School Finance Manager ~ Ofsted Good Secondary School

£39,800.00 - £52,980.00

Permanent & Full Time

Surrey

Are you a finance professional looking for a promotional opportunity education sector? If so, you will be keen to learn that my client school is seeking a strategic and detail-oriented Finance Manager to oversee their financial operations, ensure compliance, and contribute to the long-term success of the school community.

The Position Of Finance Manager

The Finance Manager will be responsible for overseeing the financial health of the school, ensuring compliance with financial regulations and providing strategic financial guidance to the Senior Leadership Team. This role requires expertise in financial management, budgeting, and accounting, along with strong communication skills to engage with stakeholders, including school administrators, teachers, parents, and external auditors.

Key Responsibilities

Financial Management

Establish and maintain financial systems to ensure efficient financial operations and commercial activities.
Develop and monitor the annual school budget in collaboration with the Head and Governing Body.
Prepare financial reports, ensuring accurate tracking of income and expenditure.
Manage financial audits and liaise with external auditors.
Oversee financial policies, ensuring compliance and best practices.
Monitor and control costs, ensuring accurate reconciliation of funding and income.
Manage procurement processes, ensuring best value for money.
Provide financial oversight for commercial activities, including external lettings and holiday clubs.
Ensure financial reporting to Subject Leaders and Senior Leadership Team, highlighting budget variances.
Secure funding for capital projects, working with local authorities and other funders.
Oversee school fund donations and ensure annual Gift Aid claims are submitted.
Manage school trips accounts to prevent financial losses.

Insurance & Asset Management

Act as the primary contact for the school’s insurance providers.
Ensure adequate insurance coverage and oversee claims processing.
Maintain the school’s asset register and oversee procurement of contract services.
Review and negotiate service contracts to ensure cost-effectiveness.
Explore fundraising opportunities, including grant applications.

Payroll Management

Oversee payroll processes in collaboration with the HR Officer.
Ensure accurate processing of salaries, overtime, and pension contributions.
Address payroll-related queries from staff.
Manage the Apprenticeship Levy Account efficiently.

Leadership & Development

Line manage the finance team, ensuring effective financial administration.
Contribute to the School Development Plan, ensuring financial feasibility of initiatives.
Attend relevant meetings, including Governor sub-committee and Leadership Meetings.
Maintain professional development, staying informed on best practices in school finance.

Person Specification

Essential:

Bachelor's degree in Finance, Accounting, or a related field.
Strong knowledge of financial regulations and accounting principles.
Proficiency in financial software and Microsoft Office Suite.
Excellent analytical, organizational, and problem-solving skills.
Ability to work independently and collaboratively.
Strong ethical standards and integrity.
Experience in budgeting, financial forecasting, and audits.
Effective communication and leadership skills.

Desirable:

Professional certification (e.g., ACCA, ACA, CIMA).
Minimum of five years’ experience in financial management.
Experience within an educational setting.
Knowledge of payroll processing and tax regulations.

Safeguarding

The successful candidate will be subject to an enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check. This school is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and expects all staff to share this commitment.