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- Tasks: Lead finance operations, manage budgets, and oversee payroll and audits.
- Company: Cranleigh School is a supportive community focused on financial sustainability and success.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary of £50,000-£55,000 and attractive benefits in a full-time role.
- Why this job: Join a proactive team and make a real impact on the school's financial health.
- Qualifications: Qualified accountant (ACCA/CIMA) or QBE with team management experience required.
- Other info: This is an on-site role with a commitment to diversity and safeguarding.
The predicted salary is between 43000 - 77000 £ per year.
Location: Cranleigh School
Contract: Full-time, Permanent, Full year
We’re looking for an experienced and proactive Finance Manager to lead our finance function and support the strategic financial management of our school. Working closely with the Director of Finance, you’ll oversee day-to-day finance operations, including budgeting, reporting, payroll, ledgers, and audits. You'll also manage and develop a small finance team, ensuring high standards and continuous improvement across all financial systems and processes.
Key Responsibilities:
- Prepare management accounts and financial reports
- Support budgeting, forecasting, and cash flow
- Oversee billing, purchase/sales ledgers, payroll, and pensions
- Manage VAT returns, fixed assets, and PSA submissions
- Liaise with auditors and prepare audit files
- Ensure accurate financial handling of donations, utilities, and advance fees
- Lead and support the finance team, driving efficiency and compliance
About You:
- Qualified accountant (ACCA/CIMA) or QBE with team management experience
- Strong financial and management accounting skills
- Proficient in Excel and financial systems
- Highly organised, detail-focused, and proactive
- Strong communicator with a hands-on approach
Join us and play a key role in supporting our school’s financial sustainability and success. This is an on-site role and the working hours are 40 hours per week, Monday to Friday throughout the whole year. We offer a supportive community environment, a salary of c£50,000-£55,000 per annum (depending on experience) and a range of attractive benefits.
For further details about the role and to apply, please visit our website. Candidates are requested to submit a brief letter of application, together with the online application and supported by a full CV as soon as possible and no later than 9:00 am on Tuesday 15th July 2025. Applications are considered as they are received and therefore the vacancy may close sooner than advertised.
Cranleigh School recognises the positive value of diversity, promotes equality and challenges discrimination. We welcome and encourage job applications from people of all backgrounds. All applicants must have the right to work in the UK. The School is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. The post holder will be subject to a DBS check.
Finance Manager employer: Cranleigh School
Contact Detail:
Cranleigh School Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Finance Manager
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with Cranleigh School's financial operations and values. Understanding their specific financial challenges and goals will help you tailor your discussions during the interview, showcasing how your experience aligns with their needs.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with current or former employees of Cranleigh School, especially those in finance roles. They can provide valuable insights into the company culture and expectations, which can be beneficial when preparing for your interview.
✨Tip Number 3
Brush up on your knowledge of relevant financial regulations and best practices, particularly those related to educational institutions. Being well-versed in these areas will demonstrate your commitment to compliance and excellence in financial management.
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare to discuss your leadership style and how you've successfully managed finance teams in the past. Highlighting your ability to drive efficiency and foster a collaborative environment will resonate well with the hiring team.
We think you need these skills to ace Finance Manager
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Cover Letter: Craft a cover letter that specifically addresses the key responsibilities and qualifications mentioned in the job description. Highlight your experience in financial management, team leadership, and any relevant qualifications like ACCA or CIMA.
Highlight Relevant Experience: In your CV, ensure you emphasise your previous roles related to finance management. Include specific examples of budgeting, reporting, and team management to demonstrate your capability for the role.
Showcase Your Skills: Make sure to mention your proficiency in Excel and any financial systems you have used. Provide examples of how you've used these skills to improve financial processes or reporting in past positions.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting, carefully proofread your cover letter and CV for any errors or inconsistencies. A well-presented application reflects your attention to detail, which is crucial for a Finance Manager role.
How to prepare for a job interview at Cranleigh School
✨Showcase Your Financial Expertise
As a Finance Manager, you'll need to demonstrate your strong financial and management accounting skills. Be prepared to discuss your experience with budgeting, forecasting, and cash flow management in detail, as well as any specific financial systems you've used.
✨Highlight Team Management Experience
Since the role involves managing a small finance team, it's crucial to share examples of your leadership style and how you've successfully developed team members in the past. Discuss any strategies you've implemented to drive efficiency and compliance within your team.
✨Prepare for Technical Questions
Expect questions related to VAT returns, payroll processes, and audit preparation. Brush up on these topics and be ready to explain your approach to handling complex financial situations, as this will showcase your proactive nature and problem-solving skills.
✨Communicate Clearly and Confidently
Strong communication is key in this role. Practice articulating your thoughts clearly and confidently, especially when discussing financial reports or liaising with auditors. This will help convey your hands-on approach and ensure you make a positive impression.
