At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead financial strategy and governance for a growing Multi-Academy Trust.
- Company: A reputable Multi-Academy Trust dedicated to high-quality education.
- Benefits: Salary up to £73,000, excellent pension, generous holidays, and hybrid working.
- Other info: Join a supportive culture and shape the future of a dynamic organisation.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on the future of education through strategic financial leadership.
- Qualifications: Qualified Accountant with senior finance leadership experience, preferably in education.
The predicted salary is between 73000 - 73000 £ per year.
AtkinsClarke are delighted to be supporting the search for a Chief Financial Officer on behalf of a large and ambitious Multi-Academy Trust with a strong reputation for delivering high-quality education across the region. This is a pivotal executive appointment, offering the opportunity to work alongside an experienced CEO and Board to shape the financial strategy, governance and long-term sustainability of a growing organisation. The successful candidate will combine strong technical expertise with strategic leadership, helping to ensure resources are maximised to support outstanding educational outcomes.
Our client is a well-established and expanding Multi-Academy Trust responsible for educating thousands of pupils across multiple schools. With growth firmly on the agenda, the Trust continues to invest in its people, infrastructure and financial capability. This role will play a critical part in supporting future expansion, ensuring robust financial governance and providing strategic advice to senior leadership and Trustees.
Reporting directly to the Chief Executive Officer, the Chief Financial Officer will lead the finance function while acting as a trusted strategic advisor across the Trust. This is a broad leadership role combining financial strategy, operational finance, compliance, governance and team leadership.
- Leading the Trust's financial strategy and long-term planning
- Partnering with the CEO, Executive Team and Trustees on strategic decisions
- Leading annual budgeting, forecasting and financial planning processes
- Producing high-quality management information and financial reporting
- Ensuring compliance with Academy Trust financial regulations and statutory requirements
- Managing external audit and internal assurance programmes
- Leading procurement, treasury, cashflow and financial risk management
- Supporting school leaders with financial planning and performance
- Leading and developing the central finance team
- Supporting future Trust growth, school integrations and financial due diligence
- Driving continuous improvement across finance systems, controls and reporting
This is a genuine opportunity to influence the future direction of a growing education organisation.
We are seeking an experienced finance leader who is passionate about supporting education through strong financial leadership. You will ideally demonstrate:
- Qualified Accountant (ACA, ACCA, CIMA or equivalent)
- Significant senior finance leadership experience
- Previous experience within the education sector is essential
- Multi-Academy Trust experience would be highly advantageous
- Strong knowledge of academy financial regulations and governance
- Experience presenting to Boards and senior stakeholders
- Excellent leadership and people development skills
- Commercial awareness alongside strong technical capability
- The ability to balance strategic thinking with operational delivery
This is an outstanding opportunity to join a purpose-led organisation where your work will have a genuine long-term impact across education.
Salary up to £73,000
Excellent pension scheme
Generous holiday entitlement
Hybrid working
Executive leadership exposure
Opportunity to shape the future of a growing organisation
Supportive and values-driven culture
To apply for this position, please click on the apply now button and your CV will be sent directly to the responsible recruiter. We will respond to successful applicants within 7 days, however, please feel free to get in touch if you would like any further information about your application. At AtkinsClarke, we embrace inclusivity and welcome applicants of all backgrounds, experiences, and abilities.
Chief Financial Officer in Solihull employer: Atkins Clarke
Join a dynamic Multi-Academy Trust in the West Midlands, where your role as Chief Financial Officer will not only shape financial strategy but also contribute to the educational success of thousands of pupils. With a strong commitment to employee development, a supportive culture, and the flexibility of hybrid working, this is an exceptional opportunity to make a meaningful impact while enjoying a competitive salary and excellent benefits.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Chief Financial Officer in Solihull
✨Tap into Campus Networks
If you're still in uni, don’t forget to engage with your campus's career services and attend finance-related events. Banks often do presentations and recruitment drives on campus, so put yourself out there and make use of these opportunities to show off your passion for the field.
✨Get Certified
Consider pursuing relevant certifications like the CFA or ACCA while you’re job hunting. They not only beef up your CV but also connect you with professional bodies which can lead to networking opportunities and even job openings in banking and financial services.
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Join finance-focused groups on platforms like LinkedIn and engage in discussions. This can really help you stand out from the crowd, allowing potential employers to see your knowledge and interest in industry trends. Plus, you might stumble upon job postings shared exclusively within the group.
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We think you need these skills to ace Chief Financial Officer in Solihull
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Numbers!:In the banking and financial services world, quantifiable achievements are key. Make sure your CV highlights your grades in relevant subjects, any financial certifications you hold, and specific projects where you've delivered measurable results. Employers love to see how your skills translate into real-world success.
Tailor Your Cover Letter to the Role:When applying for a full-time position, your cover letter should make a direct connection between your experience and the job description. Don't just state your enthusiasm for finance—dive into how your background in banking or financial analysis sets you apart. Let your passion shine through while being specific about what you can bring to Atkins Clarke.
Include Relevant Financial Software Experience:If you've worked with financial modelling tools or software like Excel, SAP, or specific analytical tools during your studies or internships, bring that up! Highlighting your proficiency can really make your application pop and show you're ready to hit the ground running in a full-time role.
Research and Reflect:Before hitting that 'apply' button on Atkins Clarke's website, do a little digging. Look up their recent projects, values, and culture. Reflecting their ethos in your application can make a huge difference and show you’re genuinely interested in being part of the team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Atkins Clarke
✨Brush Up on Financial Analysis Skills
Make sure you're well-versed in financial concepts and analytical techniques relevant to banking and financial services. Get comfortable with tools like Excel for modelling or financial forecasting, as technical questions in this area are common during interviews with Atkins Clarke.
✨Prepare for Case Studies
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✨Network with Industry Professionals
Before your interview, reach out to current or former Atkins Clarke employees on platforms like LinkedIn. They'll offer unique insights into the company's culture and the interview process, which can give us a delightful edge in showcasing a good fit for the team.
