At a Glance
- Tasks: Support schools with financial planning and decision-making to enhance children's educational outcomes.
- Company: Join Flying High Partnership, a multi-academy trust dedicated to empowering children and communities.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working, generous leave, professional development, and a supportive team environment.
- Other info: Dynamic role with opportunities for career progression and a commitment to diversity and inclusion.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in children's lives while influencing financial strategies across multiple schools.
- Qualifications: Experience in finance, strong analytical skills, and the ability to build relationships with stakeholders.
The predicted salary is between 40000 - 50000 £ per year.
Are you a finance professional who wants to use your expertise to make a genuine difference to children's lives? Do you enjoy working alongside school leaders to ensure resources are used effectively, sustainably, and in ways that maximise opportunities and outcomes for children? Flying High Partnership is seeking a collaborative Finance Business Partner to join our growing Finance Team.
This is an exciting opportunity for:
- Finance professionals looking to move into a true business partnering role where they can influence strategy and decision-making
- School finance leaders seeking an opportunity to have impact across multiple schools
- Qualified, part-qualified or experienced finance professionals with strong business partnering and financial planning expertise, who enjoy working closely with senior stakeholders
- Individuals who want to use their financial expertise to make a lasting impact on children, schools and communities
If you enjoy turning financial data into meaningful insight, building trusted relationships and supporting leaders to make informed decisions, this could be your next career move.
About Flying High
Flying High Partnership is a thriving multi-academy trust of 39 primary schools across Derbyshire, Leicestershire, Nottingham City and Nottinghamshire. We are driven by an ambitious vision: Together we will create unique, exceptional and sustainable schools that inspire communities and empower children. Founded in 2012, we believe in the power of meaningful collaboration to help schools reach their full potential while supporting others along the way. Our Partnership celebrates individuality, champions continuous improvement and ensures every child thrives. Through high-quality professional learning, leadership development and a culture of collaboration, we are committed to growing exceptional teachers, support staff and leaders who make a lasting difference to children's lives. Whether working in our schools or as part of our Central Team, every colleague plays an important role in helping us deliver outstanding experiences and opportunities for the children and communities we serve.
The Role
This is far more than a traditional finance role. As a Finance Business Partner, you will work closely with Headteachers, School Business Leads and senior leaders across a portfolio of schools, providing both strategic financial leadership and practical support. Your role will help schools achieve financial sustainability while ensuring resources are directed towards improving educational outcomes for children. You will act as a trusted adviser and critical friend, supporting leaders with financial planning, budget management, forecasting and decision-making. You'll provide professional challenge, identify opportunities for improvement and help schools make informed choices that balance financial sustainability with educational priorities.
A key aspect of this role is relationship building. While your base will be our Head Office in Chilwell, this is not a desk-bound position. Regular travel to schools across the partnership is essential, allowing you to work directly with leaders, understand individual school contexts and provide high-quality support where it has the greatest impact.
Key responsibilities include:
- Supporting budget setting, forecasting and long-term financial planning
- Providing financial analysis, insight and strategic advice to senior leaders
- Developing financial models and scenario plans to support decision making
- Identifying financial risks, opportunities and efficiencies
- Producing and presenting financial reports to school leaders and governors
- Supporting schools to maintain strong financial controls and compliance
- Coaching and developing School Business Leads and school finance teams
- Contributing to Partnership-wide projects, improvements and strategic initiatives
- Supporting schools to achieve sustainable financial performance whilst maintaining a clear focus on children and educational outcomes
What We Offer
At Flying High Partnership, we believe that great people deserve great support. We are committed to helping our colleagues thrive professionally, personally and financially. As part of our team, you'll benefit from:
- A genuinely rewarding role with the opportunity to influence outcomes across multiple schools
- The chance to work closely with senior leaders and contribute to strategic decision-making
- A supportive and collaborative central team environment
- High-quality professional development, structured CPD and career progression opportunities through our Futures Team
- Membership of the Local Government Pension Scheme with excellent employer contributions and valuable life assurance benefits
- Access to a 24/7 Employee Assistance Programme providing confidential wellbeing, counselling, legal and financial support for you and your immediate family
- Generous annual leave entitlement of 28 days plus bank holidays
- Flexible working opportunities where operationally possible together with enhanced family-friendly policies
- Access to a wide range of discounts, cashback offers, Cycle to Work and car leasing schemes
- A culture that values employee voice, celebrates success and recognises achievement across the Partnership
About You
We are looking for a finance professional who combines strong technical expertise with excellent relationship-building skills. You will:
- Have experience of financial planning, budgeting, forecasting and financial analysis
- Be confident working with and influencing senior stakeholders
- Be able to communicate complex financial information clearly to non-finance audiences
- Demonstrate strong analytical and problem-solving skills
- Be organised, proactive and solutions-focused
- Have the ability to build credibility and trust with a wide range of stakeholders
- Be comfortable managing multiple priorities across a portfolio of schools
- Share our commitment to delivering the very best outcomes for children
Experience within education would be advantageous, but we welcome applications from candidates with strong business partnering experience gained in other sectors.
Additional Information
Early applications are encouraged as we reserve the right to interview and appoint before the closing date.
Safeguarding Statement
We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expect all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. This post is subject to an enhanced DBS check, satisfactory references, online searches for shortlisted candidates, and all other safer recruitment checks in line with Keeping Children Safe in Education (KCSIE). We actively seek to ensure that all appointments are made in accordance with safer recruitment principles and best practice.
Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Statement
We are committed to fostering an inclusive and diverse workplace where everyone is valued and respected. We welcome applications from all suitably qualified candidates regardless of age, disability, gender reassignment, marriage and civil partnership, pregnancy and maternity, race, religion or belief, sex, or sexual orientation. We are committed to creating a workforce that reflects the communities we serve and to promoting equality of opportunity throughout the recruitment process and employment journey.
Finance Business Partner in Nottingham employer: Flying High Trust
Flying High Partnership is an exceptional employer that offers a supportive and dynamic work environment for HR Apprentices in Nottingham. With a focus on employee growth, you will gain invaluable hands-on experience across various HR functions while working within a vibrant team dedicated to the development of 39 primary schools. Our commitment to fostering strong communication and teamwork ensures that you will thrive as you embark on your career in People Ops.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Finance Business Partner in Nottingham
✨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 Flying High Trust. 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 Finance Business Partner in Nottingham
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 Flying High Trust.
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 Flying High Trust'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 Flying High Trust
✨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 Flying High Trust.
✨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 Flying High Trust 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 Flying High Trust 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.
