At a Glance
- Tasks: Manage finances for multiple academies and ensure compliance with educational regulations.
- Company: Join The Sigma Trust, a collaborative network of academies in North East Essex.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive pay, CPD training, and perks like gym discounts and cycle schemes.
- Other info: Commitment to safeguarding and diversity in a supportive work environment.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in education while developing your finance career.
- Qualifications: Experience in senior finance roles and knowledge of accounting software required.
The predicted salary is between 31725 - 38775 £ per year.
The Sigma Trust is a local partnership of academies in North East Essex and we are currently looking for an outstanding individual to join our Central Team to provide professional timely financial guidance and support to the Sigma schools.
Some of your key responsibilities will include:
- Financial Administration: Executing financial management procedures across multi-phase academies in strict accordance with Department for Education frameworks, expectations on public spending, and Trust policies.
- Budget Monitoring & Reporting: Partnering with the Finance Director and Head teachers to monitor budgets, support clear, accurate financial reporting and ensuring strong financial practices within the Trust academies.
- Financial Approvals and Restrictions: Reviewing and authorising purchases up to designated delegation limits while ensuring all expenditure complies strictly with educational purchasing regulations, ring fenced grant restrictions, and value for money guidelines.
We're looking for you if you have:
- Experience at a senior finance level of direct management of budgets
- Proven experience of budget preparation, setting and monitoring and financial forecasting
- Proven experience of preparing and presenting financial and management accounts, reports and data
- Knowledge and experience of operating accounting software systems
- Experience of working in a school or academy
- A Professional Accountancy Qualification would be desirable
Why work for The Sigma Trust, Sigma Central?
- Robust school CPD training programme that enables you to flourish
- Opportunities to work with colleagues across the Trust to share resources, ideas and build collaborative relationships
Employee benefits include:
- Employee Assistance Programme
- Pension scheme
- Free membership to Perkbox
- Cycle to Work scheme
- Discounted gym membership at selected local gyms
Please note that an integration period applies to all new staff joining the Trust, to support introduction into the organisation.
Commitment to Safeguarding & Diversity
The Sigma Trust is committed to safeguarding and protecting the children and young people that we work with. As such, all posts are subject to safer recruitment processes, including the disclosure of criminal records, online checks and other vetting checks. We ensure that we have a range of policies in place which promote safeguarding and safer working practice across our schools. The Sigma Trust is proud to be an equal opportunity workplace. We are committed to equal employment opportunities regardless of any protected characteristics.
Academies Finance Manager employer: Shorefields
Shorefields in Chelmsford is an exceptional employer dedicated to fostering a supportive and inclusive environment for both staff and students. With a focus on professional development, we offer numerous growth opportunities and a collaborative work culture that values innovation and compassion in caring for children with complex needs. Our new purpose-built school provides a unique setting where you can make a meaningful impact in the lives of young people while enjoying the benefits of working in a vibrant community.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Academies Finance Manager
✨Tap into Campus Networks
If you're still in uni, don’t forget to engage with your campus's career services and attend finance-related events. Banks often do presentations and recruitment drives on campus, so put yourself out there and make use of these opportunities to show off your passion for the field.
✨Get Certified
Consider pursuing relevant certifications like the CFA or ACCA while you’re job hunting. They not only beef up your CV but also connect you with professional bodies which can lead to networking opportunities and even job openings in banking and financial services.
✨Connect on Professional Platforms
Join finance-focused groups on platforms like LinkedIn and engage in discussions. This can really help you stand out from the crowd, allowing potential employers to see your knowledge and interest in industry trends. Plus, you might stumble upon job postings shared exclusively within the group.
✨Apply Directly and Be Proactive
Don’t shy away from reaching out directly to firms like Shorefields. Use their websites and apply through them, but also consider following up with a polite email to express your enthusiasm. Being proactive can make a huge difference in getting noticed in the competitive financial services sector.
We think you need these skills to ace Academies Finance Manager
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Numbers!:In the banking and financial services world, quantifiable achievements are key. Make sure your CV highlights your grades in relevant subjects, any financial certifications you hold, and specific projects where you've delivered measurable results. Employers love to see how your skills translate into real-world success.
Tailor Your Cover Letter to the Role:When applying for a full-time position, your cover letter should make a direct connection between your experience and the job description. Don't just state your enthusiasm for finance—dive into how your background in banking or financial analysis sets you apart. Let your passion shine through while being specific about what you can bring to Shorefields.
Include Relevant Financial Software Experience:If you've worked with financial modelling tools or software like Excel, SAP, or specific analytical tools during your studies or internships, bring that up! Highlighting your proficiency can really make your application pop and show you're ready to hit the ground running in a full-time role.
Research and Reflect:Before hitting that 'apply' button on Shorefields's website, do a little digging. Look up their recent projects, values, and culture. Reflecting their ethos in your application can make a huge difference and show you’re genuinely interested in being part of the team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Shorefields
✨Brush Up on Financial Analysis Skills
Make sure you're well-versed in financial concepts and analytical techniques relevant to banking and financial services. Get comfortable with tools like Excel for modelling or financial forecasting, as technical questions in this area are common during interviews with Shorefields.
✨Prepare for Case Studies
Expect to tackle case studies that demonstrate your problem-solving skills in real-world banking scenarios. Familiarise yourself with the types of problems you might face—think risk assessments or investment evaluations—and be ready to articulate your thought process clearly.
✨Show Your Passion for Finance
Since this is a full-time position, employers at Shorefields will be keen to see your genuine interest in finance. Be prepared to discuss recent industry trends or news articles that excite you, showcasing your enthusiasm and engagement with the field.
✨Network with Industry Professionals
Before your interview, reach out to current or former Shorefields employees on platforms like LinkedIn. They'll offer unique insights into the company's culture and the interview process, which can give us a delightful edge in showcasing a good fit for the team.
