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- Tasks: Lead a finance team, manage accounts, and ensure compliance in a dynamic education environment.
- Company: Join a values-driven Multi Academy Trust making a difference in education.
- Benefits: Enjoy hybrid working, flexible hours, and a supportive team culture.
- Why this job: Be part of a key leadership role that drives financial integrity and innovation.
- Qualifications: Qualified accountant with leadership experience in finance, preferably in education or public sector.
- Other info: This is a 1-year Fixed Term Contract based in Bristol.
The predicted salary is between 43200 - 72000 £ per year.
Reed Finance are working with a large Multi Academy Trust recruiting for a Financial Controller to join them on a 1-year Fixed Term Contract.
Hybrid/ Flexible working - Based in Bristol (2 days' on-site)
Lovely team / culture - Values-driven organisation
This is a key leadership role, responsible for ensuring financial integrity, compliance, and continuous improvement in a dynamic multi-academy environment.
Key Responsibilities:- Lead and manage a team of four direct reports, including the Finance Operations Lead, Treasury Team, and Financial Accountant.
- Oversee the day-to-day operations of the finance department, ensuring high standards of accuracy and efficiency.
- Take full responsibility for the production of annual statutory accounts, from trial balance through to audit.
- Oversee the preparation of monthly management accounts, ensuring accuracy and compliance with reporting standards.
- Ensure robust ledger management, including purchase and sales ledgers, aged debtors/creditors, and fixed asset registers.
- Lead on the external audit process, building strong relationships with auditors and ensuring timely delivery of audit requirements.
- Ensure compliance with financial regulations, including the Academy Trust Handbook and Academies Accounts Direction.
- Support the Finance Director in delivering the Trust’s financial strategy and vision.
- Drive a culture of continuous improvement, innovation, and collaboration within the finance team.
- Oversee treasury management, including cash flow monitoring, investment recommendations, and banking relationships.
- Qualified accountant (ACA, ACCA, CIMA or equivalent).
- Proven leadership experience in a finance function, ideally within the education or public sector.
- Strong technical knowledge of financial reporting, statutory accounts, and audit processes.
- Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills.
- A proactive, solutions-focused mindset with a commitment to continuous improvement.
Contact Charlotte Hasler at Reed Finance for further information.
Contact Detail:
Reed Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Financial Controller 1 year FTC
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the specific financial regulations and compliance standards relevant to the education sector, particularly the Academy Trust Handbook. This knowledge will not only help you in interviews but also demonstrate your commitment to the role.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in the education finance sector, especially those who have experience in multi-academy trusts. Engaging with them can provide insights into the role and may even lead to referrals or recommendations.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your leadership style and experiences managing finance teams. Be ready to share examples of how you've driven continuous improvement and innovation in previous roles, as this aligns closely with the job's requirements.
✨Tip Number 4
Research the specific multi-academy trust you'll be applying to. Understanding their values, culture, and financial challenges will allow you to tailor your discussions and show that you're genuinely interested in contributing to their mission.
We think you need these skills to ace Financial Controller 1 year FTC
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience in financial management and leadership. Emphasise your qualifications, such as ACA, ACCA, or CIMA, and any specific achievements in previous roles that align with the responsibilities of a Financial Controller.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your understanding of the role and the organisation's values. Mention your experience in overseeing financial operations and your commitment to compliance and continuous improvement, which are key aspects of this position.
Highlight Leadership Experience: In both your CV and cover letter, focus on your leadership skills. Provide examples of how you've successfully managed teams, improved processes, or driven financial strategies in previous roles, particularly in the education or public sector.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting, carefully proofread your application for any spelling or grammatical errors. A polished application reflects your attention to detail, which is crucial for a Financial Controller role.
How to prepare for a job interview at Reed
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
As a Financial Controller, you'll be leading a team. Be prepared to discuss your leadership style and provide examples of how you've successfully managed teams in the past. Highlight any experience you have in fostering a collaborative environment.
✨Demonstrate Technical Knowledge
Make sure you brush up on your technical knowledge regarding financial reporting, statutory accounts, and audit processes. Be ready to answer questions that test your understanding of these areas, as they are crucial for the role.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect scenario-based questions that assess your problem-solving skills and ability to handle challenges in a finance function. Think of specific situations where you had to implement improvements or resolve issues, especially in a multi-academy context.
✨Understand the Organisation's Values
Since this is a values-driven organisation, take some time to research their mission and values. Be prepared to discuss how your personal values align with theirs and how you can contribute to their culture of continuous improvement and collaboration.
