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For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead financial strategy and support decision-making for a multi-academy trust.
- Company: Join Sherborne Area Schools’ Trust, dedicated to flourishing students and communities.
- Benefits: Enjoy 31 days annual leave, free parking, and an employee benefits programme.
- Why this job: Be part of a dynamic team making a real impact in education and community development.
- Qualifications: Qualified accountant with strong leadership and communication skills required.
- Other info: This is a full-time role with significant influence within the organisation.
The predicted salary is between 43200 - 72000 ÂŁ per year.
This range is provided by Citadel Source. Your actual pay will be based on your skills and experience — talk with your recruiter to learn more.
Citadel Source is thrilled to partner with Sherborne Area Schools’ Trust (SAST) to support the search for their new Head of Finance.
About SAST
Sherborne Area Schools’ Trust (SAST) is a dynamic and forward-thinking multi-academy trust dedicated to ensuring that students, staff, and communities can flourish together. Their core purpose is underpinned by a commitment to Flourishing Children, Flourishing Schools, and Flourishing Communities. Their values are Partnership, Equity, Aspiration, and Kaizen (Continuous Improvement) which guides everything the organisation does.
The role
Reporting to the Chief Finance and Operations Officer (CFOO) and a key member of the senior leadership team, the Head of Finance will play a crucial role in delivering the Trust’s strategic and operational goals. This is a highly visible and influential position that, most importantly, requires the ability to build strong relationships across all levels of the Trust.
About you
The ideal candidate will be a qualified accountant (ACA, ACCA, CIMA, CIPFA preferred) with strong communication and relationship-building skills. You’ll have a track record of leading teams and managing complex financial environments. Strong analytical, communication, and problem-solving skills are essential, along with the ability to influence and collaborate with senior leaders. You thrive under pressure, embrace change, and are committed to supporting the Trust’s mission.
As the Head of Finance, your responsibilities will include, but are not limited to:
- Collaborate closely with the Chief Finance & Operations Officer and Senior Leadership team to support strategic decision-making and drive the Trust's financial and educational success.
- Use strong interpersonal skills to build relationships, influence outcomes, and motivate others effectively.
- Lead and develop a team of 11 consisting of 3 direct reports and 8 indirect, fostering a culture of high performance and continuous improvement.
- Provide high-quality financial support and advice to schools and business teams.
- Ensure consistent, high-quality service delivery and operational solutions to enhance organisation-wide efficiency.
- Demonstrate resilience and adaptability in driving and managing change within a complex environment.
- Deliver strategic and financial insights with clarity to enable informed decision-making.
- Encourage feedback, share best practices, and identify professional development needs to strengthen team capabilities.
What the client offers:
- Employee benefits program
- Free Parking
- 31 days annual leave + bank holidays
If you are interested in discussing this opportunity, please contact Grant Chalmers-Stevens at Citadel Source.
Seniority level: Not Applicable
Employment type: Full-time
Job function: Accounting/Auditing and Finance
Industries: Education
Head of Finance employer: Citadel Source
Contact Detail:
Citadel Source Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Finance
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the Sherborne Area Schools’ Trust's values and mission. Understanding their commitment to 'Flourishing Children, Flourishing Schools, and Flourishing Communities' will help you align your responses during interviews and demonstrate that you're a good cultural fit.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with current or former employees of SAST or similar educational trusts. Engaging in conversations about their experiences can provide valuable insights into the organisational culture and expectations for the Head of Finance role.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your leadership style and how you've successfully managed teams in complex financial environments. Be ready to share specific examples that highlight your ability to influence and motivate others, as this is crucial for the role.
✨Tip Number 4
Stay updated on current trends in finance within the education sector. Being knowledgeable about recent changes and challenges can help you articulate how you would contribute to the Trust’s strategic goals during discussions with the hiring team.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Finance
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Before applying, make sure to thoroughly understand the responsibilities and requirements of the Head of Finance position. Tailor your application to highlight how your skills and experiences align with the role's expectations.
Highlight Relevant Experience: In your CV and cover letter, emphasise your experience in leading teams and managing complex financial environments. Use specific examples that demonstrate your analytical, communication, and problem-solving skills.
Showcase Your Qualifications: Clearly state your qualifications, such as ACA, ACCA, CIMA, or CIPFA. Mention any relevant certifications or training that would support your candidacy for the Head of Finance role.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that not only outlines your qualifications but also reflects your understanding of the Sherborne Area Schools’ Trust's values. Discuss how you can contribute to their mission of Flourishing Children, Flourishing Schools, and Flourishing Communities.
How to prepare for a job interview at Citadel Source
✨Understand the Trust's Values
Before your interview, make sure you thoroughly understand Sherborne Area Schools’ Trust's core values: Partnership, Equity, Aspiration, and Kaizen. Be prepared to discuss how your personal values align with theirs and provide examples of how you've embodied these principles in your previous roles.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Experience
As the Head of Finance, you'll be leading a team of 11. Highlight your past leadership experiences, focusing on how you've developed teams and fostered high performance. Prepare specific examples that demonstrate your ability to motivate and influence others effectively.
✨Prepare for Financial Strategy Discussions
Expect questions around financial strategy and decision-making. Brush up on your analytical skills and be ready to discuss how you've used financial insights to drive strategic decisions in previous roles. Think about how you can apply this to support the Trust's educational success.
✨Demonstrate Adaptability and Resilience
The role requires managing change within a complex environment. Be prepared to share examples of how you've successfully navigated challenges and adapted to change in your previous positions. This will show your potential employer that you can thrive under pressure and embrace new situations.
