Group Head of Finance - Education

Tremendous opportunity for a high calibre and seasoned education or commercial accountant to join the 'Ofsted Outstanding' college as its Group Head of Finance. With a Turnover of GBP48m, 1,100 staff and 8,000 students, the Hadlow Group consists of Hadlow College - a leading agricultural college, a plethora of commercial enterprises and West Kent & Ashford College - a traditional further education college with both academic and vocational offerings. As one of the leading colleges in the country, this is an exciting and challenging place to work. Constantly embarking on innovation and improvements, staff here strive to ensure they continue to be the best. Following the acquisition of West Kent & Ashford College in 2014, the role will play a key part in further integration of the brand, consolidating accounting processes and working efficiently to continue the plans for growth and expansion. Leading a team of 17 the role is responsible for the financial management of both colleges and subsidiaries. The role; * Lead the development of an integrated Finance function across the Hadlow Group concentrating on quality service delivery to meet the needs of all stakeholders * Manage the day to day functions of the Finance Office, including allocating staff resource to ensure maximum operational efficiency, staff appraisals, reviews * Set the annual budget and provide variance analysis reports and forecasts throughout the year * Ensure that the Financial Regulations and policies are reviewed, remain relevant and are complied with * Oversee the production of Management Accounts and Financial Statements and advise on correct accounting treatment * Ensure that ledgers are closed and journals completed within the month end timetable set by the Head of Finance. To provide analysis of any balance to support prepayments, accruals and statutory reporting requirements * Ensure that all taxation matters are fully reported and accounted for * Ensure that all returns to funding bodies are made in a compliant and timely manner * To ensure that processing relating to the Cash Book, Sales Ledger, Purchase Ledger and Nominal Ledger are up to date. To ensure that reconciliations for all assets and liabilities are up to date. To review the ledgers for completeness and accuracy * Agree, implement and maintain processes for the invoicing and collection of debts from students and commercial customers. To agree, implement and maintain processes for the authorization of expenditure and the payment of suppliers in a timely manner. To report on aged debtors and creditors against KPI's. To recommend changes to procedures and to deliver Value For Money * To oversee the operation and development of the finance system to ensure operational efficiency for users, automation of routine processes and production of relevant and reliable management information The successful candidate must be; * Formally qualified, ACA/ACCA/CIPFA/CIMA and have at least 5 years post qualification gained within a large, complex organisation * Able to demonstrate the ability to think strategically as well as ensuring timely reporting * Demonstrate a strong track record of leading teams to deliver * Build effective relationships with budget holders and stakeholders Applications are encouraged from both the private and public sector. In return, you will receive fantastic benefits including 7 weeks holiday, defined benefit pension scheme, health cash plan, free parking, lovely modern office environment. To apply for this position, please email your CV along with covering letter to Robin Eades outlining why you feel you are suitable for the role.