At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead financial planning and provide expert advice to improve school outcomes.
- Company: Join L.E.A.D. Academy Trust, a values-driven organisation focused on excellence.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, generous pension, and comprehensive wellbeing support.
- Other info: Collaborative culture with opportunities for professional development across 27 academies.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in education and influence strategic decisions.
- Qualifications: Part-qualified accountant with strong financial expertise and strategic insight.
The predicted salary is between 40000 - 50000 £ per year.
Make a Difference Where It Matters Most
At L.E.A.D. Academy Trust, we are driven by a simple but powerful mission: to lead, empower, achieve and drive excellence for every child. We are now seeking a highly skilled and motivated Regional Finance Business Partner to play a pivotal role in initially supporting two of our secondary academies - Noel-Baker Academy (Derby) and The Birley Academy (Sheffield) on their journey of improvement and sustained success. This is more than a finance role. It is an opportunity to influence strategic decision‑making, strengthen financial sustainability, and directly contribute to improving outcomes for young people across our Trust.
About the Role
- Act as the lead finance professional across two of our secondary academies, working closely with Headteachers and senior leaders to provide expert financial insight and challenge.
- Lead strategic financial planning, including 3-year budget setting and forecasting.
- Provide clear, actionable financial advice to support school improvement priorities.
- Oversee robust financial management and compliance, ensuring best value and efficiency.
- Act as a trusted partner to leaders, helping them understand the financial implications of decisions.
- Drive consistency and excellence in financial systems and processes across schools.
This role is central to ensuring that financial resources are used effectively to support high-quality education and improved pupil outcomes.
About You
- Be a part-qualified accountant (or equivalent experience) with strong financial expertise.
- Have experience of working in a complex, multi-site or education environment (desirable).
- Demonstrate the ability to translate financial data into meaningful insight for non-finance leaders.
- Be confident in challenging and supporting senior stakeholders.
- Be highly organised, able to manage competing priorities and meet deadlines.
- Show a proactive, solution‑focused mindset with the ability to drive improvement.
Most importantly, you will share our commitment to making a tangible difference to the lives of children and young people.
Why Join L.E.A.D. Academy Trust?
- A values-driven organisation focused on leadership, empowerment, achievement and continuous improvement.
- The opportunity to work across schools and influence Trust-wide strategy and impact.
- A strong culture of collaboration, support and professional development.
- Access to high-quality CPD through the L.E.A.D. Teaching School Hub.
- A competitive salary and generous local government pension.
- A comprehensive wellbeing offer including Employee Assistance Programme, online GP, physiotherapy and occupational health support.
Join Us
This is a unique opportunity for an ambitious finance professional to step into a role where they can shape financial strategy, influence leadership decisions, and make a real difference to schools and communities. If you are looking for a role where your expertise will have visible impact and purpose, we would love to hear from you.
Safeguarding Information
L.E.A.D Academy Trust is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of young people and vulnerable adults, and all appointments are subject to enhanced Disclosure & Barring Service (DBS) checks and satisfactory references. L.E.A.D Academy Trust is also committed to promoting equality, challenging discrimination and developing community cohesion. We welcome applications from all sections of the community.
Regional Finance Business Partner - Hybrid (Flexible working options may be considered) in Nottingham employer: LEAD Academy Trust
At L.E.A.D. Academy Trust, we pride ourselves on being a values-driven organisation that prioritises leadership, empowerment, and continuous improvement. As a Regional Finance Business Partner, you will not only enjoy a competitive salary and generous pension but also benefit from a strong culture of collaboration and professional development, with access to high-quality CPD through our Teaching School Hub. Join us in making a tangible difference in the lives of over 11,500 pupils while enjoying flexible working options and a comprehensive wellbeing offer.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Regional Finance Business Partner - Hybrid (Flexible working options may be considered) in Nottingham
✨Tap into Campus Networks
If you're still in uni, don’t forget to engage with your campus's career services and attend finance-related events. Banks often do presentations and recruitment drives on campus, so put yourself out there and make use of these opportunities to show off your passion for the field.
✨Get Certified
Consider pursuing relevant certifications like the CFA or ACCA while you’re job hunting. They not only beef up your CV but also connect you with professional bodies which can lead to networking opportunities and even job openings in banking and financial services.
✨Connect on Professional Platforms
Join finance-focused groups on platforms like LinkedIn and engage in discussions. This can really help you stand out from the crowd, allowing potential employers to see your knowledge and interest in industry trends. Plus, you might stumble upon job postings shared exclusively within the group.
✨Apply Directly and Be Proactive
Don’t shy away from reaching out directly to firms like LEAD Academy Trust. Use their websites and apply through them, but also consider following up with a polite email to express your enthusiasm. Being proactive can make a huge difference in getting noticed in the competitive financial services sector.
We think you need these skills to ace Regional Finance Business Partner - Hybrid (Flexible working options may be considered) in Nottingham
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Numbers!:In the banking and financial services world, quantifiable achievements are key. Make sure your CV highlights your grades in relevant subjects, any financial certifications you hold, and specific projects where you've delivered measurable results. Employers love to see how your skills translate into real-world success.
Tailor Your Cover Letter to the Role:When applying for a full-time position, your cover letter should make a direct connection between your experience and the job description. Don't just state your enthusiasm for finance—dive into how your background in banking or financial analysis sets you apart. Let your passion shine through while being specific about what you can bring to LEAD Academy Trust.
Include Relevant Financial Software Experience:If you've worked with financial modelling tools or software like Excel, SAP, or specific analytical tools during your studies or internships, bring that up! Highlighting your proficiency can really make your application pop and show you're ready to hit the ground running in a full-time role.
Research and Reflect:Before hitting that 'apply' button on LEAD Academy Trust's website, do a little digging. Look up their recent projects, values, and culture. Reflecting their ethos in your application can make a huge difference and show you’re genuinely interested in being part of the team!
How to prepare for a job interview at LEAD Academy Trust
✨Brush Up on Financial Analysis Skills
Make sure you're well-versed in financial concepts and analytical techniques relevant to banking and financial services. Get comfortable with tools like Excel for modelling or financial forecasting, as technical questions in this area are common during interviews with LEAD Academy Trust.
✨Prepare for Case Studies
Expect to tackle case studies that demonstrate your problem-solving skills in real-world banking scenarios. Familiarise yourself with the types of problems you might face—think risk assessments or investment evaluations—and be ready to articulate your thought process clearly.
✨Show Your Passion for Finance
Since this is a full-time position, employers at LEAD Academy Trust will be keen to see your genuine interest in finance. Be prepared to discuss recent industry trends or news articles that excite you, showcasing your enthusiasm and engagement with the field.
✨Network with Industry Professionals
Before your interview, reach out to current or former LEAD Academy Trust employees on platforms like LinkedIn. They'll offer unique insights into the company's culture and the interview process, which can give us a delightful edge in showcasing a good fit for the team.
