Interim Director of Finance

Rate: £600+ per day

Hays are seeking an exceptional interim Director of Finance to lead the finance function in a established charity based in Plymouth, ensuring financial sustainability and driving strategic decision-making in support of the organisations strategy.

This role is available on a interim basis whilst the organisation sources a permanent hire for the role. Therefore this role is likely to be up to 6 months in length (potentially longer).

The Role

Reporting to the Chief Financial Officer (CFO), you will play a pivotal role in shaping the organisations financial strategy, overseeing financial planning, reporting, internal audit, and procurement. You will lead a large team of finance professionals, ensuring robust financial governance and operational excellence.

As a key member of the leadership team, you will collaborate across faculties and professional services, contributing proactively to institutional strategy and decision-making.

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead and develop a high-performing finance team, ensuring strong leadership, professional development, and continuous improvement.
• Oversee financial planning and forecasting, ensuring long-term financial sustainability.
• Deliver insightful financial reporting and data analysis to inform strategic decisions.
• Maintain a strong financial control framework, ensuring compliance with regulations.
• Manage procurement strategies to optimise efficiencies and deliver value.
• Oversee internal audit, risk management, and financial business continuity planning.
• Support major projects, including pension strategy, subsidiaries review, and professional services transformation.

About You

You will be a proven finance leader with a track record of strategic financial management in a complex organisation. Whether from higher education, public sector, or large commercial organisations, you will bring expertise in financial planning, governance, and team leadership.

• Qualified Accountant (ACA, ACCA, CIMA, CIPFA) with substantial post-qualification experience.
• Strong strategic, analytical, and commercial acumen.
• Exceptional leadership skills, with the ability to motivate and inspire teams.
• Excellent stakeholder management, able to influence at senior levels.
• Knowledge of regulatory and financial compliance frameworks (desirable: experience within HE, charity, or public sector).

#4666206 - Thomas Hayes