At a Glance
- Tasks: Support schools funding priorities and improve financial monitoring for education.
- Company: Local Authority in the South West with a high-performing Education Finance team.
- Benefits: Competitive daily rate, hybrid working, and potential contract extension.
- Other info: Opportunity to work independently with senior stakeholders and develop clear recommendations.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in education finance while working on impactful SEND reforms.
- Qualifications: Strong experience in schools funding and financial modelling.
Spencer Clarke Group are working with a Local Authority in the South West to appoint an Interim Schools Funding Specialist to support a key programme of work across SEND reform, High Needs monitoring and deficit management. This is a specialist assignment within a high-performing Education Finance team, supporting areas where the permanent team has strong subject knowledge but limited capacity.
What's on Offer
- Rate: £580 - £750 per day
- Contract: Initial 6 months, with potential to extend
- Working Pattern: Hybrid working
- Office Attendance: Around once per week
- Start: ASAP / subject to compliance
The Role
You will support the council with several key schools funding priorities, including:
- Supporting the council's response to the Local SEND Reform Plan
- Assisting with detailed financial modelling linked to recent SEND funding reforms
- Ensuring financial systems are set up to monitor and deliver new funding arrangements
- Improving monitoring and reporting of High Needs spending
- Strengthening accountability around spend on Alternative Learning Provision, Education Other Than At School and Elective Home Education
- Developing policy around budgetary deficits across schools, early years providers and further education settings
- Providing clear, practical recommendations to senior stakeholders on complex funding issues
About You
The successful candidate will have:
- Strong schools funding experience from a Local Authority perspective
- Experience working with SEND / High Needs funding
- A track record of resolving complex education finance or schools funding issues
- Strong financial modelling, monitoring and reporting experience
- Confidence working independently with senior stakeholders
- The ability to turn complex issues into clear recommendations and practical actions
How to Apply
For more information, please apply with your latest CV or contact Brad Robertson at Spencer Clarke Group.
Know someone who might be suitable? We offer a referral bonus of up to £300 for successful referrals.
Finance Manager - Schools employer: Spencer Clarke Group
At Spencer Clarke Group, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer, particularly for those in the finance sector within education. Our collaborative work culture fosters professional growth and development, offering unique opportunities to engage with key stakeholders in a meaningful way while contributing to vital educational reforms. With competitive rates and a supportive environment, we empower our team members to make a real impact in the community.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Finance Manager - Schools
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the education finance sector and let them know you're on the hunt for opportunities. You never know who might have the inside scoop on a role that’s perfect for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by brushing up on your knowledge of SEND funding reforms and financial modelling. We recommend practising common interview questions and having clear examples ready to showcase your experience in resolving complex funding issues.
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t underestimate the power of follow-ups! After an interview, drop a quick thank-you email to express your appreciation and reiterate your interest in the role. It keeps you fresh in their minds and shows your enthusiasm.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website for the best chance at landing that Finance Manager role. We make it easy for you to showcase your skills and experience directly to the hiring team, so don’t miss out!
We think you need these skills to ace Finance Manager - Schools
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the role of Schools Funding Specialist. Highlight your experience with SEND funding and financial modelling, as these are key areas for this position.
Showcase Your Achievements:Don’t just list your responsibilities; showcase your achievements in previous roles. Use specific examples that demonstrate your ability to resolve complex education finance issues.
Keep It Clear and Concise:When writing your application, keep it clear and concise. Avoid jargon and make sure your recommendations are easy to understand, especially since you’ll be communicating with senior stakeholders.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother process. This way, we can easily track your application and get back to you quicker!
How to prepare for a job interview at Spencer Clarke Group
✨Know Your Funding Inside Out
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of schools funding, especially in relation to SEND and High Needs. Familiarise yourself with recent reforms and be ready to discuss how they impact financial modelling and reporting.
✨Prepare Real-World Examples
Think of specific instances where you've tackled complex education finance issues. Be prepared to share these examples during the interview, highlighting your problem-solving skills and how you provided clear recommendations to stakeholders.
✨Showcase Your Independence
Since the role requires working independently with senior stakeholders, demonstrate your ability to take initiative. Share experiences where you successfully managed projects or made decisions without constant supervision.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
Prepare thoughtful questions about the council's current funding priorities and challenges. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you understand how you can contribute effectively to their goals.
