College Bursar named Financial Director of the Year

David Jenkinson from St Vincent College in Gosport, Hampshire, has been named ‘Public Sector Financial Director of the Year’ at the Director of Finance Awards.

The annual Director of Finance Awards recognises the achievements of finance leaders across the UK and identifies pioneers who are constantly striving for innovation and opportunities.

He was awarded ‘Public Sector Finance Director of the Year’ at the Millennium Gloucester Hotel in Kensington, London, for his strategic decision-making, leadership, best practice and finding successful solutions for positive results and financial impact at St Vincent College.

Improved finances over the last few years have allowed the College, amongst other things, to invest in new IT, refurbish learning and teaching spaces throughout the college, and rejuvenate the site’s Jervis Gallery, which has been brought back to life as a venue for events and weddings; the first of which is taking place this summer.

Award judges said: “David has proved an outstanding Financial Director and, in an ever decreasing economic environment, has managed to gain an "Outstanding" from Ofsted for his management of limited funding. To say this is unusual would be an understatement. His prudence coupled with a real understanding of the challenges facing teachers has led to him being very valued and respected at St Vincent College. This nomination is the least we can do to recognise his skill and his empathy with the many layers of finance that he manages so well.”