At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead financial management and strategic planning for a values-driven education trust.
- Company: Join Forward Education Trust, dedicated to improving outcomes for children and young people.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive salary, hybrid working, pension scheme, and professional development.
- Other info: Collaborative environment with opportunities for growth and continuous improvement.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in education while developing your finance career.
- Qualifications: Recognised accounting qualification and experience in management accounting required.
The predicted salary is between 44372 - 54745 £ per year.
About this Role
Forward Education Trust is seeking an exceptional Finance Lead to join our central team and play a key role in supporting the strategic and operational management of the Trust's finances. This is an exciting opportunity for a suitably qualified person, who is looking to make a meaningful difference within a values-driven organisation that is committed to improving outcomes for children and young people across our academies. Finance at this Trust is much more than just numbers – it’s about understanding what’s behind the numbers, making money work for us in the best way possible, for our children and staff.
Reporting to the Director of Finance & Operations, you will provide financial leadership across the Trust, leading on budgeting, forecasting, management reporting, compliance and financial planning. You will work closely with Headteachers, senior leaders and Trustees, providing high-quality financial insight to support effective decision‑making and long‑term sustainability.
As Finance Lead, you will:
- Lead the preparation and delivery of monthly management accounts across the Trust.
- Coordinate budgeting, forecasting and medium‑term financial planning.
- Provide strategic financial analysis, modelling and business partnering support to school and Trust leaders.
- Lead year‑end preparation, external audit activity and statutory financial returns.
- Oversee payroll reconciliations and key balance sheet controls.
- Support the development of robust financial systems, controls and reporting processes.
- Ensure compliance with academy, charity and financial regulations.
- Contribute to Trust‑wide strategic planning, growth and development initiatives.
This is a varied and influential role that combines operational finance expertise with strategic leadership and relationship management.
About You
We are looking for a highly motivated and professionally qualified person who can combine technical excellence with strong stakeholder engagement skills. You will have:
- A recognised accounting qualification (ACA, ACCA, CIMA, CIPFA or equivalent).
- Significant experience in management accounting, budgeting and forecasting.
- Experience of year‑end accounts preparation and working with auditors.
- Strong analytical skills and the ability to interpret complex financial information.
- Advanced Excel and financial modelling skills.
- The confidence to provide support, challenge and advice to senior leaders.
- Excellent communication and relationship‑building skills.
- A proactive approach to continuous improvement and problem solving.
Experience within an education or academy trust setting, or a charity, would be advantageous but is not essential.
Why Join Forward Education Trust?
At Forward Education Trust, we are committed to providing exceptional opportunities for our pupils and creating a collaborative and supportive environment for our staff. We offer:
- Competitive salary.
- Hybrid working arrangements.
- Membership of the Local Government Pension Scheme.
- Ongoing professional development and career progression opportunities.
- A supportive and collaborative leadership team.
- The opportunity to make a real impact across the Trust.
Safeguarding
Forward Education Trust is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. All appointments are subject to satisfactory pre‑employment checks, including an enhanced DBS check. Forward Education Trust is an equal opportunities employer and welcomes applications from all suitably qualified candidates.
Finance Lead in Birmingham employer: We Manage Jobs(WMJobs)
Walsall Council is an exceptional employer for Social Workers, offering a supportive environment that prioritises manageable workloads and professional development. With a recent 'Outstanding' OFSTED rating, employees benefit from flexible working arrangements, specialised clinical supervision, and a commitment to anti-discrimination and equality, ensuring a fulfilling career dedicated to making a difference in the lives of children and young people.
