At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead financial and operational strategies to enhance educational outcomes.
- Company: Tenax Schools Trust, a values-driven organisation with big ambitions.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, flexible working options, and a supportive culture.
- Other info: Join a community-focused trust committed to safeguarding and diversity.
- Why this job: Shape the future of education while driving organisational change and efficiency.
- Qualifications: Proven experience in strategic finance and leadership in complex environments.
The predicted salary is between 91158 - 100540 £ per year.
Working pattern: Full-time, year-round
Pay Scale: Leadership Scale £91,158 - £100,540 (L24 – L28)
Location: Office based (Tunbridge Wells), with work in schools and some flexibility to work from home
Closing date: 12:00 on 24 November 2025
About the role
Following the retirement of our current CFOO, we are able to offer this unique opportunity to shape the work of our trust. You will have a wide remit, that will directly impact on the educational outcomes of pupils and students. You will develop our shared services models, in pursuit of excellence, so teachers can teach and school leaders can lead in their areas of expertise. Our ambition to be more aligned and intentional in our operations is central to our mission to raise standards. You will be the most senior non-educationalist in the Trust. You will drive our work to be more effective and efficient, lead our People Strategy and plan for and lead our drive to be more data informed and automated.
What we are looking for
We are looking for an experienced senior leader with a track record of strategic finance and organisational planning in complex, multi-site environments. You will be able to see the big picture, whilst retaining an eye for detail. You will be able to lead the work of others, installing a customer service mentality and high standards across our shared services. You will be excited by the prospect of organisational change and have the knowledge and skills to manage this effectively. You will see opportunity, where others do not. You will see logical systems and processes across domains, where others see that things are working ‘for them’. You will say ‘we can and we will’, while others explore perceived barriers.
About Tenax Schools Trust
We are relatively small Church of England trust with big ambitions. We serve both the Diocese of Rochester and Chichester. We are proud to have a community school among the family of one secondary and seven primary schools. We have Diocesan consent for another local primary school to join us. Our work is enriched further through the work of the ‘Hub’; which comprises both the Kent Teaching School Hub (KTSH) and Teach Kent and Sussex (TK&S). As one of DfEs designated teaching school hubs we have a wide remit to train teachers, support new teachers and develop leaders through the NPQ programmes. Trust central staff are based at our secondary school, Bennett Memorial Diocesan School in Tunbridge Wells, Kent. We are a values driven organisation. How we do things matters. We are an ambitious organisation at an inflection point. Your work and its positive impact will transform the non-education spheres of our work. Leaders at Tenax Schools Trust share a commitment to each other as well as the organisation, providing a supportive culture.
Our Commitment
Tenax Schools Trust is committed to safeguarding, safer recruitment and promoting the welfare of pupils and expect all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. Our comprehensive recruitment and selection processes aim to discourage and screen out unsuitable applicants. Successful candidates are subject to rigorous pre-employment checks. We are equally committed to eliminating discrimination and encouraging diversity. We aim for our workforce to be representative of society and that each employee feels respected and able to give their best. We are committed to providing equality and fairness in our recruitment and employment practices and not to discriminate on any grounds. We oppose all forms of unlawful and unfair discrimination.
How to find out more and apply
For more information and an application form, please visit our microsite via the button below. We invite prospective candidates to arrange an informal discussion about the role and the Trust with Mark Cole, CEO – details on the microsite.
Chief Financial and Operations Officer employer: Tenax Schools Trust
At Tenax Schools Trust, we pride ourselves on being an excellent employer that values ambition, collaboration, and community impact. Located in the picturesque Tunbridge Wells, our supportive work culture fosters professional growth and innovation, allowing you to make a meaningful difference in the educational landscape. With a commitment to safeguarding and diversity, we ensure that every employee feels respected and empowered to excel in their roles.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Chief Financial and Operations Officer
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former employees at Tenax Schools Trust on LinkedIn. A friendly chat can give you insider info and show your genuine interest in the role.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by understanding their mission and values. Think about how your experience aligns with their goals, especially around organisational change and efficiency. We want to see that you’re not just a fit on paper!
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your leadership style! Be ready to discuss specific examples of how you've driven change and improved processes in previous roles. We love candidates who can demonstrate a customer service mentality and high standards.
✨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 ambitious team at Tenax Schools Trust.
We think you need these skills to ace Chief Financial and Operations Officer
Some tips for your application 🫡
Get to Know Us:Before you start your application, take a moment to explore our Trust and what we stand for. Understanding our values and mission will help you tailor your application to show how you can contribute to our goals.
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter to highlight your experience in strategic finance and organisational planning. We want to see how your skills align with our ambition to raise standards and drive efficiency.
Showcase Your Leadership Style:As a senior leader, it’s crucial to demonstrate your leadership approach. Share examples of how you've led teams through change and fostered a customer service mentality. We’re looking for someone who can inspire and motivate others!
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application via our microsite! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us directly. Plus, you can find more info and even arrange a chat with our CEO if you have questions.
How to prepare for a job interview at Tenax Schools Trust
✨Understand the Trust's Vision
Before your interview, take some time to really understand Tenax Schools Trust's mission and values. Familiarise yourself with their commitment to safeguarding and promoting welfare. This will help you align your answers with their goals and show that you're genuinely interested in making a positive impact.
✨Showcase Your Strategic Thinking
As a Chief Financial and Operations Officer, you'll need to demonstrate your ability to see the big picture while paying attention to detail. Prepare examples from your past experience where you've successfully implemented strategic finance and organisational planning in complex environments. Be ready to discuss how you can drive efficiency and effectiveness in their operations.
✨Emphasise Change Management Skills
Given the Trust's ambition for organisational change, it's crucial to highlight your experience in managing change effectively. Share specific instances where you've led teams through transitions, installed a customer service mentality, or improved processes. This will show that you can navigate challenges and inspire others to embrace change.
✨Prepare Thoughtful Questions
Interviews are a two-way street, so come prepared with insightful questions about the role and the Trust. Ask about their current challenges, future goals, or how they measure success in their shared services. This not only shows your interest but also helps you gauge if this is the right fit for you.
