Find a job 
Featured Companies 
Featured Universities 
For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead financial operations and ensure compliance for the Dunstone Education Trust.
- Company: Join a successful Trust recognized for educational excellence and strong financial performance.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary and the opportunity to make a real impact in education.
- Why this job: Be part of a mission-driven team that values kindness, respect, and educational excellence.
- Qualifications: Must be a qualified chartered accountant with strategic awareness and leadership skills.
- Other info: Application deadline is 27/01/2025; interviews on 03/02/2025.
The predicted salary is between 73580 - 80468 ÂŁ per year.
Chief Finance Officer
Salary Range: Grade 14, Scale Point 61 – 66 (ÂŁ73,580 – ÂŁ80,468)
Contract/ Hours: Full Time, Full Year (37 hours per week, 52 weeks per year)
Responsible to: Accounting Officer/Interim Chief Executive Officer
Closing Date: 27/01/2025 at Noon
Shortlisting Date: 28/01/2025
Interview Date: 03/02/2025
The Dunstone Education Trust is looking for a qualified chartered accountant with energy, drive, and strategic awareness to play a leading role in developing and implementing the Trust’s growth.
In 2023, our Ofsted inspection recognised us as “Good” in all areas; academic outcomes improved across a range of metrics; and in 2023 and 2024 we had a strong financial performance, strengthening our reserve position. We are a successful Trust with high ambitions.
The Chief Finance Officer will work closely with the Accounting Officer and Trustees. Day to day, you will lead on the non-academic operations and services of the Trust, ensuring that resources are deployed to meet the Strategic Plan in a financially and environmentally sustainable manner. Executing the responsibilities of a CFO, you will ensure robust financial planning, management, and reporting in line with the Department for Education’s Academy Trust handbook.
You will be responsible for all aspects of Trust finance and operations, ensuring compliance and overall efficiency of the Dunstone Education Trust.
If you would like to discuss any aspects of the post, please contact the Accounting Officer, Andrew Galbraith, with any queries.
Our Vision & Values
To promote a culture of educational excellence, kindness, and respect within our school and wider community. Where pupils and staff care about learning and each other, are committed to being their best, and together confidently challenge barriers to learning. This is underpinned by our values: We Care, We Challenge, We Commit and our Fundamental British Values.
How to make an application
To apply, complete the Application Form including the Supporting Statement section of the form to detail your suitability for the role, your motivation for making an application, and how your knowledge, experience, and training meet the person specification.
All completed application forms should be marked for the attention of:
Mr A Galbraith
Principal/Interim CEO
Fulwood Academy
Black Bull Lane
Preston
PR2 9YR
In line with KCSIE 2024 and safer recruitment practices, the school will conduct an online search for all shortlisted candidates. The online search is part of our safeguarding checks and will seek publicly available information on candidates’ suitability to work with children. Shortlisted candidates will be provided with further guidance and will be asked to clarify their online presence.
References will be obtained before interview at shortlisting stage and may be used in the interview process. If previous employment has included working with children, then at least one referee must be from this employment regardless of whether this is the current or most recent employment. Any gaps in employment must be detailed and an explanation provided in the relevant section.
We look forward to receiving your application.
Unfortunately, we are unable to offer feedback on individual applications that are not shortlisted for interview.
#J-18808-Ljbffr
Chief Finance Officer employer: Fulwood Academy
Contact Detail:
Fulwood Academy Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Chief Finance Officer
✨Tip Number 1
Make sure to familiarize yourself with the Dunstone Education Trust's strategic plan and financial performance. Understanding their goals and challenges will help you demonstrate how your experience aligns with their needs during the interview.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with current or former employees of the Dunstone Education Trust. They can provide valuable insights into the organizational culture and expectations, which can be beneficial for tailoring your approach.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your experience in financial planning and compliance with the Department for Education’s Academy Trust handbook. Highlight specific examples where you've successfully managed finances in an educational setting.
✨Tip Number 4
Since the role involves working closely with the Accounting Officer and Trustees, think about how you can showcase your collaborative skills. Be ready to share examples of how you've effectively worked with senior leadership teams in the past.
We think you need these skills to ace Chief Finance Officer
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Before applying, make sure you fully understand the responsibilities of a Chief Finance Officer. Familiarize yourself with the strategic goals of the Dunstone Education Trust and how your experience aligns with their vision.
Craft Your Supporting Statement: In the Supporting Statement section of the application form, clearly articulate your suitability for the role. Highlight your qualifications as a chartered accountant, relevant experience in financial management, and your motivation for applying.
Detail Your Experience: When detailing your knowledge, experience, and training, be specific about your previous roles, particularly those involving financial planning and compliance. Use examples that demonstrate your strategic awareness and ability to lead non-academic operations.
Prepare for Online Search: Be aware that an online search will be conducted as part of the recruitment process. Ensure your online presence reflects your professional image and is suitable for a role working with children.
How to prepare for a job interview at Fulwood Academy
✨Understand the Trust's Vision and Values
Before your interview, make sure you are familiar with the Dunstone Education Trust's vision and values. Be prepared to discuss how your personal values align with theirs, particularly around educational excellence, kindness, and respect.
✨Demonstrate Financial Acumen
As a Chief Finance Officer, showcasing your financial expertise is crucial. Prepare examples of your previous financial planning, management, and reporting experiences, especially those that align with the Department for Education’s Academy Trust handbook.
✨Showcase Strategic Awareness
The role requires strategic thinking and awareness. Be ready to discuss how you have contributed to the growth and sustainability of previous organizations, and how you plan to apply this in the context of the Dunstone Education Trust.
✨Prepare for Compliance Questions
Given the importance of compliance in this role, anticipate questions related to financial regulations and operational efficiency. Have specific examples ready that demonstrate your ability to ensure compliance and improve operational processes.
