At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead financial planning and reporting while partnering with senior leaders in education.
- Company: Join a Multi-Academy Trust focused on school improvement and collaboration.
- Benefits: Earn £51,500 - £55,500, enjoy hybrid working, and benefit from generous leave.
- Other info: Embrace a values-driven environment that prioritises respect, inclusion, and personal growth.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on education by shaping financial strategies for schools.
- Qualifications: Must be a fully qualified accountant with experience in education or not-for-profit.
The predicted salary is between 51500 - 55500 £ per year.
We are assisting a Multi-Academy Trust in Derby to recruit a Senior Finance Business Partner. This is an exciting opportunity for an experienced, qualified accountant to step into a high-profile role, partnering with senior leaders. The role is paying £51,500 - £55,500 per annum, plus Local Government Pension Scheme and hybrid working.
This Derby based Multi-Academy Trust brings together a number of primary and secondary settings under a single strategic framework, with a strong focus on delivering consistently high standards and supporting school improvement. By encouraging collaboration and shared expertise, it aims to strengthen leadership and classroom practice while improving outcomes for young people. Their approach is underpinned by clear values centred on respect, inclusion, and personal growth. Alongside academic success, there is a strong emphasis on developing well-rounded individuals and ensuring resources are managed effectively to maintain stability and support future development.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead consolidated financial planning, forecasting, and reporting.
- Deliver clear, insightful variance analysis and performance metrics.
- Produce high quality reports for senior stakeholders and committees.
- Work closely with senior leadership teams to shape strategic decisions.
- Translate complex financial data into meaningful information for non-finance stakeholders.
- Align financial planning with organisational objectives and educational priorities.
- Support academies with financial recovery planning and risk management.
- Lead cost efficient initiatives and promote best value procurement.
- Drive scenario modelling and long-term financial planning.
- Line manage and mentor Finance Business Partners.
- Build capability, resilience, and collaboration across the finance function.
- Build strong relationships with leaders, governors, and external partners.
Key Qualifications
- Fully qualified accountant (ACA, ACCA, CIPFA or CIMA/CGMA) with post-qualification experience.
- Strong understanding of education funding and sector challenges is desirable.
- A track record of working a multi-site role in an Education or Not-for-Profit setting.
- Proven ability to influence senior stakeholders.
- Experience leading change and driving improvement.
- Advanced financial modelling and reporting expertise.
- A collaborative, engaging leadership style.
- Committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people.
- Supportive of a values driven environment.
Benefits
- £51,500 - £55,500 per annum.
- 37 hour working week.
- Local Government Pension Scheme.
- 25 days annual leave (rising to 30), plus 8 public holidays.
- CPD opportunities.
- Hybrid working.
- Employee benefit scheme.
- Cycle to work scheme.
- Employee Assistance Programme.
Senior Finance Business Partner employer: EA FIRST LTD
As a leading Multi-Academy Trust in Derby, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer that values respect, inclusion, and personal growth. Our supportive work culture fosters collaboration and shared expertise, providing ample opportunities for professional development and career progression. With competitive salaries, a robust benefits package including a Local Government Pension Scheme, and a commitment to work-life balance through hybrid working arrangements, we are dedicated to creating a meaningful and rewarding environment for our employees.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Finance Business Partner
✨Tap into Campus Networks
If you're still in uni, don’t forget to engage with your campus's career services and attend finance-related events. Banks often do presentations and recruitment drives on campus, so put yourself out there and make use of these opportunities to show off your passion for the field.
✨Get Certified
Consider pursuing relevant certifications like the CFA or ACCA while you’re job hunting. They not only beef up your CV but also connect you with professional bodies which can lead to networking opportunities and even job openings in banking and financial services.
✨Connect on Professional Platforms
Join finance-focused groups on platforms like LinkedIn and engage in discussions. This can really help you stand out from the crowd, allowing potential employers to see your knowledge and interest in industry trends. Plus, you might stumble upon job postings shared exclusively within the group.
✨Apply Directly and Be Proactive
Don’t shy away from reaching out directly to firms like EA FIRST LTD. Use their websites and apply through them, but also consider following up with a polite email to express your enthusiasm. Being proactive can make a huge difference in getting noticed in the competitive financial services sector.
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Finance Business Partner
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Numbers!:In the banking and financial services world, quantifiable achievements are key. Make sure your CV highlights your grades in relevant subjects, any financial certifications you hold, and specific projects where you've delivered measurable results. Employers love to see how your skills translate into real-world success.
Tailor Your Cover Letter to the Role:When applying for a full-time position, your cover letter should make a direct connection between your experience and the job description. Don't just state your enthusiasm for finance—dive into how your background in banking or financial analysis sets you apart. Let your passion shine through while being specific about what you can bring to EA FIRST LTD.
Include Relevant Financial Software Experience:If you've worked with financial modelling tools or software like Excel, SAP, or specific analytical tools during your studies or internships, bring that up! Highlighting your proficiency can really make your application pop and show you're ready to hit the ground running in a full-time role.
Research and Reflect:Before hitting that 'apply' button on EA FIRST LTD's website, do a little digging. Look up their recent projects, values, and culture. Reflecting their ethos in your application can make a huge difference and show you’re genuinely interested in being part of the team!
How to prepare for a job interview at EA FIRST LTD
✨Brush Up on Financial Analysis Skills
Make sure you're well-versed in financial concepts and analytical techniques relevant to banking and financial services. Get comfortable with tools like Excel for modelling or financial forecasting, as technical questions in this area are common during interviews with EA FIRST LTD.
✨Prepare for Case Studies
Expect to tackle case studies that demonstrate your problem-solving skills in real-world banking scenarios. Familiarise yourself with the types of problems you might face—think risk assessments or investment evaluations—and be ready to articulate your thought process clearly.
✨Show Your Passion for Finance
Since this is a full-time position, employers at EA FIRST LTD will be keen to see your genuine interest in finance. Be prepared to discuss recent industry trends or news articles that excite you, showcasing your enthusiasm and engagement with the field.
✨Network with Industry Professionals
Before your interview, reach out to current or former EA FIRST LTD employees on platforms like LinkedIn. They'll offer unique insights into the company's culture and the interview process, which can give us a delightful edge in showcasing a good fit for the team.
