At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead financial control, management accounting, and payroll to support educational outcomes.
- Company: Lion Academy Trust, dedicated to enhancing pupil success and community impact.
- Benefits: Generous annual leave, local government pension, and unlimited professional development opportunities.
- Other info: Join a supportive team committed to safeguarding and promoting welfare.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in education while advancing your finance career.
- Qualifications: Qualified accountant with strong financial expertise and a passion for public service.
The predicted salary is between 50000 - 60000 £ per year.
At Lion Academy Trust (LAT), we take pride in providing an outstanding environment for pupils so they can succeed in their academic and general development. We are seeking a values‑led, technically strong, and experienced finance professional to join our senior leadership team. As a senior finance leader, you will be responsible for ensuring the Trust maintains a strong, reliable, and well‑evidenced financial control environment, accurate management accounting, and effective payroll and pension assurance. You will turn Trust priorities into deliverable finance programmes, providing high‑quality financial insight that directly supports educational outcomes across all our schools. If you are a qualified accountant who balances a meticulous eye for numbers with a passion for public service and making a difference to pupils, we want to hear from you.
Benefits:
- An opportunity to use your skills and knowledge to make a real difference to the pupils within our community.
- Annual leave entitlement, from 29 days, increasing to 32 days after five years (+ 8 bank holidays).
- Local Government Pension Scheme (LGPS).
- Unlimited access to CPD and career development through providers such as The National College and The Key.
- Free access to an Employee Assistance Programme providing support 24 hours a day, 7 days a week - this can include physiotherapy, legal and financial specialist support, counselling and wellbeing services.
- Perks at Work exclusive rewards and discounts programme.
- Cycle to work, technology and home salary sacrifice schemes.
Application Process:
- Application Closing Date: 16 August 2026.
- Interview dates to be arranged: Week commencing 27 August 2026, subject to candidate availability.
- NB: Suitable candidates may be interviewed before the closing date and the school reserves the right to withdraw the position if an early appointment is made. Applicants are therefore encouraged to apply early.
We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults and expect all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. The successful candidate will require two positive references from current and previous employers. The position is subject to an enhanced DBS and medical checks.
Head of Financial Control, Management Accounting and Payroll employer: LION ACADEMY TRUST
At Lion Academy Trust, we are dedicated to fostering a supportive and enriching environment for both our pupils and staff. As an employer, we offer a range of benefits including generous annual leave, access to continuous professional development, and a commitment to employee wellbeing through our Employee Assistance Programme. Joining our team means being part of a values-driven organisation where your financial expertise will directly contribute to enhancing educational outcomes in our community.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Financial Control, Management Accounting and Payroll
✨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.
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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.
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Don’t shy away from reaching out directly to firms like LION 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 Head of Financial Control, Management Accounting and Payroll
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 LION 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 LION 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 LION 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 LION 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 LION 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 LION 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.
