Finance Director in London

We are partnering with a Multi-Academy Trust in Wandsworth to recruit a Finance Director. The role is paying £65,000 - £75,000 per annum, plus attractive benefits. A Trust that holds a history of 'Outstanding' Ofsted inspections. They are a community of local schools that act with commitment, professionalism and loyalty.

Responsibilities:

• Maintaining the organisation's accounts in accordance with funding agreements and the Academies Trust Handbook.
• Preparing an annual budget, based on agreed input data.
• Preparing and maintaining a rolling three-year financial plan.
• Ensuring that the budgeting tool used by the organisation is kept up to date and incorporates local and national funding parameters.
• Effective payroll management with accurate and up-to-date records and returns.
• Efficient income collection, minimisation of debt, and timely processing of invoices.
• Accurate and timely financial reporting, including management accounts, to support effective budgetary control.
• Up-to-date asset registers.
• Undertaking monthly budget monitoring across the Trust.
• Preparing financial reports for governors and directors and attending meetings to present these reports.
• Liaising with budget holders and responding to financial queries.
• Maintaining a strong understanding of available funding streams to maximise grant income and other non-core funding, including SEND funding, and liaising with local authorities to secure termly funding.
• Managing cash flow and reporting regularly on the organisation's financial position to the board.
• Overseeing the effective delivery of all finance and payroll functions.
• Ensuring compliance with all legal and regulatory requirements relating to accounting, public sector finance, HMRC regulations and the Academies Finance Handbook.
• Overseeing external and internal audit.
• Undertaking liaison and preparatory work for capital funding bids.

Requirements:

• A recognised accounting qualification (e.g. ACCA, ACA or equivalent) is essential.
• Proven experience working as a School Business Manager or in a senior finance role within a school or academy.
• Substantial experience managing a wide range of strategic financial activities, including budget planning, monitoring and control, alongside day-to-day financial operations.
• A track record of leading, managing and developing a finance team, with evidence of mentoring and coaching staff.
• Experience of producing clear, high-quality reports and presenting financial information to governing boards or senior decision-makers.
• Knowledge of DfE funding regulations and statutory guidance relating to school financial management, including the Academies Trust Handbook.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to work confidently and constructively with stakeholders at all levels.
• Experience of using financial management systems such as SAGE and budgeting tools such as IMP Planner.
• Ability to build effective working relationships and handle sensitive matters with discretion, professionalism and empathy.
• Resilient and adaptable, with strong problem-solving skills and a positive approach to challenges.
• Ability to work effectively under pressure, manage competing priorities.

Benefits:

• £65,000 - £75,000 per annum.
• 36 hour working week.
• Local Government Pension Scheme.
• 29 days annual leave + 8 bank holidays.
• Sick pay.

EA First Ltd are acting as an Employment Agency for this permanent vacancy.