At a Glance
- 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 Woodard group.
- Other info: Commitment to safeguarding children and a supportive work culture.
- 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 in Uttoxeter employer: Denstone College Ltd
Contact Detail:
Denstone College Ltd Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Finance Manager in Uttoxeter
✨Network Like a Pro
Get out there and connect with people in the finance sector! Attend industry events, join online forums, or even reach out to alumni from your school. Building relationships can open doors to opportunities that aren’t advertised.
✨Ace the Interview
Prepare for your interviews by researching the company and practising common finance-related questions. We recommend using the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your answers and showcase your experience effectively.
✨Showcase Your Skills
When you get the chance to meet potential employers, don’t just talk about your qualifications—demonstrate your skills! Bring examples of your work, like reports or presentations, to show how you can add value to their team.
✨Apply Through Our Website
Don’t forget to apply through our website for the best chance at landing that Finance Manager role! We’re always on the lookout for passionate candidates who align with our values and are ready to make a difference.
We think you need these skills to ace Finance Manager in Uttoxeter
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 finance and education. Let us know how your 'can do' attitude and analytical skills will contribute to our vibrant community.
Be Clear and Concise: When filling out your application, keep your language clear and to the point. We appreciate straightforward communication, so avoid jargon and focus on what makes you the perfect fit for our team.
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 don’t miss any important updates about the process!
How to prepare for a job interview at Denstone College Ltd
✨Know Your Numbers
Before the interview, brush up on your financial knowledge. Be prepared to discuss key financial metrics like P&L, Balance Sheets, and cash flow management. This will show that you’re not just familiar with the concepts but can also apply them in a practical setting.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
Since this role involves managing a finance team, think of specific examples where you've successfully led a team or mentored someone. Highlight how you fostered a supportive environment and helped others grow, as this aligns perfectly with what Denstone College is looking for.
✨Understand the Educational Context
Even if you don’t have direct experience in an educational setting, do some research on the unique financial challenges schools face. Being able to speak to these issues will demonstrate your commitment and understanding of the role’s context.
✨Prepare Questions
Interviews are a two-way street! Prepare thoughtful questions about the finance department's current challenges or the school's financial strategy. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you assess if it’s the right fit for you.