Our client is an educational establishment that is looking for an experienced Finance Manager to join their team on a permanent term time basis (plus 2 weeks).

This role would suit someone who has previous experience of day to day management of the finance function in a busy environment and ideally someone who is AAT qualified, or working towards a professional accountancy qualification.

Finance Manager - About The Role

The Finance Manager will manage the finance functions of the school under the direction of the School Business Manager. They will deliver highly effective support services in line with the overall strategy and priorities of the school ensuring statutory accounting and compliance.

Key responsibilities:

Oversee the efficient operation of the Finance Department, ensuring compliance with financial policies and procedures
Collaborate with accountants on the preparation and filing of annual company and charity accounts, while maintaining records in accordance with data protection laws
Work with the School Business Manager (SBM) to develop and monitor procurement processes, ensuring cost-effectiveness and value for money
Manage the Xero accounting system, ensuring it meets the school's evolving needs and maintaining accurate financial records, including month-end and year-end reconciliations
Produce regular financial reports for senior leadership, governors, and trustees, and conduct financial analysis to inform strategic decision-making
Administer the school’s banking, credit cards, and parent payment systems, ensuring monthly reconciliations and effective cash flow management
Oversee procurement processes, ensuring compliance with the school’s financial policies, and manage spending to identify cost-saving opportunities
Manage school fee administration and invoicing, following up on outstanding payments and liaising with Local Authorities regarding fee invoicing
Manage the school’s pension schemes, liaising with the Teachers' Pension Agency and NEST for staff pensions, and ensuring timely submission of pension returns and ONS reports

The successful Finance Manager will have/be:

AAT qualified (or studying towards accounting qualification)
Experience of management and financial accounting
Knowledge of accounting standards
Strong IT skills, particularly Excel skills
Excellent interpersonal and communication skills
High level of accuracy and attention to detail
Organised with excellent time management skills

Howett Thorpe are acting as a recruitment agency in relation to this role and comply with all relevant UK legislation and do not discriminate on any protected characteristics. Due to the high volume of applications we currently receive, we are unable to respond to all candidates. If you do not hear from a Consultant within 5 working days, please assume that you have not been successful.

Refer a friend

If this job is not of interest to you, but you know a friend or colleague who may be interested, recommend them to us and receive a minimum of £150 in vouchers if we assist them in securing a permanent role and a minimum of £25 in vouchers if we place them in a temporary assignment. (Terms & conditions apply)