At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead financial and operational management to shape the future of a new independent school.
- Company: Chafyn-Godolphin School, a vibrant new educational institution in Salisbury.
- Benefits: Opportunity to make a real impact and work with a supportive team.
- Other info: Join a dynamic environment with a commitment to safeguarding and promoting diversity.
- Why this job: Be part of an exciting journey to create a first-choice school in the community.
- Qualifications: Proven leadership experience and strong financial acumen required.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
Chafyn-Godolphin, located in the cathedral town of Salisbury, is a 3–18 years, co-educational independent day and boarding school forming in September 2026 through the merger of the historic Godolphin and Chafyn Grove Schools. Building on the track record and popularity of its predecessor schools, Chafyn-Godolphin School will consolidate the position of the first-choice independent school in Salisbury and the surrounding area.
This is a unique and exciting opportunity to work alongside a new Head to help shape the creation of Chafyn-Godolphin School. The DFO will provide strong strategic, financial and commercial leadership, building operational capacity within the support teams and managing people and resources effectively. The School is a member of United Learning and benefits significantly from the Group’s resources and expertise.
Reporting to the Head, the DFO will have overall responsibility for the financial and operational management of the School, including facilities, grounds, catering, HR, IT and commercial activities. Candidates will have a proven track record of senior leadership and financial control, with strong commercial acumen, strategic planning expertise, and the ability to lead and motivate multi-disciplinary teams.
The successful candidate will possess an entrepreneurial spirit to identify and realise commercial opportunities and embrace change and will be excited by the idea of putting their stamp on the future of the school. An ability to establish highly effective, collaborative working relationships with the Head, Governors and colleagues both within the School and the wider United Learning Group will be essential.
Experience in an education setting is not a prerequisite, but candidates must be able to demonstrate empathy with independent education and a commitment to Chafyn-Grove and United Learning’s ethos and values.
Chafyn-Godolphin School is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, and applicants must be willing to undergo child protection screening appropriate to the post, including checks with past employers and the Disclosure & Barring Service. This post is exempt from the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 and the amendments to the Exceptions Order 1975, 2013 and 2020. The safeguarding responsibilities of this post are detailed in the candidate information brochure. RSAcademics is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and to promoting diversity and inclusion in schools.
Director of Finance and Operations in Salisbury employer: Chafyn-Godolphin School
Chafyn-Godolphin School, set in the historic town of Salisbury, offers a unique opportunity for the Director of Finance and Operations to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of an independent school. With a strong commitment to employee development, a collaborative work culture, and the backing of United Learning's extensive resources, this position not only promises professional growth but also the chance to make a meaningful impact in the education sector. The school's ethos prioritises safeguarding and inclusivity, ensuring a supportive environment for both staff and students.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Director of Finance and Operations in Salisbury
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the education sector and let them know you're on the hunt for a Director of Finance and Operations role. You never know who might have the inside scoop on opportunities or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for those interviews! Research Chafyn-Godolphin and understand their ethos and values. Be ready to discuss how your experience aligns with their vision and how you can contribute to shaping the future of the school.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your leadership skills! During interviews, share specific examples of how you've successfully led teams and managed resources in previous roles. Highlight your strategic planning expertise and commercial acumen to impress the hiring team.
✨Tip Number 4
Don't forget to apply through our website! It's the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you're serious about joining the Chafyn-Godolphin team and are keen to be part of this exciting new chapter.
We think you need these skills to ace Director of Finance and Operations in Salisbury
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter to reflect the specific skills and experiences that align with the Director of Finance and Operations role. Highlight your strategic leadership and financial management experience, as these are key for us at Chafyn-Godolphin.
Show Your Passion:We want to see your enthusiasm for independent education! Share why you’re excited about the opportunity to shape the future of Chafyn-Godolphin and how your values align with ours. A personal touch can really make your application stand out.
Be Clear and Concise:When writing your application, keep it straightforward and to the point. Use clear language to convey your achievements and how they relate to the role. We appreciate a well-structured application that’s easy to read!
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our official website! This ensures we receive all the necessary information in the right format. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining our team at Chafyn-Godolphin.
How to prepare for a job interview at Chafyn-Godolphin School
✨Know Your Numbers
As a Director of Finance and Operations, you'll need to demonstrate your financial acumen. Brush up on key financial metrics relevant to educational institutions, such as budget management and funding sources. Be ready to discuss how you've successfully managed finances in previous roles.
✨Show Your Strategic Side
This role requires strong strategic planning skills. Prepare examples of how you've developed and implemented successful strategies in past positions. Think about how you can apply these strategies to enhance operational capacity at Chafyn-Godolphin.
✨Emphasise Collaboration
Building effective relationships is crucial. Be prepared to talk about how you've fostered collaboration among diverse teams. Highlight any experience working with governors or stakeholders, as this will resonate well with the interviewers.
✨Demonstrate Your Passion for Education
Even if you don't have direct experience in education, show your enthusiasm for independent schooling. Research Chafyn-Godolphin's ethos and values, and be ready to explain how your vision aligns with theirs. This will help you connect with the interviewers on a personal level.
