Base pay range

Direct message the job poster from Marks Sattin

Salary: £55,000 – £61,000 per annum + excellent pension and benefits

Type: Permanent (Hybrid)

Travel: Monthly travel to schools and Trust sites

About the Role

A forward-thinking Multi-Academy Trust is seeking a strategic and hands-on Head of Finance to lead its financial operations and stewardship. Reporting directly to the CEO, this pivotal role will ensure robust financial management, compliance, and strategic planning across the Trust and its schools. As a key member of the Trust Leadership Team, you’ll help shape long-term strategy while safeguarding financial sustainability and value for money.

Main Responsibilities

• Lead the Trust’s financial strategy and ensure alignment with DfE guidelines and the Trust Handbook
• Prepare monthly management accounts and performance summaries
• Oversee budget setting, forecasting, and reserve management across the Trust
• Act as the primary contact for internal and external audits
• Complete all statutory DfE submissions (e.g. budget forecasts, annual accounts, gender pay gap)
• Support governance through board reporting and attendance at committee meetings
• Lead financial risk assessment and maintain relevant sections of the risk register
• Line manage the Senior Academy Finance Officer and support performance management of School Business Managers
• Administer the Trust’s reserve bid process and advise on strategic fund allocation
• Manage the DfE apprenticeship portal and respond to financial SARs and FOIs

Skills and Qualifications

• Recognised accountancy qualification (ACA, ACCA, CIMA, CIPFA)
• Proven professional development experience at the Head of Finance/Senior Management level
• Advanced Excel and financial modelling capabilities
• Experience working in an academy Trust would be preferred but not essential

The Trust is committed to fostering an inclusive and supportive working environment. We welcome applications from all backgrounds and communities, and value diversity as a strength.

Seniority level

• Director

Employment type

• Full-time

Job function

• Accounting/Auditing, Finance, and General Business
• Industries
• Staffing and Recruiting, Primary and Secondary Education, and Education