Finance Lead

Forward Education Trust

Salary: Grade G, Points 43 to 55 (£44,372 to £54,745) per annum.
Contract: Permanent, Full Time (36.5 hours per week), Full Year
Working Pattern: Hybrid working available with maximum 2 days per week working from home

Join Forward Education Trust as our Finance Lead

Forward Education Trust is seeking an exceptional Finance Lead to join our central team and play a key role in supporting the strategic and operational management of the Trust's finances.

This is an exciting opportunity for a suitably qualified person, who is looking to make a meaningful difference within a values-driven organisation that is committed to improving outcomes for children and young people across our academies. Finance at this Trust is much more than just numbers - it’s about understanding what’s behind the numbers, making money work for us in the best way possible, for our children and staff.

Reporting to the Director of Finance & Operations, you will provide financial leadership across the Trust, leading on budgeting, forecasting, management reporting, compliance and financial planning. You will work closely with Headteachers, senior leaders and Trustees, providing high-quality financial insight to support effective decision-making and long-term sustainability.

About the Role

As Finance Lead, you will:

• Lead the preparation and delivery of monthly management accounts across the Trust.
• Coordinate budgeting, forecasting and medium-term financial planning.
• Provide strategic financial analysis, modelling and business partnering support to school and Trust leaders.
• Lead year-end preparation, external audit activity and statutory financial returns.
• Oversee payroll reconciliations and key balance sheet controls.
• Support the development of robust financial systems, controls and reporting processes.
• Ensure compliance with academy, charity and financial regulations.
• Contribute to Trust-wide strategic planning, growth and development initiatives.

This is a varied and influential role that combines operational finance expertise with strategic leadership and relationship management.

About You

We are looking for a highly motivated and professionally qualified person who can combine technical excellence with strong stakeholder engagement skills.

You will have:

• A recognised accounting qualification (ACA, ACCA, CIMA, CIPFA or equivalent).
• Significant experience in management accounting, budgeting and forecasting.
• Experience of year-end accounts preparation and working with auditors.
• Strong analytical skills and the ability to interpret complex financial information.
• Advanced Excel and financial modelling skills.
• The confidence to provide support, challenge and advice to senior leaders.
• Excellent communication and relationship-building skills.
• A proactive approach to continuous improvement and problem solving.

Experience within an education or academy trust setting, or a charity, would be advantageous but is not essential.

Why Join Forward Education Trust?

At Forward Education Trust, we are committed to providing exceptional opportunities for our pupils and creating a collaborative and supportive environment for our staff.

We offer:

• Competitive salary.
• Hybrid working arrangements.
• Membership of the Local Government Pension Scheme.
• Ongoing professional development and career progression opportunities.
• A supportive and collaborative leadership team.
• The opportunity to make a real impact across the Trust.

Safeguarding

Forward Education Trust is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. All appointments are subject to satisfactory pre-employment checks, including an enhanced DBS check.

Forward Education Trust is an equal opportunities employer and welcomes applications from all suitably qualified candidates.