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- Tasks: Lead financial strategy and ensure long-term sustainability for Bedfordshire Schools Trust.
- Company: Join a high-performing multi-academy trust dedicated to exceptional education.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, permanent contract, and the chance to make a real impact.
- Other info: Pivotal role in a values-led organisation with strong growth ambitions.
- Why this job: Be a key player in shaping the future of education for over 8,000 children.
- Qualifications: Fully qualified accountant with significant leadership experience, preferably in education.
The predicted salary is between 98040 - 117064 £ per year.
Contract: Full-time, permanent; Salary: £98,040 - £117,064; Accountable to: Chief Executive Officer; Location: BEST House, Shefford, Bedfordshire; Start date: September 2026
Bedfordshire Schools Trust (BEST) is a high-performing and growing multi-academy trust providing exceptional education across 11 schools and five nurseries. We serve more than 8,000 children from nursery through to advanced level study and employ over 1,000 staff. Driven by clear values and a strong sense of purpose, we are committed to putting children first, working collaboratively, and delivering high-quality community-based education.
As we continue to grow, we are seeking an outstanding Chief Financial Officer to lead our financial strategy and ensure long-term sustainability. As Chief Financial Officer, you will provide strategic leadership for all aspects of finance across the Trust. You will work closely with the CEO, Board of Trustees and school leaders to support delivery of BEST's vision and strategic priorities. You will ensure that financial planning, reporting and controls are robust, transparent and aligned to improving educational outcomes.
You will lead the central finance team and provide expert advice to academy and nursery leaders, enabling them to focus on delivering excellence in education. You will play a key role in Trust growth, including financial due diligence for new schools joining BEST, and in strengthening systems, processes and financial governance. As a senior leader, you will ensure the highest standards of financial management and compliance. You will oversee budgeting, forecasting and financial reporting, ensuring public funds are used effectively and deliver value for money. You will maintain strong internal controls and ensure compliance with all statutory and regulatory requirements.
The successful candidate will be a fully qualified accountant (ACCA, ACA, CIMA, CIPFA or equivalent) with significant leadership experience, ideally within the education sector. You will bring strong financial acumen, strategic insight and the ability to lead complex organisations. You will be an effective communicator, able to build strong relationships with stakeholders at all levels. You will demonstrate integrity, resilience and a commitment to high standards, equality and safeguarding.
This is a pivotal role within a values-led organisation with a strong track record and ambitious future. You will play a central part in ensuring BEST continues to grow and thrive. We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children. All offers of employment will be subject to satisfactory pre-employment checks and references, including enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) clearance. Strictly no agencies.
Chief Financial Officer Bedfordshire Schools Trust (BEST) in Shefford employer: Satis Education Ltd
Contact Detail:
Satis Education Ltd Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Chief Financial Officer Bedfordshire Schools Trust (BEST) in Shefford
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the education sector, especially those who might know someone at BEST. A personal introduction can make all the difference.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by researching BEST's values and recent initiatives. Show us that you’re not just a numbers person but also someone who aligns with our mission of putting children first.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your pitch! Be ready to explain how your financial expertise can directly contribute to improving educational outcomes. We want to see your strategic insight in action.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive about their job search.
We think you need these skills to ace Chief Financial Officer Bedfordshire Schools Trust (BEST) in Shefford
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV reflects the skills and experiences that align with the Chief Financial Officer role. Highlight your financial leadership experience, especially in the education sector, to show us you’re the right fit for BEST.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to tell us why you’re passionate about education and how your strategic insight can help BEST grow. Be genuine and let your personality come through.
Showcase Your Achievements: When detailing your past roles, focus on specific achievements that demonstrate your financial acumen and leadership skills. Numbers speak volumes, so include metrics where possible to illustrate your impact.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you don’t miss any important updates from us during the process!
How to prepare for a job interview at Satis Education Ltd
✨Know Your Numbers
As a Chief Financial Officer, you’ll need to demonstrate your financial expertise. Brush up on key financial metrics relevant to the education sector and be ready to discuss how you've used data to drive strategic decisions in your previous roles.
✨Align with BEST's Values
Familiarise yourself with Bedfordshire Schools Trust's mission and values. Be prepared to share examples of how your leadership style and financial strategies align with their commitment to putting children first and delivering high-quality education.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect scenario-based questions that assess your problem-solving skills. Think about challenges you’ve faced in financial management and how you navigated them, especially in a multi-academy trust or similar environment.
✨Build Relationships
Since this role involves working closely with various stakeholders, be ready to discuss how you’ve built strong relationships in the past. Highlight your communication skills and give examples of how you’ve collaborated with non-financial leaders to achieve common goals.