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For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the Finance Team and manage all financial operations for a leading college.
- Company: Renowned sixth form college in Manchester with a strong commitment to academic excellence.
- Benefits: Competitive salary and a supportive environment for personal development.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on financial integrity and support educational excellence.
- Qualifications: Qualified accountant with strong financial management skills and attention to detail.
- Other info: Join a values-driven community that prioritises sincerity, justice, and joy.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
Job Description
Our client is a leading sixth form college in Manchester, renowned for its commitment to academic excellence, personal development and a strong Catholic ethos. Their modern facilities and supportive environment enable both staff and students to thrive. They are proud of their values – Sincerity, Justice, Truth, Freedom, Excellence, Internationality and Joy – which underpin every aspect of college life.
They are seeking a highly skilled and motivated Financial Controller to lead their Finance Team and ensure the College’s financial integrity, efficiency and compliance.
Reporting to the Vice Principal (Planning & Resources), you will manage all aspects of financial operations, including budgeting, reporting, audit preparation and cash-flow management. You will play a key strategic role in planning and forecasting, supporting the Senior Leadership Team to optimise resources and maintain their outstanding standards.
You will have excellent technical skills, strong attention to detail and proven experience in financial management. Experience with Sage Intacct and in an educational environment is desirable.
Our client has appointed FE Associates to support them with this important appointment. Interested parties are advised to have an initial discussion with our lead consultant prior to submitting an application by emailing Amanda.Hart@fea.co.uk.
Closing date: 9am Tuesday 10 February 2026
Interview date: Thursday 26 February 2026
Financial Controller employer: FEA
Contact Detail:
FEA Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Financial Controller
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the education sector and let them know you're on the hunt for a Financial Controller role. You never know who might have the inside scoop on opportunities or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for those interviews! Research the college's values and think about how your experience aligns with their commitment to excellence and personal development. Be ready to share specific examples of how you've managed financial operations effectively.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your skills! If you’ve got experience with Sage Intacct, make sure to highlight that in conversations. It’s a great way to stand out and show you’re already familiar with tools they use.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! We’ve got all the latest job listings, and applying directly can sometimes give you an edge. Plus, it’s super easy to keep track of your applications!
We think you need these skills to ace Financial Controller
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV reflects the skills and experience that match the Financial Controller role. Highlight your financial management expertise and any relevant experience with budgeting and reporting, especially if you've worked in an educational environment.
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 values align with the college's ethos. Don’t forget to mention your qualifications and any specific experiences that make you a great fit.
Showcase Your Technical Skills: Since the role requires excellent technical skills, be sure to mention your proficiency with financial software like Sage Intacct. If you have experience with audit preparation or cash-flow management, make that clear too!
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to submit your application through our website for a smoother process. It’s the best way for us to receive your details and get you on the path to joining our fantastic team!
How to prepare for a job interview at FEA
✨Know Your Numbers
As a Financial Controller, you'll need to demonstrate your financial acumen. Brush up on key financial metrics and be ready to discuss how you've managed budgets and forecasts in the past. Show them you can talk the talk when it comes to numbers!
✨Align with Their Values
This college prides itself on its values like Sincerity, Justice, and Excellence. Before the interview, think about how your personal values align with theirs. Be prepared to share examples of how you've embodied these principles in your previous roles.
✨Prepare for Technical Questions
Expect questions that dive deep into your technical skills, especially around budgeting, reporting, and compliance. Familiarise yourself with Sage Intacct if you can, and be ready to explain how you've used similar tools in your previous positions.
✨Show Your Leadership Skills
As you'll be leading a finance team, it's crucial to showcase your leadership experience. Think of specific instances where you've motivated a team or improved processes. Highlight your ability to support senior leadership in strategic planning and resource optimisation.
