At a Glance
- Tasks: Provide financial reporting and support to the Senior Leadership Team and Board of Trustees.
- Company: Highcrest Academy, dedicated to staff wellbeing and flexible working.
- Benefits: Enjoy a 9-day working fortnight and flexible work options.
- Other info: Join a small, experienced team with a commitment to safeguarding children.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in education finance while enjoying a great work-life balance.
- Qualifications: Experience in finance, teamwork skills, and a love for spreadsheets.
The predicted salary is between 40000 - 50000 £ per year.
Work Hours and Flexibility
Since September 2024, all permanent staff at Highcrest have benefitted from a 9‑day working fortnight. You attend work for nine days and receive pay for ten. The tenth day is your dedicated ‘Reset Day’ – time away from school to catch up on your to‑do list, recharge, and invest in your well‑being. As part of our dedication to staff wellbeing, this role is offered on a flexible basis. The nature of the role will require set times of each month where on‑site presence may be needed, but we commit to annualised hours and the option to work from home, ensuring flexibility for the right candidate.
Responsibilities
- Provide an efficient and effective financial reporting service to the academy’s Senior Leadership Team and Board of Trustees on all financial and related matters.
- Prepare statutory reports for the Department for Education (DfE) in line with the procedures and timetables set out in the Academies Financial Handbook and annual Accounts Directions.
- Maintain close liaison with the Board of Trustees and external auditors as necessary.
Qualifications
The finance team is small but experienced. We are looking for someone who works well with others, ideally has experience in the education sector, is confident with numbers and loves a spreadsheet. A sense of humour and the ability to take the lead on all things financial are must‑haves.
Safeguarding & Employment Requirements
The Highcrest Academy is fully committed to safeguarding children. All members of staff are in a regulated role under the Vetting & Barring Scheme and must be DBS cleared prior to employment.
Finance Manager / Accountant in High Wycombe employer: The Highcrest Academy
Highcrest Academy is an exceptional employer that prioritises staff wellbeing and work-life balance, offering a unique 9-day working fortnight alongside flexible working arrangements. With a supportive and collaborative finance team, employees are encouraged to grow professionally while contributing to the academy's mission of providing quality education. The culture at Highcrest fosters a sense of community, making it an ideal place for those seeking meaningful and rewarding employment in the education sector.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Finance Manager / Accountant in High Wycombe
✨Tap into Campus Networks
If you're still in uni, don’t forget to engage with your campus's career services and attend finance-related events. Banks often do presentations and recruitment drives on campus, so put yourself out there and make use of these opportunities to show off your passion for the field.
✨Get Certified
Consider pursuing relevant certifications like the CFA or ACCA while you’re job hunting. They not only beef up your CV but also connect you with professional bodies which can lead to networking opportunities and even job openings in banking and financial services.
✨Connect on Professional Platforms
Join finance-focused groups on platforms like LinkedIn and engage in discussions. This can really help you stand out from the crowd, allowing potential employers to see your knowledge and interest in industry trends. Plus, you might stumble upon job postings shared exclusively within the group.
✨Apply Directly and Be Proactive
Don’t shy away from reaching out directly to firms like The Highcrest Academy. Use their websites and apply through them, but also consider following up with a polite email to express your enthusiasm. Being proactive can make a huge difference in getting noticed in the competitive financial services sector.
We think you need these skills to ace Finance Manager / Accountant in High Wycombe
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Numbers!:In the banking and financial services world, quantifiable achievements are key. Make sure your CV highlights your grades in relevant subjects, any financial certifications you hold, and specific projects where you've delivered measurable results. Employers love to see how your skills translate into real-world success.
Tailor Your Cover Letter to the Role:When applying for a full-time position, your cover letter should make a direct connection between your experience and the job description. Don't just state your enthusiasm for finance—dive into how your background in banking or financial analysis sets you apart. Let your passion shine through while being specific about what you can bring to The Highcrest Academy.
Include Relevant Financial Software Experience:If you've worked with financial modelling tools or software like Excel, SAP, or specific analytical tools during your studies or internships, bring that up! Highlighting your proficiency can really make your application pop and show you're ready to hit the ground running in a full-time role.
Research and Reflect:Before hitting that 'apply' button on The Highcrest Academy's website, do a little digging. Look up their recent projects, values, and culture. Reflecting their ethos in your application can make a huge difference and show you’re genuinely interested in being part of the team!
How to prepare for a job interview at The Highcrest Academy
✨Brush Up on Financial Analysis Skills
Make sure you're well-versed in financial concepts and analytical techniques relevant to banking and financial services. Get comfortable with tools like Excel for modelling or financial forecasting, as technical questions in this area are common during interviews with The Highcrest Academy.
✨Prepare for Case Studies
Expect to tackle case studies that demonstrate your problem-solving skills in real-world banking scenarios. Familiarise yourself with the types of problems you might face—think risk assessments or investment evaluations—and be ready to articulate your thought process clearly.
✨Show Your Passion for Finance
Since this is a full-time position, employers at The Highcrest Academy will be keen to see your genuine interest in finance. Be prepared to discuss recent industry trends or news articles that excite you, showcasing your enthusiasm and engagement with the field.
✨Network with Industry Professionals
Before your interview, reach out to current or former The Highcrest Academy employees on platforms like LinkedIn. They'll offer unique insights into the company's culture and the interview process, which can give us a delightful edge in showcasing a good fit for the team.
