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- Tasks: Lead financial operations and drive excellence across schools in a collaborative team.
- Company: Flourishing Multi-Academy Trust focused on education and community impact.
- Benefits: Supportive environment, professional development, and the chance to make a difference.
- Why this job: Shape the future of education through strategic financial leadership.
- Qualifications: Qualified accountant with experience in financial management and team leadership.
- Other info: Opportunity to work in a dynamic environment with a focus on continuous improvement.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
Our client, a flourishing Multi-Academy Trust, is seeking an experienced Financial Controller to lead their finance function and drive financial excellence across their schools.
The Role: Reporting directly to the Chief Financial Officer, you'll take ownership of all financial operations across the Trust, leading a diverse and collaborative finance team. You'll be responsible for statutory reporting, budgeting, cash flow management, and ensuring compliance with DfE and ESFA requirements. This is a hands-on leadership role where you'll balance strategic financial planning with day-to-day operational excellence, working closely with school leaders to ensure financial resources support educational outcomes.
Key Responsibilities:
- Leading and developing the central finance team
- Preparing consolidated financial statements and management accounts
- Managing the annual budgeting and forecasting cycle
- Overseeing accounts payable/receivable and treasury management
- Ensuring compliance with education sector regulations and charity requirements
- Implementing robust financial systems and controls across the Trust
What You'll Need:
- Qualified accountant (ACA, ACCA, CIMA or equivalent)
- Proven experience in financial management and team leadership
- Strong understanding of MAT/education sector finance (highly desirable)
- Excellent communication skills with the ability to influence stakeholders at all levels
- A proactive, solutions-focused approach to financial management
What's on Offer: Our client offers a supportive working environment where professional development is encouraged, the chance to make a genuine difference in education, and the opportunity to work with a team that values collaboration, transparency, and continuous improvement.
HB Partners is committed to safeguarding children. This post is subject to enhanced DBS and pre-employment safeguarding checks.
Financial Controller in Luton employer: HB Partners Ltd
Contact Detail:
HB Partners Ltd Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Financial Controller in Luton
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the education sector and let them know you're on the hunt for a Financial Controller role. You never know who might have the inside scoop on opportunities or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by brushing up on your knowledge of MAT finance. Be ready to discuss how your experience aligns with the responsibilities listed in the job description, especially around budgeting and compliance. Show them you’re the perfect fit!
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t just apply and wait! Follow up on your applications through our website. A quick email or call can show your enthusiasm and keep you top of mind for hiring managers.
✨Tip Number 4
Showcase your leadership skills during interviews. Share specific examples of how you've led teams and improved financial processes in the past. This will demonstrate that you’re not just a numbers person, but a strategic leader too!
We think you need these skills to ace Financial Controller in Luton
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV reflects the skills and experiences that match the Financial Controller role. Highlight your financial management experience and any leadership roles you've had, as this will show us you're the right fit for leading our finance team.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're passionate about the role and how your background aligns with our mission. Be sure to mention your understanding of the education sector and how you can contribute to our goals.
Showcase Your Achievements: When detailing your past roles, focus on specific achievements rather than just responsibilities. Use numbers and examples to demonstrate how you've driven financial excellence in previous positions, as this will help us see your impact.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website. This ensures your application gets to us quickly and efficiently, plus you'll find all the details you need about the role and our company culture there!
How to prepare for a job interview at HB Partners Ltd
✨Know Your Numbers
As a Financial Controller, you'll need to demonstrate your expertise in financial management. Brush up on key financial metrics and be ready to discuss how you've successfully managed budgets and forecasts in the past. Use specific examples to showcase your experience.
✨Understand the Education Sector
Familiarise yourself with the financial regulations and compliance requirements specific to the education sector, especially those related to Multi-Academy Trusts. This knowledge will not only impress your interviewers but also show that you're genuinely interested in the role.
✨Showcase Leadership Skills
Since this role involves leading a finance team, be prepared to talk about your leadership style. Share examples of how you've developed teams, managed conflicts, or influenced stakeholders. Highlight your proactive approach to problem-solving and collaboration.
✨Prepare Questions
Interviews are a two-way street! Prepare insightful questions about the Trust's financial strategies, challenges they face, and how you can contribute to their goals. This shows your enthusiasm for the role and helps you assess if it's the right fit for you.
