Head of Finance in London

We are looking for an experienced Head of Finance who will be responsible for overseeing the financial and administrative functions of Leiths Education and be the business partner to the Senior Leadership Team. This role plays a pivotal role in managing day-to-day financial operations, ensuring compliance with statutory requirements, and providing financial guidance to the CEO and Senior Leadership Team. This role demands strong technical accounting skills, analytical skills, excellent attention to detail and the ability to contribute to strategic decision-making processes.

Leiths is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of young people and expects all staff to share this commitment. Applicants will be required to undergo child protection screening appropriate to the post including online checks, checks with past employers and the Disclosure and Barring Service.

Hours of work: Full Time (9am – 5pm, Monday to Friday)

Location: Hybrid (Remote/London)

PURPOSE OF THE JOB

The Head of Finance is responsible for overseeing the financial and administrative functions of Leiths and be the business partner to the senior leadership team. They will manage day-to-day financial operations, ensure compliance with statutory requirements, and provide financial guidance to the CEO and Senior Leadership Team. This role demands strong technical accounting skills, excellent attention to detail, and the ability to contribute to strategic decision-making processes.

KEY WORKING RELATIONSHIPS

Reporting to: Commercial Director primary and a secondary line to the CEO

MAIN RESPONSIBILITIES

• Oversee all financial transactions, ensuring accuracy and compliance with internal controls.
• Prepare monthly management accounts and associated variance analysis with a written report.
• Conduct analysis of business unit Profit & Loss (P&L) accounts and provide insights to support decision-making.
• Manage and review the purchase ledger, ensuring timely posting of invoices and supplier payments.
• Prepare and review annual accounts for audits when required and liaise with external accountants.
• Manage cash flow forecasting.
• Manage and review cash book transactions with bank statements.
• Manage and review course revenue, reconciling bookings and payments.
• Manage and review credit control procedures, including managing Aged Debtors and outstanding debts.
• Manage and review Aged Creditors and suppliers' suggested payments biweekly.
• Complete and review monthly balance sheet reconciliations.
• Management of payroll and pensions on a monthly basis.
• Ensure a sound overall control environment.

Financial Planning & Business Support:

• Prepare business plans, budgets, and financial forecasts in line with the company's strategic objectives.
• Provide financial planning, analysis, and advice to CEO and Senior Leadership Team to drive growth and profitability.
• Conduct financial modelling and cost analysis to support pricing strategies, profitability improvement, and waste reduction initiatives.
• Work closely with the Commercial Director to track spending across the business.

Regulatory Compliance & Reporting:

• Ensure compliance with statutory requirements regarding the company's financial affairs.
• Prepare and submit VAT returns, ensuring compliance with HMRC regulations.
• Manage payroll processing, including pension administration, ensuring compliance with PAYE regulations.
• Support Head of Procurement and Facilities with insurance and risk management, liaising with insurers to ensure adequate coverage.
• Prepare and present regular financial reports and updates for the board and senior management, including reviewing and updating KPIs.

Systems Administration & Controls:

• Oversee the administration of financial systems such as Sage 50 Professional, ensuring data integrity and liaising with IT consultants as needed.
• Oversee the management and upgrade of financial systems (e.g. Xero, Sage).
• Oversee the administration of Pleo for managing business expenses and travel mileage as well as Trainline, Uber and Premier Inn corporate accounts.
• Maintain and reconcile the fixed asset register, ensuring accuracy in asset management.
• Review and enhance financial systems, processes, and internal controls to ensure efficiency and compliance.

Cost & Contract Management:

• Manage and review course costings, food costings, and standard costs, and updating as necessary to reflect changes in market conditions.
• Oversee the management of leases, contracts, and other financial commitments.
• Provide support to the Head of Procurement & Facilities in negotiating supplier terms and managing procurement processes.

Team & Stakeholder Management:

• Manage the Assistant Management Accountant, overseeing their professional development and ensuring efficient support for financial operations.
• Producing high-level reports for the CEO and Senior Leadership Team that clearly communicate the organisation's financial position and support informed, strategic decision-making.
• Foster a collaborative environment, partnering with non-financial stakeholders to provide clear financial insights and guidance.

Ad Hoc Responsibilities:

• Undertake ad hoc projects and initiatives as assigned by management.
• Maintain up-to-date training and DBS checks, Certifications (including Health & Safety, Food Hygiene, Allergies, PREVENT, First Aid, Child Protection and other relevant areas as required by H.R.).
• Update Leiths policies and procedures according to the organisation directory and regulatory requirements.
• Attend and contribute to monthly management meetings as part of the management team.

Business Advocacy:

• Act in the best interests of Leiths, identifying opportunities for improvement, waste reduction, and cost savings.
• Adhere to all relevant company policies and legal regulations, particularly regarding health and safety in the workplace.

General:

• Respond in person, by telephone or email to staff, students, visitors in a professional and customer focused manner.
• Provide a courteous and knowledgeable point of contact for people both within and outside Leiths responding in person, by telephone or email to staff, students, and visitors.
• Comply with all relevant School policies and procedures including Health and Safety and Child Protection.

PERSON SPECIFICATION

• In-depth knowledge of accounting principles and practices.
• Understanding of financial regulations, including VAT, PAYE, and pension requirements.
• Proficiency in financial software systems such as Sage.
• Understanding of cost management principles and pricing strategies.
• Awareness of current trends and developments in accounting and finance.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent attention to detail and accuracy in financial records.
• Advanced Excel skills for financial analysis and reporting.
• Effective communication skills, both written and verbal.
• Ability to prioritise tasks and manage time effectively.
• Proven experience in accounting and financial management roles.
• Experience with payroll processing and pensions administration.
• Exposure to cost management and pricing strategies.
• Experience with regulatory compliance and audits.
• Experience using Sage 50.
• Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field.
• Integrity and ethical conduct in financial matters.
• Proactive approach to problem-solving and decision-making.
• Adaptability and willingness to learn new skills.
• Commitment to teamwork and collaboration.
• Knowledge of the education or hospitality industry.
• Negotiation skills for supplier and vendor management.
• Experience in the education or hospitality industry.
• Additional certifications or training in relevant areas such as taxation or financial analysis.
• Continuing professional development in accounting and finance.
• Innovation and creativity in process improvement initiatives.
• Resilience and ability to handle pressure in a fast-paced setting.

This position requires a Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check, which will reveal any unspent convictions. A criminal record may not necessarily be a bar to employment, as any decision will be treated on its merits and individual circumstances subject to Leiths' overriding obligation to protect the students in its charge and the safety of Leiths' staff. All staff have a responsibility and duty of care to safeguard and promote the welfare of pupils. Staff must be aware of the systems within Leiths which support safeguarding and must act in accordance with the School's Safeguarding & Child Protection policy and Code of Conduct. Staff will receive appropriate child protection training which is regularly updated.

Applicants are required to submit these two forms when applying for a post with us. All candidates must read the school's policies before applying for a position within the school.