We are hiring a Head of Finance to lead our Finance and Commercial function. Reporting to the Executive Director of Resources, you will lead financial planning, budgeting and analysis, financial control, accounting and reporting, finance operations, procurement and payroll. This is a key leadership role in the Resources Directorate and the wider Senior Leadership Group, suited to a qualified accountant who combines technical authority with the ability to build trusted, collaborative relationships across an organisation.

Your responsibilities will include

*        Lead the Finance and Commercial function, setting direction and developing a team that is trusted, responsive and continuously improving.

*        Own the Annual Report and Accounts and the external audit process, jointly with Governance and Communications colleagues. delivering on time and securing a clean audit opinion.

*        Maintain a robust framework of internal financial control, financial policies and Financial Regulations, and provide assurance on their operation.

*        Lead budget setting, the medium-term financial strategy, fee reviews, scenario modelling and monthly management reporting.

*        Oversee finance operations, including purchase to pay, income and credit control, treasury and the development of the finance system.

*        Lead procurement, ensuring value for money, legal compliance and the highest standards of probity, and provide expert commercial advice across the organisation.

*        Ensure accurate and timely payroll and pension administration.

*        Provide expert financial advice to Council and its Committees, including the preparation and presentation of papers.

Person Specification

We are looking for candidates that have:

*        A current accountancy qualification with ICAEW, CIMA, ACCA or equivalent.

*        A solid track record of leading and managing a successful finance function.

*        Excellent interpersonal skills and a collaborative style based on mutual trust and respect, offering support and constructive challenge while upholding high professional standards.

*        Experience of developing medium term financial strategies and operating robust budgetary control.

*        Experience of leading the statutory accounts and external audit process in compliance with audit and accounting standards.

*        Implemented and maintained a strong financial control framework, alongside oversight of procurement and payroll.

*        The confidence and credibility to advise Council and its Committees and to represent the organisation with external stakeholders.

*        A commitment to continuous improvement of processes, systems and ways of working.

Further information on this role is detailed in the Job Description and Person Specification (click to download).

Rewards and Benefits: 30 days holiday + bank, 8% employer pension contribution, enhanced employee assistance and lifestyle rewards, free online 24/7 GP, Ongoing training and professional membership support

Advert Closing Date: 9th September 2026, (all vacancies will close at 1pm)
First Interviews: Week Commencing 14th September 2026

Final Interviews: Wednesday 30th September 2026 - in person at our office in London SE11.

At final interview a presentation to the panel is required; details will be provided to successful candidates, in addition a competency-based interview and the opportunity to meet with colleagues across the organisation.

Application Process

*        Please submit your CV and a supporting statement demonstrating how you meet the job responsibilities and person specification.

*        Applications without a supporting statement may not be considered.

***        We reserve the right to close vacancies early due to high application volumes and therefore encourage you to apply early.

*        We are unable to provide feedback at application stage.

*        Candidates will be notified promptly of the outcome at each stage.

Important Information

Candidates must:

*        Permanently reside in the UK and have the right to work in the UK.

*        Agree to HCPC’s hybrid working policy, requiring a minimum attendance of 1-2 days each week in the London office, with additional days as required.

*        Provide original document checks, as part of pre-employment screening.

*        Complete a Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) criminal record check.

Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion

The HCPC's vision is to be recognised as an actively anti-discriminatory organisation that upholds and promotes best practice in equality, diversity and inclusion and an active ally for change. We aspire to have a diverse and inclusive workplace and strongly encourage suitably qualified applicants from a wide range of backgrounds to apply to join the HCPC. Please refer to the HCPC's Behavioural Standards Framework.