At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead financial management and provide strategic insights for our Multi Academy Trust.
- Company: Join a thriving Multi Academy Trust dedicated to education and community.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, professional development, and a supportive work environment.
- Other info: Commitment to safeguarding children and equal opportunities for all.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on the financial health of educational institutions.
- Qualifications: Experience in finance leadership and strong analytical skills required.
The predicted salary is between 59400 - 72600 £ per year.
We have an exciting opportunity for an experienced Finance Director, or an ambitious and suitably qualified individual, to join the Central Executive Team of our thriving Multi Academy Trust.
The Finance Director will provide leadership and management of all aspects of finance, as well as being a key member of the Trust's Strategic Leadership Team. The role will fulfil the Chief Financial Officer function (CFO) when representing the Trust. You will also have responsibility for financial management, providing technical leadership and support in all accounting matters across the Trust.
The role will include regular reporting and the production of high-quality reports in a timely manner enabling informed decisions to be made. The Finance Director will keep ahead of funding and legislative changes that apply to the education sector and will provide the Board of Trustees with strategic financial information to enable them to make informed financial decisions.
You also will be responsible for the operational line management of the finance function, managing all financial accounting and transactional finance for the Trust. The Finance Director will monitor financial performance and drive change within the finance operation of the Trust, bringing greater efficiency. Robust systems, processes and controls will be implemented, ensuring all financial information is up-to-date and reporting is in line with required annual financial returns.
Pathfinder Multi Academy Trust is an equal opportunities employer, committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children. Enhanced DBS check required. As part of our due diligence process, an online search will be conducted on all shortlisted candidates. These checks are carried out in accordance with Keeping Children Safe in Education (KCSIE) guidance to determine suitability to work with children and young people and keep them safe.
Closing date: Friday 11 September 2026 at midday
Interview date: W/C Monday 14 September 2026
Finance Director employer: City of York Council
Pathfinder Multi Academy Trust is an exceptional employer that prioritises the professional growth of its staff while fostering a collaborative and supportive work culture. As a Finance Director, you will play a pivotal role in shaping the financial strategy of our thriving educational environment, with opportunities for leadership development and innovation in financial management. Located in a vibrant community, we offer a fulfilling career path where your contributions directly impact the lives of students and the overall success of the Trust.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Finance Director
✨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.
✨Apply Directly and Be Proactive
Don’t shy away from reaching out directly to firms like City of York Council. Use their websites and apply through them, but also consider following up with a polite email to express your enthusiasm. Being proactive can make a huge difference in getting noticed in the competitive financial services sector.
We think you need these skills to ace Finance Director
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 City of York Council.
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 City of York Council'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 City of York Council
✨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 City of York Council.
✨Prepare for Case Studies
Expect to tackle case studies that demonstrate your problem-solving skills in real-world banking scenarios. Familiarise yourself with the types of problems you might face—think risk assessments or investment evaluations—and be ready to articulate your thought process clearly.
✨Show Your Passion for Finance
Since this is a full-time position, employers at City of York Council will be keen to see your genuine interest in finance. Be prepared to discuss recent industry trends or news articles that excite you, showcasing your enthusiasm and engagement with the field.
✨Network with Industry Professionals
Before your interview, reach out to current or former City of York Council 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.
