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- Tasks: Lead finance operations and team, overseeing budgeting, payroll, and financial reporting.
- Company: St. Edward’s School, a forward-thinking institution in Oxford.
- Benefits: 30 days annual leave, gym membership, free meals, and career development support.
- Why this job: Join a successful school with a friendly team and opportunities for growth.
- Qualifications: Professionally qualified accountant with experience in financial management.
- Other info: Enjoy a beautiful setting in North Oxford, just minutes from the city centre.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 80000 ÂŁ per year.
Are you looking for your next senior finance role in a well-resourced, forward-thinking organisation? St. Edward’s in Oxford is seeking a skilled and hands-on Head of Finance to lead its finance operations and team. If you enjoy working in a fast-paced, varied environment where your expertise directly supports operational and strategic decision-making, this could be the opportunity you have been looking for.
About the Role
This is a central leadership position within the school’s Bursary, responsible for overseeing a team of six and the full range of financial activity—from day-to-day operations through to longer-term planning. Reporting to the Director of Finance, you will take ownership of management accounts, budgeting and forecasting, payroll oversight, cashflow, audit preparation, VAT and Tax, and regulatory reporting. The school’s operations are diverse and complex, with an annual turnover of approximately £40 million and activities spanning education, estates, catering, IT, commercial ventures and fundraising. You will be working closely with senior leaders and departmental managers to provide clear, timely financial insight that supports effective planning and delivery.
About You
You will be a professionally qualified accountant with substantial experience in financial management, ideally in a similarly broad and complex setting. You will need to be confident managing multiple workstreams and leading a team, but equally comfortable rolling up your sleeves. A background in the independent or education sector is welcome but not essential. What’s important is that you combine strong technical capability with sound judgement, a calm and organised approach, and the ability to work effectively with colleagues from across the organisation.
Why St. Edward’s?
This is a rare opportunity to join a successful school with the scale and complexity to keep things interesting, but without the relentless pressure of the corporate world. As a senior member of a friendly, capable team, you will be given space to lead, freedom to improve systems, and support to develop your own career. St Edward’s is committed to the professional development of all its staff and seeks to encourage ambition and career progression. The school has a strong track record of internal progression and invests in high-quality infrastructure and people. Based in North Oxford, St. Edward’s offers the best of both worlds—challenge and reward in a beautiful setting, just minutes from the city centre.
We also offer:
- 30 days’ annual leave, plus bank holidays
- Free membership to the Nuffield Health Fitness and Wellbeing Gym
- Free meals during term time
- Support for CPD and further qualifications
- A friendly and inclusive working environment
- Free car parking
- Cycle to work scheme
- Employee assistance programme
- Defined contribution pension scheme with Scottish Widows (The standard employee contribution rate is 5% with the employer contributing 8%)
For further details and to apply please click the apply button. The deadline for applications is Friday 1st May 2026 at midday. 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 Edward’s 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 Edward’s 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.
Head of Finance employer: St Edward's School
Contact Detail:
St Edward's School Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Finance
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the finance sector and let them know you're on the lookout 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 researching the organisation thoroughly. Understand their financial operations and challenges, so you can showcase how your skills can directly support their goals. This will help you stand out as a candidate who truly gets what they need.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your pitch! Be ready to explain your experience and how it aligns with the Head of Finance role. Highlight your leadership skills and ability to manage multiple workstreams effectively—this is key for a senior position.
✨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 Finance
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the Head of Finance role. Highlight your relevant experience in financial management and leadership, and don’t forget to showcase any specific achievements that align with the job description.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you’re the perfect fit for St. Edward’s. Mention your passion for education and how your skills can contribute to their finance operations.
Showcase Your Team Leadership Skills: Since this role involves leading a team, make sure to emphasise your leadership experience. Share examples of how you've successfully managed teams and improved financial processes in previous roles.
Apply Early!: Don’t wait until the last minute to apply! We encourage early applications as we may conduct interviews before the deadline. Head over to our website and submit your application today!
How to prepare for a job interview at St Edward's School
✨Know Your Numbers
As a Head of Finance, you’ll need to demonstrate your financial acumen. Brush up on key financial metrics relevant to the school’s operations, like budgeting, cash flow management, and audit processes. Be ready to discuss how you've successfully managed these areas in previous roles.
✨Showcase Leadership Skills
This role involves leading a team, so be prepared to share examples of how you've effectively managed and motivated others. Think about specific challenges you've faced as a leader and how you overcame them. Highlight your hands-on approach and ability to roll up your sleeves when needed.
✨Understand the Educational Landscape
While a background in education isn’t essential, having a grasp of the unique financial challenges faced by schools can set you apart. Research St. Edward’s and similar institutions to understand their financial structures and operational complexities. This will help you tailor your responses during the interview.
✨Prepare Thoughtful Questions
Interviews are a two-way street, so come armed with insightful questions about the school's financial strategies and future plans. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you assess if the school aligns with your career goals. Ask about their approach to professional development and how they support their finance team.