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- Tasks: Lead financial strategy and operations for a leading education charity.
- Company: Join the Girls' Day School Trust, a pioneer in girls' education.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, full-time hours, and a chance to make a difference.
- Why this job: Shape the future of education while leading a high-performing finance team.
- Qualifications: Qualified accountant with senior-level experience in complex organisations.
- Other info: Diversity and inclusion are at the heart of our mission.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 80000 ÂŁ per year.
The Girls’ Day School Trust (GDST) is seeking an outstanding Deputy Chief Financial Officer (Deputy CFO) to provide strategic and operational financial leadership across one of the UK’s leading education charities. With a gross income of over £350 million, the GDST is one of the twenty largest charities in the UK and is recognised as a global leader in girls’ education, combining 154 years of expertise and experience with a progressive and pace‑setting vision for the future. Our 23 independent schools and two academies educate over 19,000 students across England and Wales and are united by a shared purpose: to help girls learn without limits, so that they can go on to lead lives without limits.
Responsibilities
- Lead financial accounting, reporting, tax, treasury, systems and controls across the GDST, ensuring the integrity of the organisation’s financial position.
- Ensure effective financial governance and provide high‑quality insight to senior leaders and Trustees to enable confident decision‑making and long‑term sustainability.
- Lead and develop high‑performing finance teams, working in close partnership with school and Trust Office leaders, and drive continuous improvement in financial systems, processes and capability.
- Balance strong financial control with a pragmatic, solutions‑focused approach.
Qualifications
- Qualified accountant (ACA, ACCA or CIMA) with significant senior‑level experience in a complex organisation.
- Deep expertise in financial reporting, statutory accounts, audit, tax and treasury.
- Credibility and judgement to operate at executive and trustee level.
- Experience in education or the charity sector is advantageous but not essential.
How to Apply
In order to apply, please complete the online application form and submit a covering letter which sets out your interest in the role and encapsulates the aspects of your experience relevant to the required criteria. Include current salary details and the names and addresses of two referees. The closing date for applications is 9 am on Wednesday 22 April 2026. First‑round interviews will take place at Trust Office on Thursday 30 April 2026.
Our Commitment
The GDST is committed to diversity, inclusion and real change. We want every colleague to feel valued, respected and supported, and we actively welcome applications from all backgrounds and communities.
Safeguarding Statement
The Girls’ Day School Trust is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, and applicants must be willing to undergo child protection checks appropriate to the post, including online searches and checks with past employers and the Disclosure and Barring Service.
Deputy CFO employer: GDST (The Girls' Day School Trust)
Contact Detail:
GDST (The Girls' Day School Trust) Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Deputy CFO
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the finance and education sectors. We all know that sometimes it’s not just what you know, but who you know. Attend industry events or webinars to meet potential employers and get your name out there.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the GDST inside out. Understand their mission, values, and recent developments. We want you to show them that you’re not just another candidate; you’re genuinely interested in their work and ready to contribute to their vision.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your pitch! You’ll want to clearly articulate how your experience aligns with the Deputy CFO role. We suggest rehearsing answers to common interview questions and preparing examples of your past achievements that demonstrate your financial leadership skills.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to follow up after your interview! A quick thank-you email can go a long way in leaving a positive impression. We believe this shows your enthusiasm for the role and keeps you on their radar as they make their decision.
We think you need these skills to ace Deputy CFO
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion: When writing your covering letter, let us see your enthusiasm for the role and the mission of GDST. Share why you’re excited about the opportunity to lead financial operations in a leading education charity.
Tailor Your Experience: Make sure to highlight your relevant experience in financial leadership and governance. We want to see how your background aligns with the responsibilities outlined in the job description, so be specific!
Be Clear and Concise: Keep your application straightforward and to the point. Use clear language and avoid jargon where possible. We appreciate a well-structured application that’s easy to read and understand.
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way to ensure we receive all your details correctly. Plus, it shows you’re tech-savvy and ready to embrace our digital approach.
How to prepare for a job interview at GDST (The Girls' Day School Trust)
✨Know Your Numbers
As a Deputy CFO, you'll need to demonstrate your financial acumen. Brush up on key financial metrics and be ready to discuss how you've used data to drive decision-making in previous roles. This shows you can provide the high-quality insight the GDST is looking for.
✨Understand the Organisation
Research the Girls' Day School Trust thoroughly. Familiarise yourself with their mission, values, and recent initiatives. Being able to articulate how your experience aligns with their goals will set you apart and show your genuine interest in the role.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect questions that assess your problem-solving skills and ability to balance financial control with a solutions-focused approach. Think of examples from your past where you've successfully navigated complex financial challenges and be ready to share those stories.
✨Showcase Leadership Skills
The role involves leading high-performing finance teams, so be prepared to discuss your leadership style. Share specific examples of how you've developed teams and driven continuous improvement in financial processes, as this will resonate well with the interviewers.