The Isle of Wight College
Director of Finance and Resources circa £75K
At the Isle of Wight College, we’re more than just an educational institution, we’re a vibrant community dedicated to inspiring futures and transforming lives. Working here means joining a team that values innovation, collaboration, and personal growth. You’ll have the opportunity to make a real difference for learners of all ages while enjoying the unique benefits of living and working on the beautiful Isle of Wight. If you’re passionate about education and want to be part of a supportive, forward-thinking environment, this is the place for you.
Isle of Wight College – Exceptional Leadership Opportunity
Are you an accomplished finance professional with extensive experience in the Further Education (FE) sector?
The Isle of Wight College is seeking a dynamic and visionary Director of Finance and Resources to join our senior leadership team. This is a rare opportunity to advance your career in a role that combines strategic influence, operational leadership, and the unique lifestyle benefits of living on the Isle of Wight.
Discover the Isle of Wight Lifestyle - Experience the best of both worlds:
- Stunning Natural Beauty: Enjoy breathtaking coastlines, tranquil countryside, and vibrant local communities.
- Work-Life Harmony: Benefit from hybrid working arrangements and flexible hours, allowing you to make the most of island living.
- Relocation Support: We offer a relocation package to help you settle into your new home with ease.
- Rich Culture and Leisure: From sailing and cycling to arts, music festivals and historic sites, the Isle of Wight offers an enviable quality of life all within a 20 minute ferry crossing to Southampton or Portsmouth.
Why the Isle of Wight College?
- Strategic Influence: Reporting directly to the Chief Operating Officer and Deputy CEO, and play a pivotal role in shaping the college’s financial future.
- Career Advancement: This is a high-profile appointment offering significant scope for professional growth and progression within a dynamic educational environment.
- Relocation Support: A comprehensive relocation package is available to facilitate your move to the Isle of Wight.
- Hybrid Working and Flexibility: Benefit from a progressive working culture, enabling you to balance professional ambition with personal wellbeing.
Your Role in Shaping Our Future - As Director of Finance and Resources, you will:
- Lead Finance Strategy: Shape and deliver the college’s financial vision, ensuring resilience, sustainability, and compliance with FE sector benchmarks.
- Senior Leadership Collaboration: Work closely with the Chief Operating Officer, Deputy CEO, and the wider senior leadership team to drive strategic initiatives and support curriculum planning.
- Risk Management and Audit: Oversee risk management policies, maintain the college’s risk register, and act as the key liaison for internal and external audits, ensuring robust governance and accountability.
- Financial Forecasting: Direct financial modelling, scenario planning, and forecasting to inform decision-making and secure the college’s future.
- Estate Development: Guide the development and management of college estates, supporting capital programmes and ensuring a safe, high-quality environment for staff and students.
- Team Leadership: Lead and inspire the finance, payroll, estates, and health and safety teams to foster a culture of excellence and continuous improvement.
Who We’re Looking For - We are seeking a qualified CCAB accountant (CIMA, ACCA, CIPFA, ICAEW) with:
- Extensive FE Sector Experience: Demonstrable success in senior finance roles within Further Education, with deep understanding of funding methodologies, regulatory frameworks, and sector-specific challenges.
- Strategic and Operational Acumen: Expertise in financial management, audit, risk, and estate development at executive level.
- Leadership and Influence: Proven ability to lead change, motivate teams, and build effective partnerships with senior stakeholders.
- Analytical Excellence: Advanced skills in financial analysis, reporting, and the use of management information systems.
- Commitment to Values: Dedication to safeguarding, inclusion, and continuous professional development.
Ready to drive strategic transformation and make a lasting impact?
Apply now to join the Isle of Wight College and take your career to the next level in an inspiring location. Please contact the HR Team by emailing recruitment@IWCollege.ac.uk to obtain our recruitment pack.
Please be aware that the Isle of Wight College may close the vacancy earlier than anticipated if a sufficient number of applications are received.
Would you like to find out more before you apply? Please email Fidelma Washington, Chief Operating Officer/Deputy CEO, at Fidelma.Washington@IWCollege.ac.uk – we’d love to hear from you.
The Isle of Wight College is committed to creating a diverse and inclusive environment for all employees. We are proud to be an equal opportunity employer and welcome applications from all individuals, regardless of race, religion, gender, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, or age. We believe that a diverse workforce enhances our ability to provide high-quality education and fosters a culture of mutual respect and understanding. Join us in our mission to promote equality and inclusivity in education.
The Isle of Wight College is a Disability Confidential Employer.
The successful candidate will be required to undergo an enhanced DBS check. This is to ensure the safety and well-being of our students and staff. The Isle of Wight College is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment.