Chief Financial Officer

• Job Type: part time or full time
• Location: Croydon

We are seeking a Chief Financial Officer (CFO) to lead our financial operations and ensure the highest standards of financial management across our Trust. The CFO will play a pivotal role in safeguarding public funds and enhancing the financial performance and strategic development of our organisation.

• Oversee all Trust finance departments, ensuring good financial management and compliance with ESFA Financial Regulations.
• Keep the CEO and Board informed of changes in Education Skills Funding Agency guidelines and provide strategic financial briefings.
• Monitor income and expenditure across the Trust, preparing necessary reports for the CEO and Trust Board.
• Address complex financial enquiries and prepare monthly management reports, as well as termly reports for various committees and governing bodies.
• Ensure compliance with the academy’s financial systems and procedures, and provide support to the CEO, Principals, and Head Teachers.
• Review and follow the Trust’s financial systems and processes, maintaining strategic financial plans and annual budgets using Access software.
• Manage the Trust’s finance system (PS Financials - PSF) and provide guidance to finance staff within the Trust.
• Oversee and ensure authorisation of purchase orders and BACS runs in accordance with the Trust’s Finance policy.
• Prepare ad hoc financial reports and work closely with HR and payroll providers to ensure accurate salary payments.
• Act as the lead point of contact for the Trust’s Accountants/Auditors and Internal Auditors and prepare documentation for Year End.
• Monitor income and expenditure for various grants and ensure compliance with external reporting requirements.

• Proven experience as a CFO or in a similar senior financial managerial position within the education sector.
• Strong understanding of ESFA Financial Regulations and financial management in an educational trust setting.
• Ability to produce accurate financial reports and forecasts, and to manage complex budgets.
• Experience with financial systems such as PS Financials (PSF) and proficiency in Access software.
• Excellent leadership skills with the ability to manage and develop a finance team.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to engage with a range of stakeholders.
• Commitment to professional development and staying current with financial regulations and best practices.

• Competitive salary and benefits package.
• Opportunity to lead and shape the financial strategy of a dynamic educational trust.
• Access to professional development opportunities and training.
• A supportive and collaborative working environment.

To apply for this Chief Financial Officer position, please submit your CV and cover letter detailing your relevant experience and why you are interested in this role to