Head of Finance Strategy, Planning and Costing(UK Visa Sponsorship)

Job Description

Oerview of the Role

Tees Esk and Wear Valleys NHS Foundation Trust is seeking a dynamic and forward-thinking Head of Finance Strategy, Planning and Costing to join its senior finance leadership team.

This position offers the opportunity to contribute to the financial sustainability and long-term strategic planning of services that support individuals living with mental health conditions, learning disabilities, and autism. The role is ideal for an experienced finance professional who enjoys working in a fast-paced healthcare environment and influencing organisational strategy.

The successful candidate will collaborate closely with senior leaders to ensure the Trust’s financial planning processes support high-quality patient care, effective service delivery, and responsible use of public resources.

Development Opportunity

Although the position is advertised at Band 8b, applications are also welcomed from individuals who are close to completing a CCAB-recognised accounting qualification.

Candidates who meet most criteria but are still completing their professional qualification may be appointed initially at Band 8a, with a structured development plan designed to support progression to Band 8b once qualification requirements are met.

Visa and Right to Work

Applicants must have the legal right to work in the United Kingdom before appointment. Unfortunately, this role does not meet the eligibility requirements for sponsorship under the Skilled Worker visa route.

Skilled Worker visa overview

Key Responsibilities

The Head of Finance Strategy, Planning and Costing will play a critical role in shaping the Trust’s financial strategy and supporting senior leadership in delivering sustainable healthcare services.

Strategic Financial Planning

• Develop and maintain the Trust’s Medium-Term Financial Plan (MTFP).
• Ensure financial strategies align with national NHS policies and organisational priorities.

Financial Performance Management

• Lead the creation and implementation of Cash Releasing Efficiency Schemes (CRES) to support financial sustainability.
• Monitor financial performance and ensure effective management of budgets and resources.

Costing and Data Analysis

• Oversee the Trust’s costing processes to provide accurate financial information for decision-making.
• Support the development of financial models and forecasts to inform strategic planning.

Leadership and Team Management

• Provide leadership to the Trust’s costing team and support wider finance colleagues.
• Work collaboratively with directors and operational managers across the organisation.

Organisational Collaboration

• Engage with clinical and corporate teams to ensure financial plans support service delivery.
• Communicate complex financial information to both financial and non-financial stakeholders.

About the Organisation

Tees Esk and Wear Valleys NHS Foundation Trust provides mental health, learning disability, and autism services across a large region of northern England.

The Trust is committed to delivering compassionate care and continuously improving services through innovation, collaboration, and strong financial stewardship. Staff are encouraged to contribute to quality improvement initiatives and play an active role in shaping the future of healthcare services.

Essential Qualifications

Applicants must possess the following:

• Qualification as a CCAB-recognised accountant (or be in the final stage of qualification).
• Current registration with the relevant professional accounting body.
• Evidence of continuing professional development or a postgraduate qualification.
• Information about UK professional accountancy bodies

Essential Experience

Candidates should demonstrate:

• Significant post-qualification experience in senior financial management, ideally within the NHS.
• Experience working with senior executives and organisational leaders.
• Knowledge of NHS financial frameworks and regulatory requirements.
• Experience developing medium- and long-term financial strategies.
• Proven experience delivering complex organisational change programmes.
• Experience in financial planning, budget setting, and performance monitoring.

Knowledge Requirements

Applicants should have:

• Strong understanding of NHS finance policies and accounting standards.
• Knowledge of statutory financial reporting responsibilities within NHS organisations.
• Awareness of national healthcare policies and their impact on NHS Trusts.
• Information about NHS finance and governance 

Skills and Competencies

The successful candidate will demonstrate:

• Advanced financial analysis and spreadsheet skills
• Strong leadership and team-management abilities
• Excellent communication and presentation skills
• Strategic thinking and problem-solving capability
• Ability to manage competing priorities and deliver results
• Experience influencing stakeholders at senior organisational levels

DBS and Compliance Requirements

This position is subject to the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 (Exceptions Order) and may require a background check through the Disclosure and Barring Service.

More information about DBS checks is available 

Overseas Criminal Record Checks

Applicants who have lived overseas may be required to provide criminal record certificates from relevant countries.

Equality and Accessibility

The Trust is committed to ensuring fairness and inclusivity in recruitment and employment practices. Reasonable adjustments can be considered where required in accordance with the Equality Act 2010.

Guidance on the Equality Act is available

Application Process

Candidates interested in applying for this role should review the full job description and person specification before submitting their application.