At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead financial processes and manage budgets for a dynamic educational organisation.
- Company: Join a high-performing Multi Academy Trust in Birmingham.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, hybrid working, and a generous pension scheme.
- Other info: Opportunity for professional growth in a supportive team environment.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in education while developing your finance skills.
- Qualifications: Experience in finance, preferably in education or not-for-profit sectors.
The predicted salary is between 40000 - 40000 £ per year.
Our client, a leading educational organisation in Birmingham, is seeking a proactive and technically strong Trust Accountant for a 12-month contract to join its central finance team. Our client is a large, high-performing Multi Academy Trust with a strong track record, operating from dedicated offices in Birmingham.
As Trust Accountant, reporting to the Head of Finance, you will support and lead on key financial accounting processes, including:
- Leading the management accounting cycle for central office budgets (budgeting, forecasting, monthly reporting)
- Line management of the purchase ledger team including undertaking regular one-to-one meetings
- Acting as the primary contact for external auditors and managing audit queries
- Ensuring robust balance sheet controls, including bank and balance sheet reconciliations
- Cash and treasury management, including BACS checks and faster payments
- Preparing quarterly VAT returns and managing HMRC relationships
- Overseeing accounting for investment portfolios, property assets, special funds and endowments
- Maintaining the fixed asset register and depreciation schedules
The most desirable Trust Accountant applicant will have:
- Experience in education, charity or a not-for-profit setting
- Staff management experience
- Understanding of property/investment accounting (highly desirable)
- Experience with PS Financials (highly desirable)
- Be able to start in June 2026 for this 12-month contract
Circa £40,000 + Up to 12% matched pension + Hybrid working - 3 days per week in the Birmingham office.
Trust Accountant – 12‑Month Contract, Hybrid (Education) in Birmingham employer: EA First
Join a leading educational organisation in Birmingham that values proactive talent and offers a supportive work culture. As a Trust Accountant, you will benefit from a competitive salary, up to 12% matched pension, and the flexibility of hybrid working, all while contributing to a high-performing Multi Academy Trust dedicated to excellence in education. With opportunities for professional growth and a focus on employee well-being, this role is perfect for those seeking meaningful and rewarding employment in the education sector.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Trust Accountant – 12‑Month Contract, Hybrid (Education) in Birmingham
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the education sector, especially those who might know about opportunities at multi-academy trusts. A friendly chat can sometimes lead to job openings that aren't even advertised.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by brushing up on your financial accounting knowledge. Be ready to discuss your experience with budgeting, forecasting, and managing audits. We want you to shine when it comes to showcasing your skills!
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t forget to highlight your staff management experience! If you've led teams before, share those stories during interviews. It shows you're not just a numbers person but also a great leader.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take the initiative to connect directly with us.
We think you need these skills to ace Trust Accountant – 12‑Month Contract, Hybrid (Education) in Birmingham
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the Trust Accountant role. Highlight your experience in financial accounting, especially in education or not-for-profit settings. We want to see how your skills match what we're looking for!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're passionate about this role and how your background makes you a perfect fit. Don’t forget to mention any relevant experience with PS Financials or managing teams.
Showcase Your Technical Skills:Since this role requires strong technical skills, be sure to highlight your expertise in budgeting, forecasting, and financial reporting. We love seeing specific examples of how you've successfully managed these processes in the past.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother application process. It helps us keep everything organised and ensures your application gets the attention it deserves. Plus, it’s super easy!
How to prepare for a job interview at EA First
✨Know Your Numbers
As a Trust Accountant, you'll be dealing with budgets and financial reports. Brush up on your financial accounting skills and be ready to discuss your experience with budgeting, forecasting, and reporting. Prepare examples of how you've successfully managed these processes in the past.
✨Showcase Your Management Skills
Since this role involves line management of the purchase ledger team, be prepared to talk about your leadership style. Think of specific instances where you’ve led a team or conducted one-to-one meetings. Highlight how you motivate and support your team members.
✨Understand the Education Sector
Familiarise yourself with the unique financial challenges faced by educational organisations, especially Multi Academy Trusts. Be ready to discuss how your previous experience in education, charity, or not-for-profit settings has equipped you to handle these challenges effectively.
✨Prepare for Technical Questions
Expect questions about specific accounting practices, such as VAT returns and balance sheet reconciliations. Review relevant regulations and best practices, and be ready to explain how you ensure compliance and accuracy in your work.
