At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead financial strategy and management for a growing education trust.
- Company: Ridgeway Education Trust, dedicated to high-quality education and staff wellbeing.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, annual leave, LGPS pension, and hybrid working options.
- Other info: Join at a pivotal moment and help shape the future of our schools.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on the education of children in Didcot and beyond.
- Qualifications: Senior financial leadership experience in a complex organisation, ideally in education.
The predicted salary is between 92500 - 92500 € per year.
Ridgeway Education Trust is looking for a Chief Financial Officer. The role will be based at Didcot Girl's School, we offer hybrid working.
About Our Client
Ridgeway Education Trust is at an exciting stage of development. We are a Trust of eight schools based in and around Didcot, comprising a mix of Church of England and non-faith schools, including two secondary and six primary schools. We value the diversity of our schools alongside the strength that comes from our close geographical proximity. With an ambitious vision for the future, we plan to continue growing the Trust in the coming years. Our mission is to create excellence through high quality education for three to nineteen year olds, with strong collaboration at our heart. We believe school improvement is most effective when best practice is shared through deep professional collaboration, underpinned by trust, support and challenge. We value our people and take seriously our responsibility for staff wellbeing. Our values of ambition, integrity and leading for legacy guide our decision-making and ensure children and young people remain at the centre of all we do.
We are seeking an experienced Chief Financial Officer to join our established Executive Team and play a key role in shaping and delivering the Trust's next strategic plan and longer-term future.
Job Description
- Provide strategic leadership for the Trust's financial management, ensuring long-term sustainability, value for money and alignment with our educational priorities.
- Lead on budgeting, forecasting, management accounts and statutory reporting, presenting clear and timely financial information to our Executive, Board and the committees.
- Oversee the Trust-wide financial systems, controls, procurement and compliance with the Academy Trust Handbook and other regulatory frameworks.
- Provide strategic oversight of Human Resources and payroll, including workforce planning, affordability modelling and employment compliance.
- Lead risk management, audit, insurance and assurance processes, advising the CEO and Trustees on financial and operational risk.
The Successful Applicant
- Senior financial leadership experience, ideally as a CFO, Finance Director or Deputy in a complex, multi-site not for profit or public sector organisation.
- Strong track record of strategic financial planning, budget management and statutory reporting within a regulated environment.
- Experience of leading and developing professional finance and/or HR teams, with the credibility to operate at Board and Executive level.
- Strong understanding of governance, risk management and value-for-money principles; academies or education sector experience desirable but not essential.
What's on Offer
- Competitive salary ranging from £90,000 to £95,000 per annum.
- Additional benefits including annual leave and LGPS pension.
- Opportunity to influence the financial direction of a meaningful organisation.
This is an opportunity to join the Trust at an important point in its journey. The role carries real purpose, with the chance to contribute positively to the education and experiences of children and young people across Didcot and the surrounding area.
Ridgeway Education Trust is committed to safeguarding, equality and promoting the welfare of children and expects staff working in all its schools to share this commitment. The successful applicant will be subject to satisfactory enhanced DBS, references and pre-employment safeguarding checks. The possession of a criminal record will not necessarily prevent an applicant from obtaining a post. All cases are considered confidentially and according to the nature of the role and information disclosed.
Please be aware that you will be required to bring proof of right to work in the UK and photographic ID, as applicable, to interview and online searches may be made for shortlisted candidates, as part of due diligence checks.
Chief Financial Officer in Didcot employer: Ridgeway Education Trust
Ridgeway Education Trust is an exceptional employer, offering a competitive salary and a commitment to staff wellbeing within a collaborative and supportive work culture. Located in Didcot, the Trust provides unique opportunities for professional growth and the chance to make a meaningful impact on the education of children and young people in the community. With a focus on ambition, integrity, and legacy, employees are empowered to shape the future of education while enjoying the benefits of hybrid working and a strong pension scheme.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Chief Financial Officer in Didcot
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the education sector and let them know you're on the hunt for a CFO role. You never know who might have the inside scoop on opportunities at Ridgeway Education Trust or similar organisations.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by brushing up on your knowledge of financial management in the education sector. Familiarise yourself with the specific challenges faced by multi-site trusts like Ridgeway, so you can showcase your expertise and strategic vision.
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t underestimate the power of a strong online presence! Update your LinkedIn profile to reflect your experience and skills relevant to the CFO role. Engage with content related to financial leadership in education to get noticed by recruiters.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply directly through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows your genuine interest in joining Ridgeway Education Trust and contributing to their mission.
We think you need these skills to ace Chief Financial Officer in Didcot
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter for the Chief Financial Officer role. Highlight your relevant experience in financial leadership and strategic planning, as this will show us you understand what we're looking for.
Showcase Your Achievements:Don’t just list your responsibilities; share specific achievements that demonstrate your impact in previous roles. We love to see quantifiable results, so if you've improved financial processes or led successful projects, let us know!
Be Clear and Concise:When writing your application, keep it clear and to the point. Use straightforward language and avoid jargon unless it's relevant. We appreciate a well-structured application that’s easy to read.
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 there!
How to prepare for a job interview at Ridgeway Education Trust
✨Know Your Numbers
As a Chief Financial Officer, you’ll need to demonstrate your financial acumen. Brush up on key financial metrics and be ready to discuss how you've used them in past roles. Prepare examples of how your strategic financial planning has led to successful outcomes.
✨Understand the Trust's Vision
Familiarise yourself with Ridgeway Education Trust’s mission and values. Be prepared to articulate how your experience aligns with their goals of collaboration and excellence in education. Show that you’re not just about numbers but also about making a positive impact.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect questions that assess your problem-solving skills in real-world scenarios. Think about challenges you’ve faced in financial management and how you overcame them. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your responses.
✨Showcase Leadership Experience
Highlight your experience in leading finance and HR teams. Be ready to discuss how you’ve developed talent and fostered a collaborative environment. This role is about more than just finances; it’s about guiding a team towards shared goals.
