Financial Controller

• Location: Trust-wide, mostly remote.
• Job Type: Full-time, permanent
• Salary: Circa £75,000

We are seeking a Financial Controller to provide high-quality financial services that enable the Trust to achieve its strategic aims and objectives. This role involves overseeing financial accounting, maintaining a strong internal financial control framework, ensuring rigorous financial compliance processes, and promoting best practices within the finance function.

• Maintain and develop the financial reporting framework, including financial accounting, month-end processes, internal financial controls, and year-end financial statements.
• Manage financial compliance, including VAT, PAYE, and Corporation tax, and liaise with audit services.
• Oversee outsourced payroll services in conjunction with HR and line manage finance teams.
• Ensure effective operation of financial controls across the Trust and lead the relationship with the finance system provider.
• Update financial policies and procedures as required and manage the declaration of business interests process.
• Work closely with the Director of Estates and Facilities and Director of IT to ensure asset management processes are in place.
• Oversee purchase ledger processes, credit control processes, and authorisation of BACs and direct debits.
• Ensure balance sheet control account reconciliations are performed across the Trust.

• Professionally qualified accountant (ACA, ACCA, CIMA or equivalent) with strong post-qualification experience.
• Experience in running the financial accounting function for a large company with multiple branches or subsidiaries.
• Strong technical accounting knowledge and experience with financial systems, internal control environments, and liaising with auditors.
• Experience in school or academy financial management, or a similar position in the education sector.
• Advanced Excel skills, including pivot tables and macros, and proficiency in PS Financials accounting software.
• Excellent interpersonal skills, with the ability to build effective relationships and communicate effectively with various stakeholders.

• Competitive salary package.
• Opportunities for professional development and training.
• Supportive and collaborative work environment.

To apply for the Financial Controller position, please submit your CV and cover letter detailing your relevant experience and why you are interested in this role.