Head of Financial Planning & Business Partnering

Head of Financial Planning & Business Partnering • Location: Central London (Hybrid, 3 days in the office) • Job Type: Full-time • Salary: Circa £73,800 - £75,500 We are seeking a Head of Financial Planning & Business Partnering to lead our dedicated team, reporting directly to the Group Director of Finance. This pivotal role involves enhancing our financial planning, decision-making, and control by providing valuable management information across the organisation. You will also directly support our Executive team through finance business partnering. Day-to-Day Responsibilities: • Leadership and Management: Lead and manage the finance team, setting priorities, providing guidance, and evaluating performance. • Recruitment and Development: Recruit new team members, foster their development, and create a motivating environment to enhance team performance. • Strategic Business Partnering: Act as a business partner to the Executive Principal, supporting both the College Executive Board and Academies Executive Board. • Financial Planning and Control: Coordinate the annual budget setting processes and ensure robust financial controls are in place across the organisation. • Reporting and Analysis: Oversee month-end reporting, manage income postings, and provide financial analysis and forecasting. • Regulatory Compliance: Prepare financial forecasts and accounts returns for regulatory compliance. • Project Support and Investment Oversight: Provide project accounting support and oversee the development of investment cases. • Training and Development: Coordinate the development and delivery of financial training sessions for budget holders. Required Skills & Qualifications: • Professional Qualification: Full membership of a professional accountancy body (ICAEW, ACCA, CIMA, CIPFA, or equivalent) or equivalent knowledge gained through experience. • Education: Bachelor’s degree (BA/BSc or equivalent). • Experience: Proven experience in line management, finance business partnering, budget setting, forecasting, and financial control, preferably in further education or a similarly regulated environment. • Sector Knowledge: Familiarity with education sector funding, regulatory returns, and audit requirements. • Analytical Skills: Strong ability in financial modelling and analysis. • Interpersonal Skills: Excellent communication skills, capable of presenting financial information clearly and persuasively. • IT Proficiency: Advanced skills in MS Excel and technical accounting. Benefits: • Competitive salary and benefits package. • Opportunities for professional development and continuous learning. • A supportive and collaborative working environment. To apply for the position of Head of Financial Planning & Business Partnering, please submit your CV and a cover letter detailing your relevant experience and why you are interested in this role.