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- Tasks: Lead financial strategy and ensure the sustainability of our growing academy trust.
- Company: Join St Oscar Romero Catholic Academy Trust, a supportive and innovative educational environment.
- Benefits: Highly competitive salary, generous pension scheme, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on the financial health of schools while fostering a positive ethos.
- Qualifications: Extensive experience in executive finance roles and strong communication skills.
- Other info: Flexible working across multiple schools with a commitment to safeguarding children.
The predicted salary is between 43200 - 72000 £ per year.
St Oscar Romero Catholic Academy Trust is recruiting for a Chief Finance Officer (CFO). The contract length is permanent with a highly competitive salary range and benefits. The location is flexible, with work primarily at different schools within the Trust and a head office at Shirley Court, Croydon, CR9 5AS.
The Chief Finance Officer will play a crucial role in ensuring the financial health and sustainability of our academies. We are seeking an individual who possesses exceptional financial acumen and a passion for fostering a positive and innovative environment where both students and staff can thrive. Our Catholic ethos and mission is at the heart of everything we do, and we expect candidates to share and embrace those values.
The ideal candidate will:
- Have extensive previous experience of working as part of an Executive Leadership Team.
- Be able to communicate complex financial concepts to diverse audiences.
- Share our commitment to transparency and accountability.
- Play a key role in shaping the strategy of the Trust and ensuring that strong financial practices and strategy are embedded within all strategic planning.
- Align to the mission, vision and values of St Oscar Romero and the Diocese.
In return, we offer:
- The opportunity to work within a highly skilled and supportive team.
- A commitment to continue with national pay, terms and conditions.
- Access to the generous Local Government Pension Scheme.
- Staff benefits, including a cycle to work scheme.
- Opportunities for personal and professional growth and access to our Training Portal.
- The opportunity to join a growing Trust.
Closing date: 9:00am Monday 23rd February. Interview date: w/c 2nd March. Start date: To be agreed.
To apply, please complete the Catholic Education Service Leadership form available in supporting documents. Use the personal statement in your application form to demonstrate how you meet the person specification, with evidence provided wherever possible of outcomes and positive impact. Candidates will be shortlisted based on how well they demonstrate the knowledge, skills and attributes set out in the job description and person specification.
Completed forms should be submitted by email. Should you have any queries, please contact HR on 0207 202 8199. Shortlisted candidates will be invited to interview in the week commencing on Monday 2nd March 2026. The interview process will consist of a series of job-related exercises designed to give candidates the opportunity to demonstrate the key attitudes, skills and knowledge required for the role.
Safeguarding: St Oscar Romero Catholic Academy Trust is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. All staff and volunteers are expected to behave in such a way that supports this commitment. Appointment to this post will be subject to satisfactory shortlisting and pre-employment checks, including an Enhanced DBS check.
Locations
Chief Finance Officer (CFO) in Croydon, London employer: ST OSCAR ROMERO CATHOLIC ACADEMY TRUST
Contact Detail:
ST OSCAR ROMERO CATHOLIC ACADEMY TRUST Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Chief Finance Officer (CFO) in Croydon, London
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the education sector, especially those who might know someone at St Oscar Romero. A friendly chat can sometimes lead to insider info or even a referral.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by diving deep into the Trust's mission and values. Show us how your financial expertise aligns with their Catholic ethos and how you can contribute to their growth plans.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice communicating complex financial concepts in simple terms. You’ll need to demonstrate this skill during the interview, so think of examples where you've successfully done this before.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining our team.
We think you need these skills to ace Chief Finance Officer (CFO) in Croydon, London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion: When writing your application, let your passion for education and finance shine through. We want to see how you align with our Catholic ethos and mission, so don’t hold back on sharing why this role excites you!
Be Specific: Use the personal statement section to provide concrete examples of your previous experience. We’re looking for evidence of your financial acumen and how you've positively impacted your past roles, so make sure to highlight those achievements!
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to tailor your application to the job description. Highlight how your skills and experiences match what we’re looking for in a Chief Finance Officer. This shows us that you’ve done your homework and are genuinely interested in the role.
Submit Through Our Website: Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the easiest way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it gives you a chance to explore more about our Trust while you’re at it!
How to prepare for a job interview at ST OSCAR ROMERO CATHOLIC ACADEMY TRUST
✨Know Your Numbers
As a Chief Finance Officer, you’ll need to demonstrate your financial expertise. Brush up on key financial metrics and be ready to discuss how you've used them to drive decision-making in previous roles. This shows you can communicate complex concepts clearly.
✨Align with the Trust's Values
Familiarise yourself with the mission and values of St Oscar Romero Catholic Academy Trust. Be prepared to share how your personal values align with theirs, especially regarding fostering a positive environment for students and staff. This connection is crucial!
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect scenario-based questions that assess your strategic thinking and problem-solving skills. Think about past experiences where you’ve shaped financial strategy or improved practices, and be ready to discuss the outcomes and impacts of your decisions.
✨Engage with the Interviewers
Remember, interviews are a two-way street! Prepare thoughtful questions about the Trust’s future plans and how the CFO role fits into that vision. This not only shows your interest but also helps you gauge if this is the right fit for you.
