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- Tasks: Lead financial strategy and governance to drive impactful change in education.
- Company: Join E-ACT, a forward-thinking multi academy trust dedicated to social mobility.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, generous leave, pension schemes, and wellbeing support.
- Other info: Be part of a values-led team making a real difference in communities.
- Why this job: Shape the future of education while empowering over 26,000 pupils to thrive.
- Qualifications: Professional accountancy qualification and strong leadership skills required.
The predicted salary is between 75000 - 100000 £ per year.
E ACT is at a pivotal and exciting moment in its journey. As one of England's most ambitious and forward-looking multi-academy trusts, we now serve over 26,000 pupils across 37 academies, and we are entering a new phase of growth, innovation and national influence. Our work is guided by our Thrive Strategy, built on the conviction that every child in an E ACT academy should have the opportunity to thrive, regardless of their starting point or background.
Following a period of significant organisational transformation and strengthened financial performance, our outgoing CFO will be transitioning into the role of Deputy CEO. They leave behind a well-run, well-resourced and sector-leading financial operation, giving our new CFO an exceptional platform from which to drive even greater impact.
We are now seeking an outstanding Chief Financial Officer who will be a true strategic partner to the CEO and Board. This is not a traditional back office finance post. The CFO will play a central role in shaping E ACT's long-term financial strategy, supporting our responsible growth ambitions, enabling digital and AI-led innovation, and ensuring that every financial decision ultimately improves the life chances of the children and communities we serve. This is a unique opportunity to join a high-performing, values-led trust with real momentum, one that thinks big, does the right thing, shows team spirit and is deeply committed to social mobility and educational excellence.
Key responsibilities- Provide strategic financial leadership
- Ensure robust financial governance
- Lead financial planning and performance
- Drive value for money and commercial effectiveness
- Champion digital transformation
- Lead and develop the finance and procurement functions
- Professional accountancy qualification
- Deep financial expertise
- Strong commercial and analytical skills
- Digital and systems fluency
- Leadership and relationship-building
- Purpose-driven mindset
Join a trust that is going places! At E-ACT, we believe every child deserves opportunity. Our 'Opening Minds, Opening Doors' strategy breaks down barriers and builds pathways to success; driven by purposeful leadership, collaboration, and innovation. We champion diversity, encourage a people-first culture, and ensure every voice is heard. We are proud to lead system-wide change both locally and nationally - providing sector-wide support while transforming futures.
Our achievements are recognised through winning MAT of the Year 2023 at the MAT Excellence Awards and National School Awards, and also the TES Trust Leadership Award 2024. E-ACT is recognised for shaping bold educational outcomes. Most recently, two of our Birmingham academies were selected by the Department for Education as RISE Regional Hubs, in recognition of their outstanding work on inclusion and behaviour, a testament to the impact of our people-first culture and relentless drive for excellence.
With 38 academies and over 25,000 pupils, our dedicated staff make excellence possible. We prioritise wellbeing, tackle workload, and continuously raise the bar. We don't just educate, we inspire ambition and empower every child to thrive.
Benefits- Financial and Lifestyle: We offer a strong financial package including access to defined benefit pension schemes (LGPS or TPS), life cover at three times pensionable pay, and 31 days of annual leave for year-round employees. Staff can also benefit from the Cycle to Work scheme, promoting healthy and sustainable commuting.
- Professional Growth and Development: We invest heavily in staff development through tailored INSET days and high-quality CPD opportunities for both teaching and support staff. Teaching staff benefit from automatic TLR progression, a structured 9-point pay scale (M1 to UPS3), and full TLR payments for part-time colleagues fulfilling full responsibilities.
- Culture and Wellbeing: Our people-first culture values every colleague. We support wellbeing through the Wisdom app and a free Employee Assistance Programme offering counselling and financial advice. Collaboration is at the heart of our Trust, encouraging shared learning and collective success.
Please look at our 'Work for Us' page and Recruitment Pack for more information.
How to apply: Please read the supporting documentation carefully before completing your application. E-ACT is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of young people and vulnerable adults, and all appointments are subject to enhanced Disclosure & Barring Service (DBS) checks and satisfactory references. E-ACT is also committed to promoting equality, challenging discrimination and developing community cohesion. We welcome applications from all sections of the community.
Chief Financial Officer in England employer: E-ACT
Contact Detail:
E-ACT Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Chief Financial Officer in England
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the education sector, especially those who know E-ACT. A friendly chat can open doors and give you insider info that could set you apart.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by diving deep into E-ACT's Thrive Strategy. Show us how your financial expertise aligns with our mission to improve life chances for children. We love candidates who are passionate about our values!
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your pitch! Be ready to discuss how you've driven financial strategy in previous roles. We want to hear about your successes and how you can bring that magic to E-ACT.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take that extra step.
We think you need these skills to ace Chief Financial Officer in England
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion: When writing your application, let your enthusiasm for the role shine through! We want to see how your values align with our mission at E-ACT and how you can contribute to our vision of every child thriving.
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored specifically for the CFO role. Highlight your financial expertise and leadership experience that directly relates to the responsibilities outlined in the job description. We love seeing relevant examples!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to tell us why you're the perfect fit for E-ACT. Be sure to address how you can support our growth ambitions and drive digital transformation. Keep it engaging and personal!
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply through our website for a smooth application process. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves. Plus, you’ll find all the info you need about us there!
How to prepare for a job interview at E-ACT
✨Know Your Numbers
As a Chief Financial Officer, you’ll need to demonstrate your deep financial expertise. Brush up on key financial metrics and be ready to discuss how you've used data to drive strategic decisions in previous roles. This shows that you can not only manage finances but also leverage them for growth.
✨Align with the Thrive Strategy
Familiarise yourself with E-ACT's Thrive Strategy and be prepared to discuss how your vision aligns with their goals. Think about how your financial leadership can support their mission of improving life chances for children and communities. This will show that you’re not just a numbers person, but someone who truly cares about the impact of your work.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Style
E-ACT is looking for a strategic partner, so be ready to talk about your leadership approach. Share examples of how you've built relationships and led teams effectively. Highlight your experience in championing digital transformation and driving value for money, as these are key aspects of the role.
✨Prepare Thoughtful Questions
Interviews are a two-way street! Prepare insightful questions that reflect your understanding of the organisation’s challenges and opportunities. Ask about their plans for digital innovation or how they measure success in their financial operations. This demonstrates your genuine interest and strategic thinking.