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- Tasks: Lead a finance team, manage budgets, and ensure compliance in a vibrant educational setting.
- Company: Join Denstone College, a welcoming environment focused on professional growth.
- Benefits: Opportunities for personal development and networking within the finance community.
- Other info: Supportive culture that values your contributions and encourages continuous learning.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in education while advancing your finance career.
- Qualifications: AAT Level 4 or equivalent, with leadership experience in finance.
The predicted salary is between 40000 - 50000 £ per year.
Are you an experienced finance professional looking to take the next step in your career within a vibrant and welcoming educational environment? Denstone College is seeking a dedicated, analytical, and highly organised Finance Manager to join our team in September 2026. In this pivotal role, you will report into the Bursar/CFO and support the Finance Committee Governors to help develop and implement the Schools financial strategy while overseeing the daily operations of our busy finance department.
The Role & The Team
You will provide effective management of all financial services and take on immediate line management responsibility for a small, dedicated finance team. You will be responsible for guiding, training, and appraising your team, fostering a supportive environment that encourages continuous development.
Key Responsibilities Include:
- Financial Control & Reporting: Managing financial accounting systems, maintaining robust internal controls, and producing detailed monthly management reports (including P&L, Balance Sheet, and cash flow).
- Budgeting & Cash Flow: Coordinating the annual budget process, assisting budget holders across the College, and controlling cash flow with accurate forecasting.
- Operations & Compliance: Overseeing fee income reconciliation, administering invoicing and debt collection, and ensuring the School's compliance in all taxation matters such as VAT and Gift Aid.
- Audit & Year-End: Managing the annual audit process, liaising with appointed auditors, and overseeing all month-end and year-end procedures for all ledgers.
- Relationship Management: Building strong relationships with external suppliers, banks, outsourced providers, and working closely with parents on fee-related matters.
About You:
We are looking for an approachable, clear communicator with a friendly, "can do" attitude. To be successful in this role, you will bring:
- Qualifications: An Association of Accounting Technicians (AAT) Level 4 qualification, or equivalent.
- Leadership Experience: Essential experience in a finance leadership role, with a proven ability to manage, motivate, and mentor a finance team.
- Technical Expertise: Detailed working knowledge of finance computer systems, ledgers, and coding structures, alongside the analytical skills needed to support non-financial managers.
- Resilience: The ability to work well under pressure, manage conflicting priorities, and meet strict deadlines. (Note: While experience in an education setting is desired, it is absolutely not essential.)
Why Join Denstone College?
Denstone College offers a deeply rewarding working environment where your professional growth is valued. We are committed to your continued personal and professional development. As part of this role, you will have the opportunity to maintain a network of finance contacts within the wider Woodard group and attend relevant courses to expand your expertise.
If you share our commitment to the values and ethos of Denstone College and are ready to bring your financial expertise to our community, we would love to hear from you. Denstone College is deeply committed to keeping children safe in education. The successful applicant will be responsible for promoting and safeguarding the welfare of children and young persons. You must be willing to consent to an enhanced DBS check and adhere to all College policies, including Child Protection, Data Protection, and Health and Safety.
Finance Manager employer: Denstone College Ltd
Contact Detail:
Denstone College Ltd Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Finance Manager
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the finance world, especially those who have ties to educational institutions. A friendly chat can lead to opportunities that aren’t even advertised yet.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching Denstone College and its financial strategies. Show us you’re not just another candidate; demonstrate how your skills align with our goals and values.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your pitch! Be ready to explain your leadership style and how you’ve successfully managed teams in the past. We want to see your 'can do' attitude shine through.
✨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 us you’re genuinely interested in joining our vibrant community.
We think you need these skills to ace Finance Manager
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV reflects the skills and experiences that match the Finance Manager role. Highlight your leadership experience and technical expertise in finance systems, as these are key for us at Denstone College.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to showcase your passion for education and how your finance background can contribute to our vibrant community. Don’t forget to mention your 'can do' attitude!
Showcase Your Achievements: When detailing your past roles, focus on specific achievements that demonstrate your ability to manage finances effectively. We love seeing quantifiable results, so if you improved cash flow or streamlined processes, let us know!
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity at Denstone College!
How to prepare for a job interview at Denstone College Ltd
✨Know Your Numbers
As a Finance Manager, you'll need to demonstrate your financial acumen. Brush up on key financial concepts and be ready to discuss your experience with P&L statements, balance sheets, and cash flow management. Prepare examples of how you've successfully managed budgets and improved financial processes in previous roles.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
This role involves managing a finance team, so be prepared to talk about your leadership style. Think of specific instances where you've motivated or mentored team members. Highlight how you foster a supportive environment and encourage continuous development within your team.
✨Understand the Educational Context
While experience in education isn't essential, showing an understanding of the unique financial challenges faced by educational institutions can set you apart. Research Denstone College and be ready to discuss how your skills can specifically benefit their financial strategy and operations.
✨Build Relationships
Relationship management is key in this role. Be prepared to discuss how you've built strong relationships with external suppliers, banks, and other stakeholders. Share examples of how effective communication has helped you resolve issues or improve financial outcomes in your previous positions.