to our vision, values and long-term strategic objectives.

About you

We are looking for an experienced, highly credible finance leader who combines strategic confidence with technical excellence, strong values and a commitment to education.

Essential requirements include:

• A recognised professional accounting qualification (CCAB or equivalent)
• Significant senior-level financial leadership experience in a complex organisation
• Substantial and demonstrable experience within ideally the Further Education and/or Sixth Form College, or broad education sector, with a strong understanding of its funding, regulatory and operational landscape
• Proven experience of leading financial strategy, planning and organisational change
• Strong knowledge of audit, risk management and governance frameworks
• A track record of working effectively with Boards or Governing Bodies
• Exceptional leadership, communication and stakeholder engagement skills

You will be a collaborative and resilient leader, able to balance strategic vision with operational delivery, and committed to achieving the very best outcomes for students and staff.

Our values

We are proud of our inclusive, supportive and ambitious community. All staff are expected to actively contribute to:

• Safeguarding and promoting the welfare of young people
• Equality, diversity and inclusion at every level
• The highest standards of professionalism and integrity
• The distinctive ethos and values of the College

Why join us?

• A key strategic leadership role with real impact
• The opportunity to shape the future of a successful and growing college
• A collaborative (fun!), and forward-thinking senior team
• A strong commitment to professional development and wellbeing

If you would like an informal explorative conversation with the current postholder, please arrange this via: Harpreet.jossan@aoc.co.uk

View the college website here

We'd love to tell you lots more about this role, so please provide your details, and we’ll be in touch shortly