At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead financial and operational management to drive strategic change in education.
- Company: Innovative educational trust focused on transforming lives through effective financial management.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, opportunity for impactful work, and travel across beautiful Buckinghamshire.
- Other info: Join a dedicated team committed to making a difference in children's lives.
- Why this job: Shape the future of education while ensuring every budget line supports student success.
- Qualifications: Qualified accountant with a passion for education and strategic financial management.
The predicted salary is between 80000 - 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.
Education CFO & Strategic Operations Leader employer: Aspire Schools
Aspire is an exceptional employer that champions innovation and strategic leadership in the education sector. With a strong commitment to employee development, we offer a collaborative work culture where your expertise will directly impact the lives of children and young people across Buckinghamshire and beyond. Join us in Aylesbury or High Wycombe, where you will have the unique opportunity to shape financial strategies that drive meaningful change within our Trust.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Education CFO & Strategic Operations Leader
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the education sector, especially those who are already in leadership roles. A friendly chat can lead to valuable insights and even job leads.
✨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.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your pitch! Be ready to explain how your experience aligns with the role of CFO. Highlight your strategic thinking and how you've used financial management to drive positive change.
✨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 take the initiative to connect directly with us.
We think you need these skills to ace Education CFO & Strategic Operations Leader
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV reflects the skills and experiences that align with the role of CFO. Highlight your financial management expertise and any relevant leadership experience in education or similar sectors.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to express your passion for education and how you can contribute to the Trust's mission. Be sure to mention specific examples of how you've used financial management to drive positive change.
Showcase Your Strategic Thinking:In both your CV and cover letter, demonstrate your ability to think strategically. Discuss how you've navigated complex financial situations in the past and how you plan to support the Trust's goals through effective resource management.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity to make a difference in children's lives!
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 relevant to the education sector and be ready to discuss how you've used financial management as a tool for positive change in previous roles.
✨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 improving outcomes for children and young people. This shows that you’re not just about numbers but also about making a difference.
✨Showcase Your Strategic Thinking
Prepare examples of how you've led strategic change in past positions. Think about challenges you've faced and how you navigated them. This will highlight your ability to think critically and act decisively, which is crucial for this role.
✨Be Ready to Discuss Team Leadership
Since you'll be overseeing various teams, come equipped with examples of how you've successfully managed and motivated teams in the past. Highlight your collaborative approach and how you empower others to achieve their best.
