At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead financial reporting and analysis for the Education division, driving insights and strategic decisions.
- Company: Dynamic education-focused organisation with a commitment to innovation and collaboration.
- Benefits: Hybrid working model, competitive salary, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Join a diverse team that values inclusion and fosters personal and professional development.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in education finance while leveraging cutting-edge technologies.
- Qualifications: Qualified accountant with strong finance experience and excellent analytical skills.
The predicted salary is between 80000 - 100000 £ per year.
The Director of Management Reporting, Planning & Analysis (MRPA) leads all financial reporting, planning, forecasting, and performance analysis activities across the Education division. You will improve financial insight, strengthen reporting quality, and support strategic and commercial decision‑making at divisional and regional levels. You will also act as a key partner to SN Group Finance and senior business leaders within the Education division.
Role Responsibilities
- Manage a central team of MRPA (Senior-)Managers and Analysts to support above activities
- Lead all management reporting, driving continuous improvement in quality, timeliness and consistency
- Partner closely with regional finance teams to develop a deep understanding of local markets and regularly review regional balance sheets
- Develop and enhance metrics and KPIs to monitor business performance
- Lead monthly regional Business Review Meetings, delivering clear insight and analysis
- Prepare performance commentary to support quarterly external reporting
- Manage all planning and forecasting cycles for the Education division
- Prepare divisional budget and forecast presentations for senior leadership
- Own the divisional mid‑term planning model used to support company strategy cycle
- Apply a strategic planning approach to identify opportunities to improve cost efficiency, operational performance, and growth
- Work closely with and deputise for the VP Finance Education
- Provide financial and commercial support to divisional Managing Directors on business cases, new initiatives and new business streams
- Regularly review regional balance sheets alongside regional FDs, ensuring WC outlook is updated and accurate
- Lead risk assessment activities across the Education division, working with cross‑functional teams to identify key risks and areas of exposure
- Develop and implement effective risk‑mitigation actions
- Oversee government business reporting
- Explore and leverage emerging technologies, including AI and advanced analytics, to improve forecasting accuracy, scenario planning, and decision support
Experience, Skills & Qualifications
Essential
- Qualified accountant (ACA/ACMA/ACCA/CIMA or equivalent) with proven post-qualification finance experience in a complex international organisation
- Operational finance experience gained through close support of a business unit, alongside experience working in or with a Group planning function
- Experienced in using and developing financial planning systems (e.g., Hyperion, Anaplan) with a genuine interest in systems improvement
- Skilled in producing high-quality management and Board-level presentations
- Commercially focused finance leader with a strong understanding of business economics and commercial strategy
- Excellent financial analysis and data interpretation skills, including evaluation of new opportunities and assessment of operational performance
- Self-starter with a positive attitude, strong motivation, and a collaborative, confident and highly diligent in approach
- Able to operate both strategically and hands-on, with the ability to step into detail when required
- Strong relationship-builder and communicator who adapts communication style to different audiences and situations
- Proven track record of improving processes, adding value, and influencing stakeholders
- Able to manage complex issues and multiple projects at the same time, working to tight deadlines
- Strong technical accounting knowledge, with a commitment to good controls, structured processes, training, and best-practice finance standards
- Excellent PowerPoint skills, with the ability to present financial information clearly
Desirable
- Experience from the media sector (e.g., publishing, video, gaming or music) would be a bonus
- Experience in M&A processes is an advantage
Skills Associated with this Job Profile
- Balances
- Stakeholder
- Business Insights
- Capital Planning
- Communicates Effectively
- Decision Quality
- Financial/Tax/Capital Market Regulations
- Financial Acumen
- Financial Modelling
- Strategic Mindset
We celebrate diversity and inclusion and strive to create an environment where people and ideas can flourish.
Director of Management Reporting Planning & Analysis - Education employer: 1260 Macmillan Education Limited
As a leading employer in the education sector, we offer a dynamic and inclusive work environment in London, where innovation and collaboration thrive. Our hybrid working model promotes work-life balance, while our commitment to employee development ensures that you will have ample opportunities for growth and advancement. Join us to be part of a team that values your contributions and supports your professional journey in a meaningful and rewarding way.
Contact Details:
1260 Macmillan Education Limited Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Director of Management Reporting Planning & Analysis - Education
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the finance and education sectors. Attend industry events or webinars, and don’t be shy about introducing yourself. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the company and its financial strategies. Understand their recent performance and be ready to discuss how your skills can enhance their reporting and analysis processes. Tailor your responses to show you’re the perfect fit for their needs.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your presentation skills! As a Director of Management Reporting, you’ll need to communicate complex financial data clearly. Create mock presentations based on potential scenarios you might face in the role, and get feedback from friends or mentors.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive and engaged with our platform. Let’s get you that dream job in education finance!
We think you need these skills to ace Director of Management Reporting Planning & Analysis - Education
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the role of Director of Management Reporting, Planning & Analysis. Highlight your relevant experience in financial reporting and analysis, and don’t forget to showcase your skills in managing teams and improving processes.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you’re the perfect fit for this role. Mention specific experiences that align with the job description and show us your passion for the education sector.
Showcase Your Achievements:When detailing your past roles, focus on your achievements rather than just responsibilities. Use metrics and examples to demonstrate how you’ve improved financial insight or driven performance analysis in previous positions.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother application process. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you don’t miss any important updates from us!
How to prepare for a job interview at 1260 Macmillan Education Limited
✨Know Your Numbers
As a Director of Management Reporting, you'll need to demonstrate your financial acumen. Brush up on key metrics and KPIs relevant to the education sector. Be ready to discuss how you've used data to drive decision-making in previous roles.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
You'll be managing a team, so it's crucial to highlight your leadership experience. Prepare examples of how you've led teams to improve reporting quality or drive performance analysis. Think about specific challenges you faced and how you overcame them.
✨Understand the Business Landscape
Familiarise yourself with the current trends in the education sector, especially regarding financial planning and analysis. Be prepared to discuss how emerging technologies like AI can enhance forecasting accuracy and decision support in this field.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect questions that assess your strategic mindset and problem-solving abilities. Practice articulating your thought process when faced with complex issues or tight deadlines. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your responses effectively.
