Sewell Wallis is excited to partner with a reputable education provider in Sheffield to recruit an Interim Finance Director for a six-month fixed-term contract. This is an exceptional opportunity for an experienced Finance Director or CFO to provide crucial financial leadership and support to the senior leadership team within a South Yorkshire Multi-Academy Trust, which includes primary, secondary, sixth form, and a unique post-16 provision.

As Interim Finance Director, you'll play a key role in guiding the organisation through year-end processes, taking ownership of the annual budget setting, managing a finance team of eight, and ensuring a seamless transition for the incoming permanent hire, expected around Easter. Additionally, you'll oversee critical developments in the organisation's ERP systems, making prior experience with ERP transitions or implementations highly desirable.

What will you be doing?

• Leading and managing a finance team of eight, ensuring effective workflow and team cohesion.
• Overseeing the change and development of the ERP system, supporting key process improvements.
• Preparing a detailed and comprehensive handover for the incoming permanent Finance Director.
• Leading the annual budget setting process and financial planning for the organisation.
• Collaborating with senior stakeholders to ensure effective budgetary control and informed decision-making.
• Analysing P&L performance and providing strategic insights to the Board and Senior Leadership Team.
• Managing the year-end close process and liaising with external auditors.
• Ensuring robust financial controls are in place and adhered to throughout the organisation.

What skills are we looking for?

• Experience working with a Trust is essential.
• Fully qualified accountant (ACCA / ACA / CIMA).
• Proven experience in leadership with a transparent, ethical leadership style.
• Strong team management and people leadership skills.
• Excellent communication and stakeholder engagement capabilities.
• In-depth financial acumen with a focus on strategic analysis and budgeting.
• Demonstrated experience in budgeting and financial planning within the education sector.

What's on offer?

• Immediate start with a six-month fixed-term contract.
• Competitive salary of up to £90,000 (pro-rata) or equivalent day rate.
• Private healthcare.
• Matched pension contributions.
• Hybrid working arrangement.

If you're an experienced finance leader looking for a fulfilling interim role within the education sector, we'd love to hear from you. Please submit your CV below or contact Inci Evcil for more information.