Hibernia Colleges Group (HCG) is a premier provider of flexible, professionally accredited, and career-focused higher education. As a key division of the Folens Group, HCG is expanding its footprint across teaching, psychology, accountancy, and healthcare, driven by innovation, learner accessibility, and a commitment to sustainability.
The group is now seeking a Chief Financial Officer to lead the financial stewardship, operational effectiveness, and long-term sustainability of the Group. Based in Dublin city centre with flexible working options, the CFO will act as a trusted advisor to the CEO, Board, and Executive Team.
This is a rare opportunity to shape the financial and commercial strategy of a growing, future-focused education group - driving both organic growth and partnership-led expansion while influencing the long-term direction of the organisation.
Responsibilities
Reporting directly to the Chief Executive of HCG, the CFO will provide comprehensive strategic and operational leadership across all financial activities of the Group and its subsidiaries.
This is a high-impact leadership role requiring the successful candidate to bridge rigorous financial governance with ambitious commercial growth objectives. The CFO will also serve as Company Secretary for HCG entities and act as a key representative on relevant industry and professional bodies.
Financial Stewardship & Governance: Lead commercial financial management, reporting, and planning. Ensure strict compliance and align financial frameworks with long-term strategic objectives.
Team Leadership: Lead and develop a team of 8-10 finance professionals, fostering a high-performance culture and ensuring the seamless delivery of core operations.
External Relationship Management: Manage critical relationships with auditors, tax advisers, and banking partners to ensure fiscal health and transparency.
Strategic Growth Alignment: Collaborate closely with the Folens Group CFO to drive group-wide alignment, liquidity management, and acquisition financing.
Market Insight: Quickly synthesise the dynamics of the Irish educational market to identify and advise on emerging growth opportunities.
The role is full-time, Dublin-based, and highly visible, offering influence across the senior executive team, the group leadership and the board.
Experience
The successful candidate must be a high-calibre finance leader who balances technical mastery with a growth mindset. This role transcends traditional accounting; it requires a strategic partner capable of influencing the Board and driving value across a complex, multi-entity educational group.
10+ years' experience at CFO or Finance Director level within a multi-entity or group structure, including advising CEOs and Boards.
Demonstrated success in driving commercial growth through rigorous business cases, financial modelling and disciplined capital allocation.
Deep expertise in treasury, tax, audit and risk management within regulated environments.
Proven track record of optimising budgeting, cashflow management and procurement to deliver measurable value for money.
Experience leading digital transformation initiatives and modernising finance functions.
A collaborative, energetic leadership style with a proven ability to build and inspire high-performing teams.
What's on Offer
An executive opportunity to shape strategy and drive growth within a dynamic, future-focused education sector.
The ability to lead meaningful change, improve efficiencies, and make a genuine impact on the organisation's commercial performance.
Exposure to a highly experienced corporate development team, including involvement in future commercial partnerships and strategic transactions.
An agile, collaborative, and growth-oriented culture, working alongside passionate and purpose-driven professionals.
A competitive remuneration package aligned with the scope and impact of the role.
To explore this opportunity in confidence, please apply now for a confidential discussion.
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