Finance director jobs

At Solent Academies Trust, we know that when strong relationships are nurtured, people thrive, and when people thrive, so do the children and young people we serve.

We are a values‑driven organisation, proud to support pupils with Special Educational Needs in environments where connection, respect and belonging sit at the heart of every decision we make. At an exciting and pivotal point in our journey, we are seeking an exceptional Director of Finance to join our senior leadership team.

More than a finance role

This is not a traditional Director of Finance post.

Yes, you will bring strong financial acumen, strategic insight and professional rigour, but what matters most to us is how you lead. We are looking for a thoughtful, relational leader who builds trust with ease, communicates with clarity and warmth, and understands that behind every financial decision are real lives, families and communities.

Working closely with the Chief Finance and Operating Officer, you will play a central role in shaping the Trust’s future. You will lead and develop our finance function with integrity and credibility, guiding a sustainable financial strategy across our academies while navigating the complexities of high‑needs provision. Your work will directly support our ability to deliver outstanding care, education and inclusion for our pupils.

About you

We are particularly keen to hear from people who:

• Are motivated by purpose and driven to make a meaningful difference in young people’s lives
• Bring a collaborative, relational leadership style and build high‑trust, high‑performing teams
• Combine strategic financial expertise with the ability to see the bigger picture
• Lead with professional rigour, empathy and a sense of humour
• Are as comfortable working with people as they are with numbers

You may already be working in education, or you may be looking to bring your expertise from another sector. What matters most is your alignment with our values and your commitment to creating lasting impact.

Why join Solent Academies Trust?

Because here, your work genuinely matters.

You will be part of a compassionate, ambitious community that values difference, prioritises wellbeing and invests in its people. This is a place where your voice is heard, your contribution is recognised and your professional growth is actively supported.

We offer:

• A strong organisational culture rooted in relational practice, belonging and wellbeing
• High‑quality professional development and leadership support
• Local Government Pension Scheme (including a 17.9% employer contribution and 50/50 option)
• Life assurance and confidential wellbeing support services
• A dedicated wellbeing inset day
• Generous annual leave, increasing with service
• A range of additional employee benefits and recognition schemes

This is a rare opportunity to step into a senior leadership role where your financial expertise will shape not only an organisation, but the futures of the children and young people we serve.

To find out more about the role, we encourage informal and confidential conversations with our recruitment partners, Propelo. Please click the apply link to arrange a discussion via our dedicated recruitment website.

In line with Keeping Children Safe in Education guidance, all applicants are required to complete the application form, which is also available on the same website.

Closing date: Wednesday 3rd June, noon
Interviews: Tuesday 23rd June

Solent Academies Trust has a commitment to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children. Successful applicants will be subject to relevant pre-employment checks, including references and enhanced DBS clearance.

Assistant Director of Finance (18 month FTC)
A leading Housing Association in the area

A well-established and forward-thinking Housing Association is seeking an Assistant Finance Director to join on an 18 month Fixed Term Contract. Reporting directly to the CFO, this position offers a unique opportunity to operate as the number two in finance, playing a key role in both strategic leadership and operational delivery.

The organisation provides a broad range of general and supported housing and is recognised for its commitment to delivering high-quality services and positive outcomes for its communities.

This role is ideally suited to a senior finance professional with Housing sector experience who is looking to step into a high-impact leadership role, driving improvements across people, processes, and financial insight.

Key responsibilities

• Lead and develop the finance function, acting as deputy to the CFO
• Oversee financial and management accounting, ensuring robust reporting and controls
• Support financial planning, treasury activities, and development finance
• Drive a high-quality business partnering function across the organisation
• Lead on improving financial processes, systems, and internal controls
• Support the Executive team on business planning, including scenario modelling and stress testing

Requirements

• Fully qualified accountant (ACA / ACCA / CIMA)
• Proven experience within a Housing Association or Registered Provider
• Strong leadership capability, with experience managing and developing teams
• Ability to operate at a strategic level and influence senior stakeholders
• Excellent technical finance skills combined with a commercial, business-partnering mindset
• Strong analytical and systems capability, with confident communication skills

This is an excellent opportunity for an ambitious finance leader looking to step into a director level role within a purpose-driven organisation.