At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead financial strategy and enhance procedures for a growing Academy Trust.
- Company: Dynamic Academy Trust transitioning to a Multi-Academy Trust.
- Benefits: Competitive interim salary and the chance to shape financial processes.
- Other info: Join a diverse team committed to equality and inclusion.
- Why this job: Make a significant impact in education finance during a pivotal transition.
- Qualifications: Experience in finance within the education sector; ACA/CIMA/ACMA/CIPFA qualified preferred.
The predicted salary is between 56700 - 69300 £ per year.
RM Recruit is delighted to be partnering with a growing Academy Trust to recruit an experienced Head of Finance on an interim basis for approximately six months. As the Trust transitions from a Single Academy Trust to a Multi-Academy Trust (MAT), it requires a finance professional with sector expertise to provide strategic guidance on the development and implementation of enhanced financial procedures, controls, and operational processes.
Main duties will include, but not be limited to:
- Budget Forecast Return (BFR) and prepare the Trust for the critical August Year-End Audit.
- Balance Sheet Oversight: Conduct necessary remediation on the balance sheet, focusing heavily on capitalisation, fixed assets, and balancing accounts
- Centralisation & Reporting: Review, refine, and modernise the monthly Management Accounts (MA) process to better reflect structural changes across the MAT.
The successful candidate will be an accomplished Head of Finance or Senior Finance Manager with demonstrable experience within the Academy or wider education sector. You will possess a strong understanding of MAT accounting principles, statutory financial reporting requirements, and complex balance sheet management. In addition, you will be highly systems-literate, with the ability to translate technical and regulatory changes into clear, accessible guidance for non-finance stakeholders.
You will be qualified (ACA/CIMA/ACMA/CIPFA) however candidates who are qualified by experience / part qualified will be considered should they evidence strong experience in the sector. The start date for this role will be September 2026
RM Recruit is committed to Equality, Diversity and Inclusion and will treat all applicants equally irrespective of sex, sexual orientation, marital/civil partnership status, age, disability, race, religion, pregnancy, ethnic or national origin.
Head of Finance (Academy Trust) in Walsall employer: RM RECRUIT LIMITED
Join a forward-thinking not-for-profit organisation that values your contributions and fosters a supportive work culture. With flexible remote working options and a monthly office presence in the Midlands, you'll enjoy a healthy work-life balance while developing your finance skills in a collaborative environment. The company is dedicated to employee growth, offering opportunities for professional development and a commitment to equality, diversity, and inclusion.
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We think you need these skills to ace Head of Finance (Academy Trust) in Walsall
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