Finance Manager in Leicester

Pending Pay Award Salary Uplift for Support Staff

We are seeking an exceptional Finance Manager to lead our finance operations, systems and financial controls across our growing Trust.

This is a pivotal role that combines operational finance leadership with the opportunity to improve processes, develop systems and help shape how financial services are delivered across our academies and central services.

Working closely with the Director of Finance, school leaders and colleagues across the Trust, you will ensure our finance function operates efficiently, compliantly and to the highest professional standards, enabling our schools to focus on what matters most: delivering an outstanding education for our pupil As Finance Manager, you will:

• Lead the Trust's finance operations, systems and financial controls.
• Oversee transactional finance functions, including purchase ledger, sales ledger, bank reconciliations and VAT processes.
• Ensure compliance with the Academy Trust Handbook, Trust Financial Regulations and statutory requirements.
• Drive improvements, automation and efficiencies across finance processes and systems.
• Manage and develop finance support staff, promoting a culture of excellence and continuous improvement.
• Lead the administration and development of PS Financials, i Complete and associated finance systems.
• Support internal and external audits, ensuring strong governance and audit readiness.
• Work collaboratively with Headteachers, School Business Managers, budget holders and central teams to provide expert financial advice and support.
• You will be a proactive and solutions-focused finance professional with:
• Experience in financial management and operational finance.
• Strong knowledge of financial controls, governance and compliance.
• Experience of managing and improving financial systems and processes.
• Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills.
• The ability to analyse problems, identify solutions and drive positive change.
• Experience of leading and developing others.
• A commitment to delivering excellent customer service and supporting colleagues across the organisation.

Experience within the education sector or academy trust environment would be advantageous, but most importantly, you'll bring a passion for improving financial processes and delivering a first-class finance service., Depending on your role, occasional travel between Discovery locations may be required.

A valid driving license and appropriate business insurance are necessary, and you will need to provide evidence of these documents

Discovery Schools Trust is dedicated to improving learning and teaching by creating a culture that promotes excellence.

The needs of all children are placed at the heart of all decision making regardless of the school they attend.

Teaching and learning excellence are shared through learning networks, sharing of ideas and materials as well as leading practitioners between schools.

Discovery has developed a school improvement system which focuses on improving outcomes for all children.

It also places staff development, talent management and succession planning at the heart of achieving outstanding organisations.

This is an exciting opportunity to join a values-led organisation where your work will have a direct impact on schools, colleagues and pupils.

You'll play a key role in strengthening financial operations, driving innovation and helping ensure resources are managed effectively to support educational excellence.

• Professional Growth & Support
• Ongoing professional development opportunities.
• Access to learning networks and visits to other organisations.
• Supportive leadership and a highly committed team.
• Highly committed and motivated Team.
• A role which has the opportunity to make a real difference whilst having fun.
• A established Central Services Team who support schools and wider colleagues.
• Work-Life & Wellbeing Benefits
• Flexible working options.
• Employee Assistance Programme (EAP).
• Defined benefit pension scheme.
• Be an integral member of the team in a vibrant school.
• Create an outstanding learning environment for the success of all of our children.
• Play a significant part in continuing to develop our school.
• Be part of a wider community of Discovery Schools Trust.
• Free childcare.
• Additional Perks
• Free parking.
• Cycle-to-work scheme.
• Gym discounts.
• Eyecare vouchers.
• Dental support.
• Retail discounts.
• Annual incremental pay increases within the pay scale.
• Equal Opportunities & Accessibility
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