Director of Finance – Hybrid, £75k+ Benefits

About the role

This newly created Director of Finance position sits within a forward‑thinking organisation in Chelmsford. Reporting directly to the Chief Operating Officer, you will shape the finance function and become a key member of the senior leadership team.

Key responsibilities

• Provide strategic financial leadership across the organisation.
• Enhance and elevate financial reporting, controls and governance.
• Lead, develop and mentor a finance team of one direct and seven indirect reports.
• Partner with senior stakeholders to support commercial and operational decision‑making.
• Drive process improvements and efficiencies within the finance function.
• Support long‑term planning, budgeting and forecasting.

Required profile

• Proven track record in a senior finance leadership role (Head of Finance or above).
• Experience in Further Education is highly desirable; candidates from charities, not‑for‑profit, public sector or commercial backgrounds will also be considered.
• Strong leadership skills with experience managing and developing teams.
• Ability to influence at senior level and drive change.
• Locally based in the Mid‑Essex region and seeking progression to a Director‑level position.

Required skills

What we offer

• Newly created role with genuine scope to shape the finance function.
• Clear progression and long‑term career opportunity, including a potential future COO pathway.
• Highly visible position within the senior leadership team.
• Hybrid working model – 4 days in the central Chelmsford office.