Ivy Rock Partners is delighted to be supporting a well-established and growing Academy Trust in London with the appointment of an Interim Head of Finance on a 9–12 month contract. There is a part-time option if preferred.
This is an excellent opportunity for an experienced finance leader to join a values-driven education organisation at a pivotal time. Reporting directly to the Chief Finance Officer, you will lead the finance function, providing both strategic and operational financial leadership across the Trust.
The successful candidate will play a key role in ensuring robust financial management, compliance, reporting, budgeting and stakeholder engagement, while supporting the wider leadership team in delivering high-quality outcomes.
The Role
Key responsibilities will include:
- Leading the Trust's finance function and managing the central finance team
- Overseeing budget setting, forecasting and financial planning across the Trust
- Producing high-quality monthly management accounts and financial reporting
- Leading the preparation of statutory accounts and coordinating external audit processes
- Managing cashflow, investments, banking arrangements and financial controls
- Supporting procurement, contract management and value-for-money initiatives
- Providing financial insight and analysis to senior leaders, trustees and academy leaders
- Supporting organisational growth and strategic projects
- Acting as a trusted advisor to the executive leadership team on all financial matters
About You
We are seeking a qualified accountant (ACA, ACCA, CIMA or equivalent) (or qualified by experience if you have previously worked in a schools environment before) with a proven track record of operating at a senior finance level.
The ideal candidate will bring:
- Significant experience in financial leadership, management accounting and statutory reporting
- Experience leading and developing finance teams
- Strong stakeholder management skills and the ability to influence senior leaders
- Excellent analytical, planning and organisational capabilities
- Experience within the education sector, ideally within an Academy Trust environment
- Knowledge of academy funding and regulatory requirements would be highly advantageous
- Experience of academy finance systems and education sector reporting requirements is desirable
