At a Glance
- Tasks: Manage financial processes and support decision-making at St Edwards.
- Company: St Edwards is a prestigious school with an annual income of £40m.
- Benefits: Enjoy a dynamic work environment with opportunities for professional growth.
- Why this job: Join a supportive team dedicated to financial success and child welfare.
- Qualifications: Experience in accounting, budget management, and team leadership is essential.
- Other info: Early applications are encouraged; commitment to safeguarding is a must.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
This is an exciting opportunity for an experienced and professionally qualified accountant to play a key role in the financial success of St Edwards.
The Role
St Edwards is a complex environment with an annual income of c.£40m, and in this hands-on and varied role you will be involved in the management of the schools accounts processes and payroll. You will ensure that managers across St Edwards have excellent information on which to base operational and financial decisions, and your key responsibilities will include:
- Ensuring that the schools financial systems are appropriate to the schools needs
- Co-ordinating the annual budget process
- Producing monthly cash flow forecasts and monitoring the risks
- Ensuring compliance with VAT legislation and introducing new processes as necessary
- Working with auditors to prepare school accounts
- On a monthly basis, processing investment income and transactions
- Supporting the Billing Manager and the DFCS with chasing debt and liaising with lawyers
- Managing the work of the accounts team
About You
To be considered for this role you will need knowledge and proficiency in the use of computerised accounting packages as well as the ability to lead and produce management accounts and budgets to tight timescales. You will also need experience in a similar role, within a similarly sized and complex environment, in addition to experience of managing complex budgets within strict budgetary constraints. Experience of producing and presenting complex management accounts and experience of line managing a team is essential. Strong numeracy, analytical, accounting and organisational skills are equally important.
For further details and to apply please click the apply button. The deadline for applications is 9am on Tuesday 1st April 2025. We reserve the right to conduct interviews and appoint for the role before the advertised closing date should a suitable candidate be found. Therefore early applications are encouraged.
St Edwards is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and we aim to create and maintain a safe environment for our pupils, where they feel respected and supported. We expect all staff to share this commitment and to become familiar with our policies and procedures for child protection and security. All staff are required to apply for an Enhanced Disclosure from the Disclosure and Barring Service.
St Edwards School is an equal opportunity employer that is committed to diversity and inclusion in the workplace. We prohibit discrimination and harassment of any kind based on age, race, sex, religion, gender reassignment, sexual orientation, disability, pregnancy, or any other protected characteristic. Please see our Equal Opportunities & Dignity at Work policy on our website for further details.
Financial Controller in Oxford employer: St Edward's Oxford
Contact Detail:
St Edward's Oxford Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Financial Controller in Oxford
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with St Edwards' financial processes and systems. Research their current financial practices and any recent changes in their budget management to demonstrate your understanding during the interview.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in the education sector, particularly those who have experience in financial roles within schools. This can provide you with insights into the specific challenges they face and how you can address them in your application.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your experience with compliance and regulations, especially regarding VAT legislation. Be ready to share examples of how you've successfully implemented new processes in previous roles.
✨Tip Number 4
Showcase your leadership skills by preparing examples of how you've managed teams in the past. Highlight your ability to produce and present complex management accounts, as this will be crucial for the role.
We think you need these skills to ace Financial Controller in Oxford
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights your experience in financial management, particularly in complex environments. Emphasise your proficiency with accounting software and your ability to manage budgets effectively.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: In your cover letter, explain why you are the perfect fit for the Financial Controller role at St Edwards. Mention specific experiences that demonstrate your skills in producing management accounts and leading a team.
Highlight Relevant Qualifications: Clearly state your professional qualifications and any relevant certifications. This is crucial for a role that requires an experienced and professionally qualified accountant.
Showcase Analytical Skills: Provide examples of how you've used your analytical skills to make informed financial decisions in previous roles. This will help demonstrate your capability to support operational and financial decision-making at St Edwards.
How to prepare for a job interview at St Edward's Oxford
✨Know Your Numbers
As a Financial Controller, you'll need to demonstrate strong numeracy and analytical skills. Brush up on key financial metrics and be prepared to discuss how you've managed complex budgets in the past.
✨Familiarise Yourself with Compliance
Understanding VAT legislation and compliance is crucial for this role. Make sure you can explain your experience with compliance processes and how you've implemented changes in previous positions.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
Since the role involves managing a team, be ready to share examples of how you've successfully led teams in the past. Highlight your experience in producing management accounts and budgets under tight deadlines.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect questions that assess your problem-solving abilities, especially in financial forecasting and risk management. Think of specific scenarios where you've had to make critical decisions based on financial data.