Job Title: Deputy Chief Financial Officer
Reports to: Chief Financial and Operations Officer (CFOO)
This job description summaries the purpose and responsibilities of the role; it is not an exhaustive list of tasks that may be necessary and undertaken to achieve this purpose. The purpose and responsibilities can be varied from time to time at the discretion of the Trust, in consultation with the role holder.
Role Purpose
To maintain strategic oversight of all Trust financial operations, ensuring full compliance with the Academy Trust Handbook, DfE requirements, and statutory regulations. To hold direct accountability for financial controls, risk management, budget monitoring, and high-performing finance services across all Trust schools.
Key Responsibilities
Financial Management and Control
Deputise for the CFO across all financial matters as required.
Direct the finance department, supervising staff and managing relationships with auditors, bankers, payroll, pensions, DfE, and third-party contractors.
Oversee financial records, month-end procedures, bank reconciliations, VAT returns, and ordering/purchasing routines in line with the scheme of delegation.
Lead the preparation and submission of the Trust’s Annual Reports, financial returns, and Companies House documentation within statutory timescales.
Manage financial systems and IT infrastructure, maintaining data back-ups, risk mitigations, and fraud prevention controls.
Execute employer obligations for the Local Government Pension Scheme (LGPS) and Teachers' Pension Scheme (TPS).
Direct cash flow, money transfers between accounts, credit card controls, and pursue debt recovery or legal action where appropriate.
Provide financial onboarding, systems training, and support for newly joining Trust schools and newly appointed key personnel.
Strategic Planning and Advisory
Partner with the CFOO and Accounting Officer to develop and execute the long-term financial strategy and multi-year business plans.
Establish key performance indicators (KPIs), benchmarking models, and performance tracking across all Trust institutions.
Provide expert advisory to the Trust Board and executive leadership on regulatory updates, compliance, and financial strategy.
Drive procurement efficiency, cost-saving initiatives, and revenue generation opportunities across all sites.
Continuous evaluation and implementation of robust financial policies and internal control measures.
Team Leadership and Operational Governance
Manage daily finance office operations, ensuring continuous service delivery during school holiday periods.
Conduct performance appraisals, identify training gaps, address underperformance, and build robust succession plans.
Foster a professional, respectful team culture aligned with the Trust's core values and strategic priorities.
Trust-Wide Commitments
Adhere strictly to Trust policies regarding Child Protection, Safeguarding, and Equal Opportunities.
Maintain compliance with the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974 and related Trust protocols.
Promote the vision, ethos, and reputation of Connect Education Trust in all professional interactions.
Communications
Using a command of spoken English that is sufficient to effectively carry out the duties of the role and liaise verbally and in writing with parents, pupils, governors, Agencies and other Organisations.
Other Responsibilities
To undertake such duties of a similar nature as may be reasonably directed by the Chief Executive Officer from time to time. The duties and responsibilities of the post may vary from time to time according to the changing needs of the Trust.
The postholder shall ensure the duties of the post are undertaken with due regard to the Trust’s Health & Safety Policy and to their personal responsibilities under the provision of the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974 and all other relevant subordinate legislation.
All Connect Education Staff Will
- Promote equality of opportunity
- Follow Safeguarding and Child Protection policy/procedures
- Contribute to producing/delivering priorities in the Trust Strategic Development Plan
- Keep their own performance under review, contributing to monitoring, evaluation and review and participate in performance management/appraisal
- Promote positive attitudes and behaviour
- Contribute to the smooth day to day running of the Trust
- Be committed to achieving the Trust values
- Work to develop the Trust as a successful inclusive Trust
- Respond promptly to concerns from parents, staff or students
- Promote the Trust in the community
- Work in partnership with all colleagues including the Local Governing Bodies and Trust Board
- Support Code of Conduct for staff
- Have regard for and act in accordance with Health and Safety policy/practice
- Celebrate success of pupils and staff
All Connect Education Trust Schools are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. Therefore, all employees working at the Trust are expected to share this commitment. The Trust and its schools are committed to ensuring that no applicant or employee receives less favourable treatment or is disadvantaged on the ground of gender, age, disability, religion, belief, sexual orientation, marital status or race. We encourage expertise and a staff that supports one another to develop their own practice by creating remarkable futures for all pupils.
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Deputy Chief Financial Officer employer: Connect Education Trust
As an Executive Finance Director at our Trust, you will join a supportive and collaborative work culture that prioritises professional development and employee growth. We offer competitive salaries, comprehensive benefits, and the opportunity to make a meaningful impact on the financial governance of our schools. Located in a vibrant community, our Trust is committed to fostering an inclusive environment where your expertise will be valued and your contributions recognised.
