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- Tasks: Lead financial strategy and operations to support educational excellence.
- Company: Horizons Specialist Academy Trust, dedicated to special educational needs.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, permanent position, and opportunity for strategic impact.
- Other info: Join a growing team committed to educational success and sustainability.
- Why this job: Shape the future of education finance and make a difference in students' lives.
- Qualifications: Proven experience in financial leadership and strategic planning.
The predicted salary is between 80000 - 80000 £ per year.
Salary: circa £80,000 (depending on experience and wider portfolio responsibilities)
Permanent, Full-time
Required for September 26
Horizons Specialist Academy Trust consists of eight academies and one sixth form across Tees Valley, Durham and North Yorkshire, serving approximately 1,000 students with a broad range of special educational needs.
Following the retirement of the current postholder, the Trust is seeking to appoint an exceptional and strategic Chief Financial Officer (CFO) to join the Executive Leadership Team. Based at Abbey Hill Academy, the CFO will play a pivotal role in shaping financial sustainability and supporting the Trust’s long-term strategic direction at an exciting stage of growth, building on strong and stable financial foundations.
Reporting to the Chief Executive and working closely with the Board of Trustees, the CFO will lead all aspects of financial strategy, planning and operations. This includes ensuring robust financial governance, delivering value for money, and enabling high-quality decision-making that supports improved outcomes for pupils.
The CFO will also lead the central finance function and contribute to wider Trust strategy, working collaboratively with senior leaders across education and operations to align financial planning with organisational priorities.
Chief Financial Officer in Harrogate employer: HORIZONS SPECIALIST ACADEMY TRUST-1
Contact Detail:
HORIZONS SPECIALIST ACADEMY TRUST-1 Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Chief Financial Officer in Harrogate
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the education sector, especially those involved with financial roles. A personal recommendation can make all the difference when you're aiming for a strategic position like CFO.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by understanding the Trust's financial landscape. Dive into their recent reports and strategies. This will not only show your interest but also help you tailor your answers to align with their goals.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your leadership skills! As a CFO, you'll be part of the Executive Leadership Team. Be ready to discuss how you've led teams in the past and how you can contribute to the Trust’s long-term strategic direction.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive about their job search!
We think you need these skills to ace Chief Financial Officer in Harrogate
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the CFO role. Highlight your experience in financial strategy and governance, and don’t forget to showcase any relevant achievements that align with the Trust’s goals.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you’re the perfect fit for the role. Mention your strategic vision and how you can contribute to the Trust’s long-term success.
Showcase Your Leadership Skills: As a CFO, leadership is key. In your application, emphasise your experience in leading finance teams and collaborating with senior leaders. We want to see how you can inspire and drive change!
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity. We can’t wait to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at HORIZONS SPECIALIST ACADEMY TRUST-1
✨Know Your Numbers
As a 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 strategic decisions in previous roles. This shows you’re not just about the numbers but also about how they impact the bigger picture.
✨Understand the Trust's Vision
Familiarise yourself with Horizons Specialist Academy Trust’s mission and values. Be prepared to articulate how your financial strategies can support their goals, especially in enhancing educational outcomes for students with special needs. This will show that you're aligned with their vision.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect questions that ask how you would handle specific financial challenges or scenarios. Think of examples from your past experience where you successfully navigated similar situations. This will help you showcase your problem-solving skills and strategic thinking.
✨Engage with the Board's Priorities
Research the current priorities of the Board of Trustees and be ready to discuss how you can contribute to those areas. Showing that you understand their concerns and are proactive about addressing them will set you apart as a candidate who is ready to hit the ground running.