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- Tasks: Lead financial operations and support strategic planning in a school environment.
- Company: Join a dedicated team at a secondary school in Wakefield.
- Benefits: Competitive pay, flexible temporary role, and support from a specialist agency.
- Other info: Opportunity for career growth in a supportive educational setting.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on financial stability and education while developing your leadership skills.
- Qualifications: 7+ years in finance, strong budget management, and leadership skills required.
Location: Wakefield, West Yorkshire
Salary: Grade 10 (dependent on experience)
Contract: Temporary
Reporting to: Business Operations Manager
About the Role
Academic Appointments Ltd are working in partnership with a secondary school in Wakefield to recruit an experienced and highly motivated Finance Manager & Deputy Business Manager on a temporary basis. This is a pivotal senior leadership role responsible for overseeing school financial operations while supporting wider business functions. You will play a key role in ensuring financial stability, compliance, budgeting accuracy, and strategic financial planning, working closely with senior leadership teams and key stakeholders.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead the management, monitoring, and reporting of school budgets
- Prepare annual budgets and deliver accurate financial forecasts
- Produce monthly management accounts and strategic financial reports
- Ensure compliance with financial regulations, audit requirements, and Trust policies
- Support and challenge budget holders to ensure effective financial management
- Oversee procurement, payroll, and financial systems
- Lead and manage finance and administrative staff
- Deputise for the Business Operations Manager, supporting HR, estates, and operational services
- Contribute to strategic planning, business cases, and value-for-money initiatives
What We’re Looking For
- Significant experience in a senior finance role (ideally 7+ years)
- Strong knowledge of budget management, financial controls, and forecasting
- Relevant qualification (Level 6 or above), with AAT Level 4 or equivalent desirable
- Excellent leadership and team management skills
- Strong analytical and problem-solving ability
- Experience in education or public sector finance (desirable)
- Ability to communicate complex financial information clearly to non-finance stakeholders
Why Join Us?
- Opportunity to work in a senior leadership capacity within a school environment
- Support from a specialist education recruitment agency
- Competitive rates and flexible temporary engagement
Safeguarding Statement
Academic Appointments Ltd is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. All roles are subject to enhanced DBS checks and satisfactory references.
How to Apply
If you are interested in this Finance Manager & Deputy Business Manager placement in Wakefield, please Apply Now or call (phone number removed) and speak to our Secondary team.
Business Operations Manager in Featherstone employer: Academic Appointments Ltd
Contact Detail:
Academic Appointments Ltd Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Business Operations Manager in Featherstone
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the education sector and let them know you're on the hunt for a Finance Manager role. You never know who might have the inside scoop on opportunities or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by brushing up on your financial knowledge and leadership skills. Be ready to discuss how you've managed budgets and led teams in the past. We want to see that you can communicate complex financial info clearly, so practice explaining your experience in simple terms.
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t just apply anywhere; focus on schools and organisations that align with your values. When you find a role that excites you, apply through our website for a smoother process. We’re here to help you land that perfect position!
✨Tip Number 4
Follow up after interviews! A quick thank-you email can go a long way in showing your enthusiasm for the role. It’s also a chance to reiterate why you’re the best fit for the Finance Manager position. Keep it friendly and professional!
We think you need these skills to ace Business Operations Manager in Featherstone
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the role of Finance Manager & Deputy Business Manager. Highlight your experience in budget management and financial controls, as these are key for us. Use specific examples that showcase your skills and achievements.
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 temporary role. Mention your leadership experience and how you can contribute to the school's financial stability and strategic planning.
Showcase Relevant Qualifications: Don’t forget to mention your qualifications! If you have AAT Level 4 or equivalent, make it stand out. We want to see how your educational background aligns with the requirements of the position.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother application process. It’s quick and easy, and ensures your application gets to the right people. Don’t miss out on this opportunity!
How to prepare for a job interview at Academic Appointments Ltd
✨Know Your Numbers
As a Finance Manager, you'll need to demonstrate your financial acumen. Brush up on key financial metrics and be ready to discuss how you've managed budgets in the past. Prepare examples of how you've ensured compliance and accuracy in financial reporting.
✨Showcase Leadership Skills
This role involves leading finance and administrative staff, so be prepared to talk about your leadership style. Think of specific instances where you've successfully managed a team or influenced stakeholders. Highlight your ability to communicate complex financial information clearly.
✨Understand the Education Sector
Familiarise yourself with the unique financial challenges faced by schools and the public sector. Research current trends in education finance and be ready to discuss how you can contribute to strategic planning and value-for-money initiatives within that context.
✨Prepare Questions
Interviews are a two-way street! Prepare thoughtful questions about the school's financial operations and their expectations for the role. This shows your genuine interest and helps you assess if the position aligns with your career goals.