Chief Financial Officer

Chief Financial Officer

Full-Time 80000 - 100000 £ / year (est.) No working from home possible
QUEEN ELIZABETH SCHOOL, KIRKBY LONSDALE

At a Glance

  • Tasks: Lead financial strategy and ensure compliance for a growing educational trust.
  • Company: Lunesdale Learning Trust, committed to making a difference in education.
  • Benefits: Competitive salary, opportunity to shape financial operations, and contribute to community growth.
  • Other info: Dynamic role with a focus on safeguarding and promoting children's welfare.
  • Why this job: Join at an exciting growth phase and make a real impact on educational funding.
  • Qualifications: Qualified accountant with leadership experience and a strategic mindset.

The predicted salary is between 80000 - 100000 £ per year.

Chief Financial Officer (CFO)

We are currently seeking a values‑driven Chief Financial Officer (CFO) to be responsible for the financial development and sustainability of Lunesdale Learning Trust.

The CFO will drive internal excellence by providing strong financial leadership, guidance and stewardship to deliver the organisation’s financial objectives.

The role involves working directly with the Trust Leader (CEO), the Chief Operations Officer (COO), our Trust Board and our central team, and it is vital to the financial stability and growth of the Trust which supports pupils, colleagues and school communities.

The successful candidate will be joining our Trust at an exciting time of growth, moving from circa £12 M pa turnover to circa £50 M pa, with the future planned onboarding of three additional secondary schools and a primary school, in Phase 1 of our growth strategy.

Key Responsibilities

  • Provide financial leadership, guidance and stewardship across the Trust.
  • Ensure outstanding financial compliance and governance in line with the Academy Trust Handbook and annual accounts directives.
  • Support the leadership and finance staff within the central team and at school level.
  • Lead the financial management team, maintaining accuracy and meeting key deadlines.
  • Develop and maintain robust, accurate and sustainable financial management and monitoring systems.
  • Project accurate cash‑flow forecasts and respond effectively to changes in educational funding.
  • Support the Trust’s ambitious growth strategy and expand financial operations accordingly.

Qualifications & Skills

  • Experienced and fully qualified accountant with a proven track record in leading and developing a team.
  • Values‑driven and strategic problem‑solver, committed to making a difference.
  • Strong working knowledge of financial management systems and the ability to project accurate cash‑flow forecasts.
  • Analytical approach, able to respond effectively to the changing landscape of educational funding.
  • Ability to prioritise workload, maintain accuracy and meet deadlines.
  • Experience in establishing robust, accurate and sustainable financial systems for growth.
  • Knowledge of the education sector is preferred but not essential.
  • Contact
  • Mr David Waugh, Executive Headteacher and Trust Leader

EEO Statement

The Lunesdale Learning Trust is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare and safety of children and expects all staff to share this commitment.

All successful candidates will be required to undergo an Enhanced Disclosure from the Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS), other statutory required clearance and reference checks with previous employers.

#J-18808-Ljbffr

Chief Financial Officer employer: QUEEN ELIZABETH SCHOOL, KIRKBY LONSDALE

Lunesdale Learning Trust is an exceptional employer, offering a collaborative and values-driven work culture that prioritises the growth and development of its employees. As a Strategic CFO, you will play a pivotal role in shaping the financial future of a dynamic education trust, with ample opportunities for professional advancement while contributing to meaningful educational outcomes in the community. Located in a supportive environment, the Trust fosters innovation and teamwork, making it an ideal place for passionate individuals looking to make a significant impact.

QUEEN ELIZABETH SCHOOL, KIRKBY LONSDALE

Contact Details:

QUEEN ELIZABETH SCHOOL, KIRKBY LONSDALE Recruitment Team

We think you need these skills to ace Chief Financial Officer

Financial Leadership
Financial Compliance
Governance
Team Development
Financial Management Systems
Cash-Flow Forecasting
Analytical Skills