At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a finance team and manage financial operations in a vibrant educational setting.
- Company: Join Denstone College, a welcoming community focused on growth and development.
- Benefits: Enjoy professional development opportunities and a supportive work environment.
- Other info: Be part of a network within the Woodard group and enhance your expertise.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on the financial strategy of a respected educational institution.
- 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 School's 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 at Denstone College in Uttoxeter employer: Denstone College
Contact Detail:
Denstone College Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Finance Manager at Denstone College in Uttoxeter
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the finance world, especially those who might have ties to Denstone College. A friendly chat can sometimes lead to opportunities that aren’t even advertised.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by researching Denstone College’s values and financial strategies. Show us you’re not just a finance whiz but also someone who aligns with our ethos and can contribute to our community.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your communication skills! As a Finance Manager, you’ll need to explain complex financial concepts clearly. Try explaining your past experiences to a friend or family member to get comfortable.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows us you’re genuinely interested in joining our team at Denstone College.
We think you need these skills to ace Finance Manager at Denstone College in Uttoxeter
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the Finance Manager role at Denstone College. Highlight your relevant experience, especially in financial control and team management, to show us you’re the perfect fit for our vibrant educational environment.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to express your passion for finance and education. Tell us why you want to join Denstone College and how your skills align with our values and the responsibilities of the role.
Showcase Your Leadership Skills: Since we’re looking for someone with leadership experience, make sure to highlight any past roles where you’ve managed or mentored a team. We want to see how you can foster a supportive environment for your future finance team!
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to apply 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. We can’t wait to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at Denstone College
✨Know Your Numbers
Before the interview, brush up on your financial knowledge. Be ready to discuss key financial metrics like P&L, Balance Sheets, and cash flow management. This will show that you understand the core responsibilities of the Finance Manager role at Denstone College.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
Prepare examples of how you've successfully managed and motivated a finance team in the past. Highlight your approach to training and development, as this is crucial for fostering a supportive environment within the finance department.
✨Understand the Educational Environment
Even if you don't have direct experience in education, research Denstone College and its values. Be ready to discuss how your skills can contribute to their financial strategy and support their mission, showing that you're genuinely interested in the role.
✨Prepare Questions
Think of insightful questions to ask during the interview. Inquire about the current financial challenges the college faces or how they measure success in the finance department. This demonstrates your proactive attitude and genuine interest in the position.