At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead financial planning and reporting for a growing Catholic Academy Trust.
- Company: Emmaus Catholic Academy Trust, dedicated to excellent education.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, strong governance, and impactful work in education.
- Other info: Join a supportive team committed to safeguarding and child welfare.
- Why this job: Make a difference in education while shaping financial strategies.
- Qualifications: Professional accountancy qualification required.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 80000 £ per year.
Emmaus Catholic Academy Trust (Diocese of Salford) is dedicated to providing great Catholic education which enables all pupils within our family of schools to flourish. As part of our continued growth and commitment to excellence, we are seeking to expand our central team with the appointment of a Head of Financial Planning and Reporting to support our CFO.
The Head of Financial Planning and Reporting is a pivotal leadership position, responsible for the ongoing financial planning and reporting across a rapidly growing Catholic Academy Trust, leading the central business partnering team, maintaining strong relationships with school leaders and working with the Financial Controller and CFO to enhance systems and processes and advise the board on financial efficiency and the ongoing financial strategy.
Supporting the CFO with delivery of the finance strategy and leading a team of up to 10 Finance Business Partners, including Senior Finance Business Partners, in a catholic‑academy trust of over 50 schools (primary and secondary) and responsible for the ongoing budgeting and strategic financial planning, including monthly reporting and forecasting at a consolidated level, deputising for the CFO where appropriate.
The post holder will be responsible for delivering robust financial strategy, strong financial governance, and high‑quality financial operations across Emmaus CAT. They will ensure that Emmaus CAT remains financially resilient, compliant, and able to invest effectively in educational outcomes. Working closely with the CFO and the Financial Controller, you will provide strategic financial insight to the Board and Executive Team, and support school leaders to achieve value for money and sustainable school improvement.
Qualifications
- Professional full or part accountancy qualification essential.
Safeguarding Information
We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expect all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. The successful candidate will be required to complete an enhanced DBS application and will be subject to further safer recruitment checks, such as references, with ID documents retained on file. All shortlisted candidates will be subject to an online check, as part of our due‑diligence in line with Keeping Children Safe in Education 2025.
Head of Financial Planning & Reporting (Deputy CFO) in Sale employer: Emmaus Catholic Academy Trust
Emmaus Catholic Academy Trust is an exceptional employer that prioritises the professional growth of its staff while fostering a supportive and collaborative work culture. With a commitment to excellence in education, employees benefit from strong leadership, opportunities for career advancement, and the chance to make a meaningful impact across a network of over 50 schools. Located in the heart of the Diocese of Salford, the Trust offers a unique environment where financial professionals can thrive and contribute to the educational success of the community.
Contact Details:
Emmaus Catholic Academy Trust Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Financial Planning & Reporting (Deputy CFO) in Sale
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the education sector, especially those involved with financial planning. A friendly chat can lead to insider info about job openings or even a referral.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching Emmaus Catholic Academy Trust thoroughly. Understand their mission and values, and think about how your experience aligns with their goals. This will help you stand out as a candidate who truly gets what they’re about.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your leadership skills! Be ready to discuss your experience managing teams and driving financial strategies. Use specific examples that highlight your ability to enhance systems and processes, which is key for this role.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining the Emmaus team.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Financial Planning & Reporting (Deputy CFO) in Sale
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV reflects the skills and experiences that align with the Head of Financial Planning & Reporting role. Highlight your leadership experience and any relevant financial qualifications to show us you’re the right fit!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to tell us why you’re passionate about financial planning in an educational setting and how your values align with our mission at Emmaus Catholic Academy Trust.
Showcase Your Achievements:Don’t just list your responsibilities; share your achievements! Quantify your successes in previous roles, especially those related to financial strategy and governance, to give us a clear picture of your impact.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you don’t miss out on any important updates during the process!
How to prepare for a job interview at Emmaus Catholic Academy Trust
✨Know Your Numbers
As a candidate for the Head of Financial Planning & Reporting, you need to be on top of your financial game. Brush up on key financial metrics and reporting standards relevant to educational institutions. Be ready to discuss how you've used these in past roles to drive financial strategy.
✨Showcase Leadership Skills
This role involves leading a team of Finance Business Partners, so it's crucial to demonstrate your leadership experience. Prepare examples of how you've successfully managed teams, fostered collaboration, and improved processes in previous positions. Highlight your ability to mentor and develop others.
✨Understand the Educational Landscape
Emmaus Catholic Academy Trust is focused on providing quality education. Familiarise yourself with the challenges and opportunities in the education sector, especially in financial planning. Be prepared to discuss how your financial strategies can support educational outcomes and sustainability.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect scenario-based questions that assess your problem-solving skills and strategic thinking. Think about potential financial challenges a growing academy trust might face and how you would address them. This will show your proactive approach and readiness to support the CFO effectively.
