At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead financial planning and reporting for a growing education organisation.
- Company: Join Emmaus Catholic Academy Trust, a rapidly expanding Multi-Academy Trust.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, flexible working, generous leave, and professional development.
- Other info: Opportunity for strategic influence and career growth in a values-led organisation.
- Why this job: Shape the financial future of education while making a real impact in communities.
- Qualifications: Qualified accountant with senior-level financial leadership experience.
The predicted salary is between 72029 - 87330 £ per year.
Shape the financial future of one of the North West's fastest-growing education organisations. We are delighted to be partnering with Emmaus Catholic Academy Trust in the search for a Head of Financial Planning & Reporting (Deputy CFO). This is a rare opportunity to join a thriving and ambitious Multi‑Academy Trust at a pivotal point in its growth journey. Emmaus CAT currently supports over 12,000 pupils and 1,450 staff across 32 schools, with plans to grow to almost 25,000 pupils and 3,000 staff through continued expansion across Greater Manchester.
Reporting directly to the CFO, you'll be a key member of the senior finance leadership team, helping to shape long‑term financial strategy, drive business partnering excellence and support sustainable growth across a complex and evolving organisation.
The Role
This is far more than a traditional Head of Finance position. As Deputy CFO, you'll play a pivotal role in driving the Trust's continued success, leading financial planning, reporting and business partnering across one of the region's fastest‑growing academy trusts. With up to 10 schools joining each year, you'll help deliver the Trust's financial strategy, support expansion and enhance organisational performance, ensuring the Trust remains financially strong and well‑positioned for the future.
This newly created leadership role offers:
- Strategic influence with Board‑level exposure
- Leadership of a growing Finance Business Partnering function
- Responsibility for consolidated budgeting, forecasting and financial planning across a complex multi‑site organisation of 50+ schools
- Driving financial strategy, budgeting and integrated curriculum financial planning
- Involvement in growth, due diligence and school onboarding projects
- The opportunity to modernise finance systems, reporting and processes
- Close partnership with the CFO, Executive Team, Headteachers and Trustees
- A clear pathway for further executive finance leadership development
- Deputising for the CFO and contributing to Board and Committee reporting
Working at the heart of the organisation, you'll help ensure financial resilience, support investment in educational outcomes and contribute directly to the Trust's ambitious growth plans. As Deputy CFO, working closely with the CFO, Executive Team and Trustees, you'll play a central role in ensuring the Trust remains financially resilient while supporting investment in educational outcomes that make a real difference to communities.
About You
We're looking for a qualified accountant (ACA, ACCA, CIMA or CIPFA) with:
- Significant senior‑level financial leadership experience
- Strong budgeting, forecasting and strategic planning expertise
- Experience leading and developing high‑performing teams
- Excellent stakeholder management and communication skills
- A passion for continuous improvement and delivering meaningful organisational impact
Multi‑academy trust, education or charity sector experience would be advantageous, but applications from candidates with transferable leadership experience from other complex and regulated organisations are welcomed.
What's on Offer?
- Salary (DOE) £72,029 - £87,330 (plus NJC national pay awards)
- Modern offices in Sale, with travel across Greater Manchester schools
- Flexible & hybrid working arrangements, balanced with regular on‑site collaboration and occasional evening Board/Governor meetings
- Local Government Pension Scheme (career average scheme)
- 26 days annual leave (rising to 31 dependent on service)
- 4 additional Christmas closure days
- Employee Assistance Programme and wellbeing support through Education Mutual
- Cycle to Work Scheme
Why Emmaus CAT?
Emmaus CAT exists to provide exceptional education and opportunities for children and young people across Greater Manchester. Its vision is rooted in strong values, collaboration and innovation, underpinned by a commitment to continuous improvement and the responsible stewardship of resources. This is a strategic Deputy CFO position with genuine influence across a rapidly expanding organisation. You'll play a key role in shaping financial strategy, supporting growth and informing executive‑level decision‑making, while benefiting from excellent professional development opportunities within a values‑led organisation dedicated to improving outcomes for young people and communities.
If you're an ambitious finance leader seeking a role where strategic thinking, financial leadership and social impact intersect, we'd love to hear from you.
Please note that we are only able to consider applications from those who are eligible to work in the UK and therefore do not require sponsorship.
Head of Financial Planning & Reporting (Deputy CFO) employer: South Lakes Housing
Emmaus Catholic Academy Trust is an exceptional employer, offering a unique opportunity to shape the financial future of one of the North West's fastest-growing education organisations. With a strong commitment to professional development, flexible working arrangements, and a collaborative work culture, employees are empowered to make a meaningful impact on educational outcomes for over 12,000 pupils. Join a values-led organisation that prioritises continuous improvement and community engagement, while enjoying excellent benefits and a clear pathway for career advancement.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Financial Planning & Reporting (Deputy CFO)
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the education sector or finance community. Attend events, webinars, or even casual meet-ups to get your name out there and learn about potential opportunities.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching Emmaus Catholic Academy Trust thoroughly. Understand their mission, values, and recent developments. This will help you tailor your responses and show that you're genuinely interested in contributing to their growth.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your pitch! Be ready to articulate your experience and how it aligns with the role of Deputy CFO. Highlight your leadership skills and strategic thinking, as these are key for shaping financial strategy in a growing organisation.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take the initiative to engage directly with us.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Financial Planning & Reporting (Deputy CFO)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV reflects the specific skills and experiences that align with the Deputy CFO role. Highlight your financial leadership experience and any relevant achievements in budgeting and forecasting.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Use your cover letter to tell us why you're passionate about this role and how you can contribute to Emmaus CAT's mission. Be sure to mention your strategic thinking and stakeholder management skills.
Showcase Your Leadership Style:In your application, give us a glimpse of your leadership style. Share examples of how you've developed high-performing teams and driven continuous improvement in previous roles.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website for a smoother process. This way, we can easily track your application and ensure it gets the attention it deserves!
How to prepare for a job interview at South Lakes Housing
✨Know Your Numbers
As a candidate for the Head of Financial Planning & Reporting, it's crucial to be well-versed in financial metrics and KPIs relevant to the education sector. Brush up on budgeting, forecasting, and strategic planning techniques that align with the Trust's goals.
✨Showcase Leadership Experience
Prepare to discuss your previous leadership roles and how you've developed high-performing teams. Be ready to share specific examples of how you've influenced financial strategy and driven organisational success in complex environments.
✨Understand the Organisation's Vision
Familiarise yourself with Emmaus Catholic Academy Trust's mission and values. Demonstrating an understanding of their commitment to educational outcomes and community impact will show your alignment with their goals and your passion for the role.
✨Engage with Stakeholders
Highlight your experience in stakeholder management during the interview. Prepare to discuss how you've effectively communicated with various stakeholders, including Board members and senior executives, to drive financial initiatives and support growth.
