At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead financial strategy and operational performance for a leading independent school.
- Company: Renowned independent school in Cheshire with a focus on sustainability and excellence.
- Benefits: Competitive salary up to £120,000 and heavily discounted school fees.
- Other info: Collaborative environment promoting inclusion and staff wellbeing.
- Why this job: Make a significant impact on the school's long-term success and community.
- Qualifications: Degree educated with senior leadership experience and strong financial acumen.
The predicted salary is between 100000 - 120000 £ per year.
I'm currently retained by a leading independent school in Cheshire to appoint a Chief Financial Officer who will provide strategic and operational leadership across the organisation.
Reporting to the Head and working closely with Governors, the CFO will lead financial strategy, operational performance and commercial development, ensuring the School's long-term sustainability and continued success.
Responsibilities:
- Strategic Leadership
- Support the development and delivery of the School's strategic plan, with a focus on financial sustainability and operational excellence.
- Provide strategic financial planning, forecasting and analysis to support informed decision-making.
- Contribute to organisational development, infrastructure planning and commercial growth initiatives.
- Financial Leadership
- Lead all aspects of financial management, including budgeting, forecasting, reporting, audit and risk management.
- Advise on fee strategy, procurement, investments and resource allocation.
- Maintain strong financial controls, cash-flow management and relationships with external advisers.
- Governance & Compliance
- Support effective governance and ensure compliance with relevant legal, regulatory and safeguarding requirements.
- Oversee policy review processes, risk management and inspection readiness.
- Advise senior leaders and Governors on governance and compliance matters.
- Estates & Operations
- Lead the strategic management of the School estate, including maintenance, sustainability initiatives and capital projects.
- Oversee operational support services including facilities, catering, transport, security and administration.
- Drive continuous improvement across systems, processes and service delivery.
- Commercial & External Relations
- Develop commercial opportunities and maximise income generation from School facilities and activities.
- Support fundraising and philanthropic initiatives alongside development and alumni teams.
- Represent the School with external partners, professional networks and community stakeholders.
- People & Culture
- Promote an inclusive, high-performing culture across operational functions.
- Support organisational development, workforce planning and staff wellbeing initiatives.
- Ensure effective safeguarding and safer recruitment practices are maintained.
- Digital & Risk Management
- Support the development of a forward-looking digital and IT strategy.
- Oversee cyber security, business continuity and data protection arrangements.
- Ensure operational and financial systems effectively support the School's strategic priorities.
About You:
- Qualifications & Experience
- Degree educated, with a relevant professional qualification desirable.
- Significant senior leadership experience within a complex organisation.
- Strong financial and commercial acumen, with experience in strategic planning, budgeting and operational leadership.
- Experience working with Boards, Governors or equivalent governance structures.
- Proven ability to lead organisational change and multi-disciplinary teams.
- Skills & Attributes
- Strategic, commercially minded and solutions-focused.
- Excellent communication and stakeholder-management skills.
- High levels of integrity, resilience and sound judgement.
- Collaborative leadership style with strong organisational and analytical capability.
- Commitment to safeguarding, inclusion and staff wellbeing.
What's on Offer:
- £100,000-£120,000
- Heavily discounted school fees
Next steps:
To register your interest for this CFO role and for a confidential discussion, please submit your CV via the apply button below.
CFO in Crewe employer: Succession Partners
As a leading independent school in Cheshire, we pride ourselves on fostering a collaborative and inclusive work culture that prioritises employee wellbeing and professional growth. Our commitment to strategic leadership and operational excellence not only ensures the school's long-term success but also offers our CFO the opportunity to make a meaningful impact while enjoying benefits such as heavily discounted school fees. Join us in shaping the future of education in a supportive environment that values innovation and community engagement.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land CFO in Crewe
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the education sector or finance world. A friendly chat can lead to opportunities that aren’t even advertised yet.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the school’s values and recent developments. Tailor your answers to show how your experience aligns with their mission and goals.
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t underestimate the power of follow-ups! After an interview, drop a thank-you email to express your appreciation and reiterate your enthusiasm for the role.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website for a smoother process! It shows you’re serious about the position and helps us keep track of your application more efficiently.
We think you need these skills to ace CFO in Crewe
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV reflects the skills and experiences that align with the CFO role. Highlight your strategic financial planning and leadership experience, as these are key for us at the school.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're the perfect fit for our independent school. Mention specific achievements that demonstrate your financial acumen and leadership style.
Showcase Your Governance Experience:Since governance is crucial for this role, be sure to include any relevant experience you have working with Boards or Governors. We want to see how you've contributed to effective governance in your past roles.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you don’t miss out on any important updates regarding the process.
How to prepare for a job interview at Succession Partners
✨Know Your Numbers
As a CFO, you'll need to demonstrate your financial acumen. Brush up on key financial metrics relevant to the school sector, such as budgeting, forecasting, and cash flow management. Be ready to discuss how you've successfully managed these areas in previous roles.
✨Understand the School's Vision
Familiarise yourself with the school's strategic plan and values. Show that you can align financial strategies with their long-term goals. This will not only impress the interviewers but also highlight your commitment to the institution's mission.
✨Prepare for Governance Questions
Expect questions about governance and compliance. Be prepared to discuss your experience working with Boards or Governors and how you've ensured compliance with legal and regulatory requirements. This shows your understanding of the broader context in which the school operates.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Style
The role requires a collaborative leadership style. Think of examples where you've led multi-disciplinary teams or driven organisational change. Highlight your ability to promote an inclusive culture and support staff wellbeing, as this aligns with the school's values.
