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.
Interim Chief Financial Officer
Hybrid Working | West Midlands | Multi-Academy Trust
3-6 Month Contract | Up To £500 Per Day (Inside IR35)
OVERVIEW
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.
COMPANY
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.
OPPORTUNITY
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.
PERSON
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
OFFER
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.
NEXT STEPS
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. By applying you will be registered as a candidate with Atkins Clarke Ltd. Our Privacy Policy is available on request and explains how we will use your data.
Chief Financial Officer - Interim in Solihull employer: Atkins Clarke
AtkinsClarke is an exceptional employer, offering a unique opportunity to lead financial strategy within a respected Multi-Academy Trust in the West Midlands. With a strong commitment to educational excellence, the organisation fosters a collaborative work culture that values inclusivity and professional growth, allowing you to make a significant impact while enjoying the flexibility of hybrid working arrangements. This interim role not only provides competitive compensation but also positions you at the forefront of strategic decision-making in a dynamic educational environment.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Chief Financial Officer - Interim in Solihull
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We think you need these skills to ace Chief Financial Officer - Interim in Solihull
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Academic Achievements:In banking and financial services, your academic record can really make you stand out. List relevant grades, certifications, or coursework on your CV, especially if you've taken finance-related modules. This is particularly important for a temporary role where qualifications can help you shine even brighter!
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Tailor Your Cover Letter Purposefully:When writing your cover letter, focus on why you’re interested in a temporary position at Atkins Clarke. Let them know how you can quickly adapt to the team's needs and how eager you are to learn the ropes of the banking sector during this short stint. Your motivation and enthusiasm could really set you apart!
Be Prepared with References:For temporary roles, references can play a crucial role in your application. Make sure you’ve got a couple of references lined up who can vouch for your skills and work ethic. This helps to give Atkins Clarke confidence in your short-term commitment to the role.
How to prepare for a job interview at Atkins Clarke
✨Brush Up on Financial Regulations
Since this is a role in banking and financial services, be ready to discuss key regulations like MiFID, Basel III, or GDPR. These are hot topics, and your awareness of how they impact daily operations can give you a significant edge during your interview with Atkins Clarke.
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Prepare for interview questions that assess your analytical abilities. You might need to tackle hypothetical scenarios involving risk assessment or financial forecasting. Bringing examples of relevant projects or coursework can emphasise your practical understanding of these concepts.
✨Highlight Flexibility and Adaptability
For a temporary role, showing that you can quickly pick up new processes and tools is crucial. Be ready to discuss previous experiences where you had to adapt to changing requirements or tight deadlines, as this will reassure Atkins Clarke that you’re a reliable team player.
✨Demonstrate a Willingness to Learn
In a temporary position, leaning into your eagerness to learn can really set you apart. Be prepared to share how you’re staying updated on industry trends or any additional training you've pursued. Employers appreciate candidates who are proactive about their development—even for short-term roles.
