At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead financial strategy and ensure compliance in a dynamic academy environment.
- Company: Join a successful academy trust making a difference in education.
- Benefits: Competitive pay, strategic leadership role, and impactful work experience.
- Other info: 6-month interim role with opportunities for hands-on leadership.
- Why this job: Shape the financial future of an academy and support educational excellence.
- Qualifications: Qualified accountant with strong finance and stakeholder management skills.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 75000 £ per year.
An opportunity has arisen for an experienced qualified interim accountant to join a successful academy on an interim basis, providing strategic financial leadership during a key period for the organisation directly to the Headteacher and working closely with Governors and the Senior Leadership Team. You will lead on financial strategy, compliance, budgeting, forecasting, audit and governance, ensuring the academy continues to operate effectively and meets all regulatory requirements.
Responsibilities
- Lead the annual budgeting and financial planning process
- Oversee monthly management accounts, cash flow forecasting and financial reporting
- Manage statutory accounts, audits and regulatory returns
- Provide strategic financial advice to senior leaders and governors
- Lead internal scrutiny, risk management and financial controls
- Ensure compliance with Academy Trust Handbook and ESFA requirements
- Oversee the finance function and support wider operational activities
- Manage key contracts and supplier relationships
About You
We are keen to hear from:
- Qualified accountants (ACA, ACCA, CIMA or CIPFA) currently operating at Finance Director, Director of Finance, Deputy Director of Finance or Head of Finance level
- Experienced School Business Managers, School Business Directors or Chief Operating Officers with significant responsibility for finance, budgeting, governance and resource management within an academy or education setting
- Finance leaders with strong stakeholder management skills and experience working with Boards, Governors or Trustees
- Professionals from academy trusts, schools, further education, higher education, public sector or not-for-profit organisations
This role would suit a hands-on leader who can quickly build relationships, provide strategic financial direction and ensure robust financial management throughout the assignment.
Interim Director of Finance - Academy Trust in Heckmondwike employer: Hays Accountancy and Finance
Join a dynamic and rapidly expanding global travel organisation that values innovation and collaboration. As a Senior Finance Business Partner, you'll enjoy a competitive salary and an attractive benefits package while working closely with senior leadership on strategic projects, fostering your professional growth in a supportive environment. With clear progression opportunities and the chance to influence business performance across multiple regions, this role offers a meaningful and rewarding career path.
Contact Details:
Hays Accountancy and Finance Recruitment Team
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