At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead financial strategy and governance for a Multi-Academy Trust during a crucial period.
- Company: Respected Multi-Academy Trust committed to outstanding educational outcomes.
- Benefits: Up to £500 per day, hybrid working, and immediate start available.
- Other info: 3-6 month contract with excellent career exposure and growth opportunities.
- Why this job: Make an immediate strategic impact in a visible executive leadership role.
- Qualifications: Qualified Accountant with experience in education finance and strong leadership skills.
AtkinsClarke are supporting a large and established Multi-Academy Trust with the appointment of an Interim Chief Financial Officer to provide executive financial leadership during an important period for the organisation. Working closely with the CEO, Executive Team and Trustees, this role requires an experienced education finance professional who can quickly establish credibility, provide strategic guidance and ensure robust financial governance across a complex education environment. This is a hands‑on executive assignment requiring someone who can make an immediate impact.
Our client is a respected and growing Multi-Academy Trust with responsibility for multiple schools and a strong commitment to delivering outstanding educational outcomes. The finance function sits at the heart of the organisation's strategic decision‑making, supporting operational leaders while ensuring compliance, financial sustainability and effective governance across the Trust.
As Interim Chief Financial Officer, you will provide strategic financial leadership while ensuring the Trust continues to operate with strong financial control and governance. You will work across both strategic and operational priorities, supporting senior leaders while maintaining excellent financial management throughout the contract.
Responsibilities will include:
- Leading the Trust's finance function
- Advising the CEO, Executive Team and Trustees on financial strategy
- Overseeing budgeting, forecasting and financial planning
- Producing high-quality management and statutory reporting
- Managing audit processes and regulatory compliance
- Supporting procurement, treasury and cash management
- Providing financial oversight across multiple schools
- Leading and supporting the finance team
- Reviewing financial controls, processes and governance
- Supporting ongoing strategic projects and organisational priorities
This role requires someone capable of quickly assessing priorities and delivering immediate value.
We are looking for an experienced interim finance executive with a proven background within the education sector. You will ideally have:
- Qualified Accountant status (ACA, ACCA, CIMA or equivalent)
- Previous experience as CFO, Director of Finance or equivalent within education
- Essential experience working within a Multi‑Academy Trust or similar education organisation
- Strong understanding of academy funding, compliance and governance
- Experience working with Boards and Trustees
- Excellent leadership and stakeholder management skills
- The ability to quickly build relationships and hit the ground running
- Strong technical and strategic finance capability
This is an excellent opportunity to join a highly respected education organisation in a visible executive leadership role.
Up to £500 per day (Inside IR35)
Hybrid working
3‑6 month contract
Immediate start available
Executive‑level exposure
Opportunity to make an immediate strategic impact
At AtkinsClarke, we embrace inclusivity and welcome applicants of all backgrounds, experiences, and abilities.
