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- Tasks: Lead the Finance and Accounting department, providing strategic financial advice and oversight.
- Company: St Albans School, a prestigious independent day school with a strong academic reputation.
- Benefits: Full-time role with opportunities for professional growth and development.
- Other info: Commitment to safeguarding and promoting a diverse, inclusive work environment.
- Why this job: Join a dynamic team and make a real impact on financial strategies in education.
- Qualifications: Professional accountancy qualification and significant experience in senior management accounting.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 80000 £ per year.
St Albans School is a leading independent day school with an outstanding reputation for academic excellence.
About this Role
Reporting to the Bursar, this new post represents an exciting opportunity to join the School at a time when it is expanding its footprint. We are seeking an experienced and professionally qualified individual to lead the Finance and Accounting department of the St Albans School Group, which includes Beechwood Park School, the Woollam Trust, and Abbey Gateway Enterprises. The role offers scope for growth as the overall team's remit evolves. The postholder will provide accurate financial advice, guidance, and analysis to support strategic decision-making within the group.
Duties include overseeing the full budgeting and management accounts process, statutory accounts, audit, taxation, VAT, and regulatory compliance whilst ensuring effective financial systems, policies, controls, and operational accounting procedures are maintained. The role also involves responsibility for fees and bursaries processes, procurement oversight, and supporting the development of commercial income opportunities and lettings activities across the group.
Qualifications
The ideal candidate will hold a recognised professional accountancy qualification and will have significant post-qualification experience in a senior management accounting role. Experience of law relating to tax, PAYE, VAT, benefit‑in‑kind regulations, and charity status requirements is essential. Candidates should demonstrate excellent analytical, organisational, and communication skills, together with strong leadership capability, commercial awareness, and a high level of integrity. Experience within the charity sector and/or an independent school environment would be advantageous.
The post is full time, 37.5 hours per week, and will be based at the St Albans School site, with a regular presence required at the sites of associated entities.
Additional Information
The School is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children. Applicants must therefore be willing to undergo child protection screening and safer recruitment checks appropriate to the post, including checks with past employers and the Disclosure and Barring Service. St Albans School is an equal opportunity employer, committed to diversity and the creation of an inclusive environment for all employees. Employment selections are made according to suitability for the post, irrespective of background or protected characteristic. Should you have any queries please contact Sarah de Rossi, HR Manager, at scderossi@st-albans.herts.sch.uk. The School reserves the right to make an appointment before the closing date, so early applications are encouraged.
Finance Director at St Albans School employer: Bishop's Hatfield Girls' School
Contact Detail:
Bishop's Hatfield Girls' School Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Finance Director at St Albans School
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the education and finance sectors. We all know that sometimes it’s not just what you know, but who you know. Attend events, join relevant groups, and don’t be shy about asking for introductions.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the school’s values and recent developments. We want you to show that you’re not just another candidate; you’re genuinely interested in contributing to St Albans School’s mission. Tailor your responses to reflect how your experience aligns with their goals.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your pitch! You’ll want to clearly articulate your experience in finance and how it can benefit the school group. We suggest rehearsing with a friend or in front of a mirror to boost your confidence and ensure you hit all the key points.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to follow up after your interview! A simple thank-you email can go a long way. We recommend mentioning something specific from your conversation to remind them of your enthusiasm and fit for the role.
We think you need these skills to ace Finance Director at St Albans School
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV reflects the skills and experience mentioned in the job description. Highlight your qualifications and any relevant experience in finance and accounting, especially in a school or charity setting.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're the perfect fit for the Finance Director role. Mention specific examples of your leadership and analytical skills that align with what St Albans School is looking for.
Showcase Your Integrity: Given the importance of integrity in this role, make sure to include examples of how you've maintained high ethical standards in your previous positions. This will resonate well with the school's commitment to safeguarding and promoting welfare.
Apply Early!: Don’t wait until the last minute to submit your application. The school encourages early applications, so get your materials in as soon as you can through our website to increase your chances!
How to prepare for a job interview at Bishop's Hatfield Girls' School
✨Know Your Numbers
As a Finance Director, you'll need to demonstrate your financial acumen. Brush up on key financial metrics and be ready to discuss how you've used data to drive strategic decisions in your previous roles. This shows you can provide the accurate financial advice they’re looking for.
✨Understand the School's Mission
Familiarise yourself with St Albans School’s values and mission. Be prepared to explain how your experience aligns with their goals, especially in the context of managing finances within an educational environment. This will show that you're not just a numbers person, but also someone who cares about the institution's impact.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect questions that ask how you would handle specific financial challenges, such as budget cuts or compliance issues. Think through potential scenarios and have examples ready from your past experiences. This will demonstrate your problem-solving skills and readiness for the role.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Style
Since this role involves leading a team, be ready to discuss your leadership approach. Share examples of how you've successfully managed teams, fostered collaboration, and driven results. This will help them see you as a strong candidate who can lead the Finance and Accounting department effectively.