Director of Finance

Job Summary

The closing date for applications is Sunday 26th April 2026. We are committed to fostering an inclusive workplace that reflects the diverse communities we serve. We welcome applications from candidates of all backgrounds and experiences. We recognise that candidates may not meet every criterion; if you believe you can bring the leadership, expertise and values needed for this role, we encourage you to apply. We are open to discussing flexible working arrangements.

Main Duties of the Job

The postholder will lead the strategic and commercial finance function and deputise for the CFO where required. In this capacity, the postholder will lead on key initiatives within the financial strategy to enable financial sustainability of the Trust, ensure the Trust complies with the NHS financial regime, and promote better business decision making throughout the organisation. The finance function will act as a professional advisor on complex financial and business issues, supporting both operational and strategic development.

Job Responsibilities

• Corporate Responsibilities: Develop and maintain productive and supportive working relationships with Executive Directors, Non Executive Directors, Divisional Directors, Service Managers and Clinical Directors. Liaise with external agencies and the Chief Financial Officer to inform and advance the Trust's strategic and operational agenda.
• Financial Leadership: Contribute to the development of the strategic vision and direction of the Finance function, setting challenging objectives in line with the Trust's strategic direction. Provide leadership, develop financial and analytical capability, and promote profit and loss mindset across finance and operational staff. Ensure the highest standards of professionalism and compliance with external standards and best practice.
• Trust and Financial Strategy: Provide strategic financial leadership through the development and implementation of plans that secure the Trust's financial sustainability. Interpret changes in national financial and commercial policy from a commercial and financial perspective to support strategic decisions.

Person Specification Education and Qualifications

• CCAB recognised accountancy qualification.
• Management qualification or equivalent experience.
• Continuing Professional Development.
• Relevant master's degree qualification or equivalent experience.

Experience

• Demonstrable relevant experience in finance at a senior management level.
• Experience working at a strategic level, recognising direction and implications of policy.
• Thorough understanding of the NHS, its strategic directions and implications.
• Experience in business planning processes, business case appraisal and assessment to support capital resource allocation.
• Experience developing, setting, and leading strategy at all levels of the organisation.
• Experience developing, leading and implementing change to support strategic delivery.

Skills, Abilities and Knowledge

• Sound analytical skills dealing effectively with large quantities of complex data, producing clear, understandable recommendations.
• Good knowledge of the Trust, its aims, targets, structures and activities.
• Detailed knowledge of the NHS as a whole and the implications of policy.
• Effective contribution to decision making within the Division/Directorate and wider Trust.
• Ability to ensure the finance department aligns with operational needs.
• Ability to contribute to the strategic direction of the Trust with a broad view.
• Excellent communication skills, able to convey complex or sensitive financial information persuasively at all organisational levels.
• Ability to predict or calculate resources and time needed for activities, making realistic predictions and contingency plans.

Other Requirements

• Highly developed interpersonal skills to explain complex technical issues concisely.
• Capability to manage targets and objectives while providing expert advice to the Trust.
• Discretion, initiative and independent judgment to interpret policies and establish operational goals.
• Judgement on financial decisions where precedent is lacking and conflicting opinions may arise.
• Understanding of risk and ability to advise appropriate action.
• Adaptability and constructive response to change across varied situations.
• Logical decision-making based on factual information.
• Application of varied styles and approaches to maximise effectiveness.
• Visualisation of tasks, processes and outcomes across situations.
• Previous staff management experience, demonstrating good leadership practice.
• Persuasion skills at all levels, including Executive Directors and clinicians, respecting their views.
• Ability to set a course of action for self and others to achieve objectives.
• Contribution to effective team working within the Finance Department and other senior teams.
• Promotion of the Finance Department within the Trust.
• Motivation of staff, focus on key issues, commitment to organisational and personal staff development.
• Performance under pressure with realistic expectations.
• Alignment with Trust values.

Disclosure and Barring Service Check

This post is subject to the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act (Exceptions Order) 1975 and requires aDisclosure to the Disclosure and Barring Service to check for any previous criminal convictions.

UK Registration

Applicants must hold current UK professional registration.