At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead financial and operational management to drive strategic change in our innovative trust.
- Company: Join a forward-thinking trust dedicated to transforming lives through education.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, travel opportunities, and the chance to make a real impact.
- Other info: Dynamic role with opportunities for professional growth and collaboration across multiple sites.
- Why this job: Shape the future of education while ensuring optimal resource allocation for students.
- Qualifications: Qualified accountant with a passion for improving outcomes for children.
The predicted salary is between 75000 - 100000 £ per year.
This is an exciting opportunity to play a pivotal role in our ambitious and innovative trust. From September 2026, we wish to appoint an experienced candidate to lead the financial and operational management of the Trust on a full-time basis. The CFO will play a critical role in providing clear and balanced expert advice to the CEO, the Executive Leadership Team and the Board of Trustees.
As a member of the Executive Leadership Team, the CFO will report to the CEO. Working closely alongside her and the Board of Trustees, the new post holder will have the opportunity to shape, support and lead strategic change, as well as ensuring optimal day to day operational management of the Trust.
Aspire is geographically spread across Buckinghamshire, and the CFO will travel regularly to our different sites. The Finance Team is based in Aylesbury and the central Trust team is largely based in High Wycombe. We are also currently supporting other schools in Gloucestershire and Outer London.
The CFO will oversee the areas of Finance, Operations, Human Resources and Information Technology, assisted by an experienced team of managers who lead each area.
You must be a qualified accountant who believes that financial management is a tool to change lives. You will demonstrate understanding that every line in a budget represents an opportunity for a child. You will be a strategic orchestrator who can navigate the complexities of trust finances while ensuring that resources are deployed fairly and strategically to support our students.
Whether you have developed your career in education or another field, you will have a deep moral purpose and a passion for securing the best possible outcomes for children and young people.
Chief Finance Officer (with operational responsibility) employer: Aspire Schools
Aspire is an exceptional employer that champions a culture of innovation and collaboration, making it an ideal place for the Chief Finance Officer to thrive. With a strong commitment to employee growth, the Trust offers opportunities for professional development while fostering a supportive environment that values every team member's contribution to transforming lives through education. Located across Buckinghamshire, the role provides a unique chance to make a meaningful impact in various communities, ensuring that financial management directly supports the educational aspirations of children and young people.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Chief Finance Officer (with operational responsibility)
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the education sector and let them know you're on the lookout for a CFO 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 researching the Trust's values and recent initiatives. Show us that you’re not just a numbers person but someone who genuinely cares about making a difference in children's lives. Tailor your responses to reflect how your experience aligns with their mission.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your pitch! Be ready to explain how your financial expertise can drive strategic change within the Trust. We want to hear how you can turn budgets into opportunities for students, so make it personal and impactful.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows us you’re serious about joining our team and making a real impact in the education sector.
We think you need these skills to ace Chief Finance Officer (with operational responsibility)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV reflects the skills and experiences that align with the CFO role. Highlight your financial management expertise and any relevant operational experience, as this will show us you understand what we're looking for.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to express your passion for education and how your background can help us achieve our mission. Be sure to mention specific examples of how you've made a difference in previous roles.
Showcase Your Strategic Thinking:In your application, demonstrate your ability to think strategically about finances and operations. We want to see how you can navigate complexities and make decisions that benefit students and the Trust as a whole.
Apply Through Our Website:Don't forget to submit your application through our website! This ensures we receive all your details correctly and helps us keep track of your application. Plus, it’s super easy!
How to prepare for a job interview at Aspire Schools
✨Know Your Numbers
As a CFO, you'll need to demonstrate your financial acumen. Brush up on key financial metrics and be ready to discuss how you've used them to drive strategic decisions in the past. This shows you understand that every line in a budget represents an opportunity for a child.
✨Understand the Trust's Mission
Familiarise yourself with the Trust's goals and values. Be prepared to articulate how your vision aligns with their mission of securing the best outcomes for children and young people. This will show your deep moral purpose and commitment to the role.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Style
As part of the Executive Leadership Team, your ability to lead and inspire is crucial. Think about examples from your past where you've successfully led teams through change or challenges. Be ready to discuss your approach to collaboration and operational management.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect questions that assess your problem-solving skills and strategic thinking. Prepare scenarios related to financial management and operational challenges in an educational context. This will help you demonstrate your ability to navigate complexities and deploy resources effectively.
