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- Tasks: Lead financial operations and ensure strategic resource management for the Academy.
- Company: Stratford School Academy, dedicated to excellence and sustainability.
- Benefits: Highly competitive salary, excellent pension scheme, and autonomy in decision-making.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on students' futures while leading a dedicated finance team.
- Qualifications: Professional accounting qualification and extensive senior financial management experience required.
- Other info: Opportunity for strategic influence and career growth in a supportive environment.
The predicted salary is between 48000 - 72000 £ per year.
This Secondary School, located in Newham, is seeking a highly skilled and strategic Head of Finance to join our senior support team, starting in January 2026. This is a crucial role, working directly under the Chief Financial Officer (CFO) to ensure the Academy's long-term financial stability and strategic use of resources.
As Head of Finance, you will be responsible for overseeing financial operations, managing compliance and regularity, and mitigating financial risk. Key responsibilities include:
- Leading the comprehensive annual budget preparation, including estimates, forecasting, and projections.
- Producing timely and accurate Budget Monitoring reports monthly for Trustees, Senior Leadership Team (SLT), and budget holders.
- Managing Treasury activities, including cash flow analysis and investment activity.
- Providing clear financial guidance and support to all budget holders.
- Line managing the Finance Manager who oversees the team responsible for payment processing and payroll checking.
Experience and Qualifications
- A professional accounting qualification (e.g., ICAEW, ACCA, CIMA, or CIPFA) and membership of a recognised professional body is essential.
- Extensive experience at a senior financial manager level, including proven success in team leadership.
- Desirable: Previous experience working in an Academy Trust or educational setting.
- Desirable: Knowledge of charity law and governance.
School Information
Stratford School Academy is committed to operational excellence and financial sustainability. We offer a highly competitive Inner London salary scale commensurate with a senior leadership position. This role provides high levels of autonomy and strategic influence, ensuring the best possible outcomes for our students.
Application Details
To apply for this Head of Finance position, please send your most up-to-date CV as soon as possible. Early applications are warmly encouraged.
Head of Finance – Strategic Finance & Operations – Newham employer: Marchant Recruitment
Contact Detail:
Marchant Recruitment Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Finance – Strategic Finance & Operations – Newham
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the education sector, especially those who have experience in finance roles. A friendly chat can lead to insider info about job openings or even a referral.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the school and its financial operations. Understand their budget priorities and be ready to discuss how your skills can help them achieve their goals. Show them you’re not just another candidate!
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your pitch! You’ll want to clearly articulate your experience in financial management and team leadership. Make it engaging and relevant to the role of Head of Finance – they need to see your passion for education finance.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take the initiative to connect with us directly.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Finance – Strategic Finance & Operations – Newham
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV reflects the skills and experiences that align with the Head of Finance role. Highlight your professional accounting qualifications and any relevant experience in educational settings to catch our eye!
Showcase Leadership Experience: Since this role involves leading a team, don’t forget to emphasise your previous leadership roles. Share specific examples of how you've successfully managed teams and driven financial strategies.
Be Clear and Concise: When writing your application, clarity is key! Use straightforward language and structure your information logically. This helps us quickly see why you’re the perfect fit for the position.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to submit your application through our website. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us directly and allows you to keep track of your application status easily!
How to prepare for a job interview at Marchant Recruitment
✨Know Your Numbers
As a Head of Finance, you'll need to demonstrate your financial acumen. Brush up on key financial metrics and be ready to discuss how you've successfully managed budgets and forecasts in the past. Prepare specific examples that showcase your ability to lead financial operations.
✨Understand the Academy's Vision
Familiarise yourself with Stratford School Academy's mission and values. Be prepared to explain how your strategic financial management aligns with their goals. This shows that you’re not just about numbers but also about supporting the educational mission.
✨Prepare for Compliance Questions
Given the importance of compliance and governance in this role, anticipate questions around financial regulations and risk management. Think of scenarios where you've successfully navigated compliance challenges and be ready to share those experiences.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
You'll be leading a team, so highlight your experience in team management and mentorship. Prepare to discuss your leadership style and how you've developed your team's capabilities in previous roles. This will demonstrate your readiness to take on a senior strategic position.
