At a Glance
- Tasks: Support daily financial operations and ensure accuracy in all processes.
- Company: A community-focused secondary school in Manchester with strong leadership.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, term-time only, and a supportive work environment.
- Why this job: Join a dynamic team and contribute to the smooth running of a thriving school.
- Qualifications: Experience in finance or administration with strong numerical skills.
- Other info: Ideal for detail-oriented individuals who enjoy problem-solving and collaboration.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 42000 £ per year.
A highly regarded and community-focused secondary school in Manchester is seeking an enthusiastic School Finance Officer to join their Business & Operations team from January. This is an excellent opportunity for someone who enjoys financial administration, problem-solving, and contributing to the smooth running of a large, dynamic school.
The Role
As a School Finance Officer, you will be responsible for supporting the school’s daily financial operations and ensuring accuracy, compliance, and efficiency in all financial processes. Working closely with the School Business Manager and senior leaders, you will help ensure that the school remains financially robust and well-organised. Your responsibilities will include:
- Processing invoices, purchase orders, supplier statements, and financial transactions
- Supporting departmental budget holders with reports, updates, and financial guidance
- Maintaining accurate financial records in line with audit and statutory requirements
- Managing reconciliations, banking, and income streams, including ParentPay and fundraising income
- Supporting the administration of grants, bursaries, and designated funding allocations
- Preparing documentation for internal and external audits
- Supporting payroll checks and maintaining financial HR records
- Communicating professionally with suppliers, trust finance teams, and school staff
- Assisting with financial planning linked to school trips, events, and educational activities
- Ensuring compliance with ESFA, DfE, and trust finance regulations
This role is ideal for someone who enjoys structured processes, values accuracy, and appreciates working in a friendly and collaborative office environment.
School Information
The school is:
- High-achieving and deeply embedded within the local community
- Supported by strong leadership with excellent financial oversight
- Known for efficient systems and a professional administrative culture
- Committed to staff development and continuous improvement
- Praised by staff for its supportive atmosphere and positive workplace relationships
Who Should Apply?
This role is suited to:
- Experienced school finance professionals
- Administrators with strong numerical and analytical skills
- Candidates confident in using finance systems and spreadsheets
- Individuals who enjoy multitasking, problem-solving, and contributing to operational success
You will need:
- Excellent attention to detail
- Strong communication and interpersonal skills
- High levels of discretion and integrity
- Strong IT skills and willingness to learn school-specific systems
Salary
Competitive salary; term-time only.
Application
Please submit your CV promptly. Early applications are encouraged.
School Finance Officer – Manchester employer: Marchant Recruitment
Contact Detail:
Marchant Recruitment Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land School Finance Officer – Manchester
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the education sector, especially those who work 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. Knowing their values and challenges will help you tailor your answers and show that you're genuinely interested in contributing to their success.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your problem-solving skills! Be ready to discuss how you've tackled financial issues in the past. Use specific examples to demonstrate your analytical abilities and attention to detail.
✨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 are proactive and engaged with our community.
We think you need these skills to ace School Finance Officer – Manchester
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Financial Skills: Make sure to highlight your financial administration experience in your CV. We want to see how you've handled budgets, invoices, and financial records in the past. Use specific examples to demonstrate your attention to detail and problem-solving skills.
Tailor Your Application: Don’t just send a generic CV! We love it when applicants tailor their applications to our school’s needs. Mention how your skills align with the responsibilities listed in the job description, like managing reconciliations or supporting payroll checks.
Keep It Professional: While we appreciate a friendly tone, remember that this is a professional role. Ensure your CV and cover letter are well-structured and free from typos. We’re looking for someone who communicates effectively, so let that shine through in your application!
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us quickly and efficiently. Plus, you’ll find all the details you need about the role and our school there!
How to prepare for a job interview at Marchant Recruitment
✨Know Your Numbers
As a School Finance Officer, you'll be dealing with financial data daily. Brush up on your financial terminology and be ready to discuss how you've handled budgets or reconciliations in the past. This shows you’re not just familiar with numbers but can also apply them effectively.
✨Showcase Your Problem-Solving Skills
Prepare examples of how you've tackled financial challenges before. Whether it was resolving discrepancies or managing tight deadlines, having specific scenarios ready will demonstrate your analytical skills and ability to think on your feet.
✨Understand the School's Financial Environment
Research the school’s financial structure and any recent news related to education funding. Being knowledgeable about the context in which the school operates will help you engage in meaningful conversations during the interview.
✨Communicate Clearly and Professionally
Since you'll be liaising with various stakeholders, practice articulating your thoughts clearly. Use straightforward language when discussing complex financial concepts, and remember to listen actively to the interviewers’ questions.