Homes for Students is seeking a strategic, delivery-focused Head of Client Finance Enablement to drive the evolution and performance of the Client Finance function. The successful candidate will be based at our Harrogate office and will work 40 hours per week, 9.00am to 5.30pm Monday to Friday.

The role will oversee and support processes to ensure dispersed teams, and service providers are aligned into a unified, efficient operating model, while leading the implementation of systems, processes and technology, including AI, that enable the department to scale with the business.

Key Responsibilities/Accountabilities:

Lead the alignment of dispersed teams and service providers into a consistent, unified approach and operating model with standardised processes, controls and expectations.
Provide oversight and coordination of individuals and teams across multiple locations, ensuring clarity of role, accountability and performance standards.
Lead and manage finance-related change programmes from initiation through to implementation and sustainable embedding into business as usual establishing clear project governance structures for all change activity.
Ensure successful transition of completed initiatives into BAU, with appropriate handover, documentation and support.
Lead the implementation and rollout of finance systems and technology enhancements across the department, including the deployment of AI and automation tools to generate efficiencies, improve accuracy, and reduce manual processing.
Champion the modernisation of finance systems, reporting frameworks and data capabilities.
Coordinate training programmes to support technology adoption and build team capability.
Rationalise and streamline processes across Client Finance, removing duplication and reducing complexity, while identifying inefficiencies and suggesting and designing improvement initiatives.
Support, create, and implement new financial processes as new clients onboard or requirements evolve.
Support with aspects of the annual Client Money Audit programmes and regulatory or compliance-driven finance initiatives.
Work cross-functionally to ensure audit and compliance projects are delivered on time and within agreed scope.

Skills & Competencies

Strong project and programme management capability with a proven record of delivering complex, multi-stakeholder initiatives.
Ability to lead, influence and coordinate teams and individuals without necessarily holding direct line management authority across all areas.
Strong analytical, process design and problem-solving skills.
Excellent stakeholder engagement and relationship management capability across all levels.
Structured and strategic thinker with strong planning and prioritisation skills.
Ability to manage multiple concurrent initiatives while maintaining quality and focus.
Commercially aware with a strong understanding of financial operations and client service delivery.
Confident and effective communicator, both written and verbal, with strong presentation skills.
Curious and forward-looking mindset, with an interest in leveraging technology and AI to drive improvement.
High attention to detail and strong risk awareness.

Personal Qualities

Highly organised, delivery-focused and outcome-oriented.
Self-motivated with strong initiative and a proactive approach.
Adaptable and resilient, comfortable operating in changing and ambiguous environments.
Confident communicator across senior stakeholder groups, able to challenge constructively and build consensus.
Collaborative and able to bring dispersed teams together around common goals and standards.
Strong sense of accountability, ownership and professional integrity.

Experience & Qualifications

Essential

Qualified Accountant (ACCA, ACA, CIMA or QBE) or a strong track record of leading finance transformation and operational improvement initiatives.
Demonstrable experience of aligning teams, rationalising processes and embedding new ways of working within a finance function.
Strong systems knowledge with hands-on experience of finance system implementations and change programmes.
Experience managing or coordinating remote and geographically dispersed teams.

Desirable

Experience in multi-client, property management or service-led environments.
Exposure to AI, automation or digital transformation within a finance context.
Formal project management qualification (PRINCE2, PMP, Agile or equivalent).
Experience within the Purpose-Built Student Accommodation (PBSA) sector or wider property and real estate services.

What's on offer

Generous holiday package of 25 days, plus bank holidays, to recharge and enjoy life outside of work.
Access to a range of exclusive retail discounts to make your money go further.
Take your special day off! Enjoy your birthday with a well-deserved break from work.
Stay active and eco-friendly with our cycle-to-work scheme.
Make a difference in the community with 2 charity days per annum.

At Homes for Students, we believe in equal opportunities and inclusivity. We are proud members of Inclusive Employers, and we value the growth and learning that comes from a diverse team. We encourage applications from candidates of all backgrounds and communities, and we are open to discussing any reasonable adjustments you may require.

If this sounds like the perfect role for you and you possess the necessary skills, knowledge, and experience, we would be thrilled to hear from you. Join our team and make a difference in the lives of students!