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- Tasks: Lead finance and HR operations, manage budgets, and oversee payroll.
- Company: Join Gosfield School, a vibrant independent school in Essex dedicated to student welfare.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary and the chance to work in a supportive team environment.
- Why this job: Be part of a leadership team making a real impact on students' lives.
- Qualifications: Must have accountancy qualifications and experience with Sage or similar systems.
- Other info: Applications are encouraged early as positions may be filled before the deadline.
The predicted salary is between 48000 - 84000 £ per year.
Gosfield School, a thriving Independent School near Halstead in Essex, is seeking to appoint a Bursar to join the school’s leadership team. The ideal candidate will be an experienced management accountant with an exceptional work ethic and the flexibility required to work within a small non-teaching team and lead the finance team. The successful applicant will sit on the school’s Finance, Grounds and Premises and Safety and Compliance Committees and will be a member of and work closely with the school’s Senior Leadership Team. Experience with Sage or similar accounting systems and a formal accountancy qualification are essential.
Finance Responsibilities:
- Budget Management and Forecasting
- Financial Accounting
- Production of Management Accounts
- Treasury Management
- Financial Compliance
- Procurement and Expenditure
- Oversee Payroll and Fee Billing
- Oversee stock control
- Overseeing the school uniform shop
Bursarial Duties will also be undertaken or overseen by the successful applicant. These include liaison with external HR advisors, working closely with the school's admissions team, employment contract lead and IT and Estates teams. Close liaison with the school's SLT when parental issues arise is also an expectation.
Gosfield School is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children. Applicants must be willing to undergo child protection screening, including checks with past employers and the DBS.
For details and an application form, contact Mrs Sara Bowles, EA to Principal. Deadline for applications: Noon, Friday 28 March 2025. Interviews: w/c 31 March 2025. Start Date: June 1st or by negotiation.
*Please Note to avoid disappointment applicants are encouraged to apply prior to the deadline as we reserve the right to consider applications as they are received and to appoint prior to the deadline.
Seniority level: Director
Employment type: Full-time
Job function: Finance and Sales
Industries: Education
Head of Finance and HR [Bursar] employer: Gosfield School
Contact Detail:
Gosfield School Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Finance and HR [Bursar]
✨Tip Number 1
Network with professionals in the education sector, especially those who have experience in finance and HR roles. Attend relevant events or join online forums to connect with individuals who might provide insights or even referrals for the Bursar position at Gosfield School.
✨Tip Number 2
Familiarise yourself with the specific financial and HR challenges faced by independent schools. Understanding these nuances will help you demonstrate your knowledge during interviews and show that you're well-prepared for the role.
✨Tip Number 3
Research Gosfield School's values and mission. Tailor your discussions to reflect how your experience aligns with their goals, particularly in safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, which is a key aspect of their ethos.
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare to discuss your experience with Sage or similar accounting systems in detail. Be ready to provide examples of how you've used these tools to improve financial processes or compliance in previous roles, as this will be crucial for the Bursar position.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Finance and HR [Bursar]
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Thoroughly read the job description for the Head of Finance and HR position at Gosfield School. Make sure you understand the key responsibilities, required qualifications, and the skills needed to excel in this role.
Tailor Your CV: Customise your CV to highlight your experience as a management accountant and any relevant skills related to finance and HR. Emphasise your familiarity with Sage or similar accounting systems, as well as your formal accountancy qualifications.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your passion for education and your ability to lead a finance team. Mention specific examples from your past experiences that demonstrate your work ethic and flexibility in a non-teaching environment.
Highlight Relevant Experience: In your application, make sure to detail your experience with budget management, financial compliance, and any previous roles that involved liaising with external advisors or working closely with senior leadership teams.
How to prepare for a job interview at Gosfield School
✨Showcase Your Financial Expertise
As a Head of Finance and HR, it's crucial to demonstrate your deep understanding of financial management. Be prepared to discuss your experience with budget management, forecasting, and financial compliance in detail. Use specific examples from your past roles to illustrate your capabilities.
✨Highlight Leadership Skills
This role involves leading a small team and working closely with the Senior Leadership Team. Make sure to share instances where you've successfully led teams or projects, showcasing your ability to collaborate and communicate effectively with various stakeholders.
✨Familiarise Yourself with Sage and Similar Systems
Since experience with Sage or similar accounting systems is essential, brush up on your knowledge of these tools. Be ready to discuss how you've used them in previous positions and how you can leverage them to improve financial processes at Gosfield School.
✨Understand the School's Values and Commitments
Gosfield School is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children. Familiarise yourself with their values and be prepared to discuss how your personal values align with theirs, especially regarding child protection and working within an educational environment.
