Director of Finance and Business Support

West Highland Housing Association [WHHA] was formed in 2000 through the amalgamation of Lorn and the Isles and Oban Housing Associations. It is a Registered Social Landlord and a Scottish Charity.  It joined the Link Group in 2015 and it is a regulated subsidiary of Link. Link and WHHA have one of the largest developments in Scotland at Dunbeg, near Oban, with 300 new houses in Argyll recently completed and a new planned phase for 450 new properties. 

 Development is an important part of what we do, and we have over 1000 existing properties from in and around Oban up to Port Appin in the North, to Kilmelford in the South, and Taynuilt in the East. We have ongoing housing development on the islands of Mull, Colonsay and Islay, and there is existing housing on Jura, Iona, Lismore, Luing and Tiree that we want to invest in, maintain and be part of wider community development. 

 The organisation provides much-needed accommodation in an area that is experiencing economic growth, set against a declared Housing Emergency. Strategic agencies including Argyll and Bute Council and Highlands and Islands Enterprise have ambitious plans for continued sustainable growth, but these plans rely on good quality housing and WHHA plays a critical role in the delivery of this. However, WHHA is much more than a delivery organisation; it is a well-viewed and respected partner by strategic agencies and other community delivery organisations. 

This is a fantastically exciting time, and period of change for West Highland Housing Association, as we continually look to become a more digitally led and customer-centric organisation.  

 You will have the opportunity to lead key change initiatives, including the ongoing review and evaluation of our financial capability and operating systems, and as part of a small and close-knit leadership team, contribute strategically to the development of our services and the introduction of new, innovative value add services. You will have the ability to truly influence the organisation, developing both cultural and operating principles of the organisation, all with the intention to drive financial performance and value for customers, customer experience and delivering excellent services. 

 If you are looking to play a key role in the continued development, improvement and transformation of our business, as well as directly affect the lives of many of our tenants and enjoy living in one of Scotland’s most idyllic locations, this could be your dream role! 

You will be, or have the potential to be, an inspiring financial leader, with a track record of coaching, developing and improving multi-functional teams, with a strong degree of financial awareness and commercial acumen. 

 Whilst it is advantageous to understand social housing, we will consider candidates from a variety of third sector backgrounds who possess the right leadership and character attributes to operate in the social housing sector. You must be a housing enthusiast – understanding the difference housing makes for people. 

 You will have the ability to truly influence the organisation and develop both cultural and operating principles. All with the intention to develop and improve our financial stability and funding position.  In addition, you will have an understanding of the impact financial and treasury issues have for our organisation. 

 You will also possess most of the following; 

•  A professional accountancy qualification (e.g. ACCA, CA, CIMA) – this is essential 
• Experience of year-end account preparation and filing 
• Experience or exposure to managing other business functions including some of HR, ICT, Governance and Administration  
• Experience of reporting to Executive/Boards in a regulated environment 

 In return, we offer the successful candidate an excellent working environment, and good terms and conditions of employment, including a generous defined contribution pension scheme.  

This opportunity, based in Oban, can be performed on a hybrid basis, so the new Director will not need to relocate to Oban. However, there is a relocation package available if the new Director wishes to relocate. 

 If the role is undertaken on a hybrid basis, the successful candidate must possess exceptional communication and influencing skills, along with a proven track record of managing teams and stakeholders both virtually and in person. 

 WHHA are open to this role being undertaken on a part-time basis or with compressed hours by an exceptional candidate. 

 If you think you fit the bill and are interested, read more about this exciting opportunity in the recruitment pack.