Accountant / Head of Financial Planning & Analysis

KINGS COLLEGE SCHOOL; Greater London; On-site; GBP 65,000 - 85,000; Full time

Job summary

A prestigious educational institution in Greater London is seeking a qualified Head of Financial Planning and Analysis (FP&A). This pivotal full-time role involves delivering high-quality financial reporting, budgeting, and forecasting. The candidate will lead the transition to a new finance system and enhance reporting capabilities. Ideal candidates should have extensive experience in financial management, especially within education, along with advanced Excel skills. The position offers opportunities for professional growth while contributing to a successful school environment.

Benefits

Professional development opportunities

Vibrant working environment

Qualifications

• Fully qualified accountant with extensive FP&A experience, ideally in education or public sector.
• Strong technical skills in budgeting, forecasting, and financial management.
• Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Excel including financial modelling.

Responsibilities

• Lead month-end closure process for accurate management accounts.
• Prepare monthly payroll cost reconciliations and year-end forecasts.
• Develop reporting packs with modern financial tools.

Skills

Budgeting

Forecasting

Financial analysis

Advanced Excel

Communication skills

Education

Fully qualified accountant (ACA, ACCA, CIMA or equivalent)

Tools

Financial reporting tools

Microsoft Excel

Job description

We are seeking a qualified and experienced finance professional to join our Finance Department as Head of Financial Planning and Analysis (FP&A). This is a new and pivotal senior role, responsible for delivering high-quality financial reporting, budgeting, and forecasting across the school. The successful candidate will play a key role in embedding a newly implemented finance system and supporting the rollout of enhanced financial reporting and a new purchase order system. This is a full-time role working 40 hours per week.

Key responsibilities

Budgeting, Forecasting & Reporting:

• Lead the month-end closure process to ensure accurate and timely management accounts.
• Prepare monthly payroll cost reconciliations and full-year pay forecasts.
• Produce management accounts with detailed variance analysis and commentary.
• Design and develop reporting packs using modern financial tools and technology.
• Monitor and report on capital projects and large capex spend.
• Manage the annual budgeting and forecasting process for designated budget holders.
• Support the Finance Director in consolidating the school-wide budget and long-term financial forecasts.
• Maintain and update cost centre approval workflows to reflect organisational changes.
• Enhance budget holders' financial understanding through training and ongoing support.
• Act as the primary finance contact for assigned departments, providing financial guidance.
• Undertake financial analysis and reporting for strategic initiatives as required.
• Support the Finance Director and senior leadership team with special projects and requests.

Systems, Technology & Process Improvement:

• Demonstrate strong IT skills, including advanced proficiency in Microsoft Excel (e.g., pivot tables, Power Query, financial modelling).
• Use financial systems and reporting tools to automate and streamline reporting processes.
• Champion the transition to a paperless finance environment.
• Lead the rollout of a new purchase order system, working closely with stakeholders.
• Continuously improve financial processes and reporting capabilities.

Financial Accounting:

• Collaborate with other finance department members on financial accounting tasks as needed.
• Assist with year-end processes and preparation of financial statements.
• Respond to audit queries and prepare supporting documentation.

Teamwork & Communication:

• Foster a collaborative and service-oriented culture within the Finance Department.
• Participating actively in departmental and school wide events and meetings.
• Build strong relationships with internal stakeholders to support financial decision-making.

PERSON SPECIFICATION

Essential:

• Fully qualified accountant (ACA, ACCA, CIMA or equivalent).
• Proven experience in a senior FP&A role, ideally within an education or public sector setting.
• Strong technical skills in budgeting, forecasting, and financial analysis.
• Advanced Excel skills and confidence working with financial systems and reporting tools.
• Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills.
• Ability to lead change and improve financial processes.

Desirable:

• Experience with finance system implementations.
• Knowledge of capital project reporting and long-term financial planning.
• Familiarity with governance structures in educational institutions.

King's is one of the most successful schools in the world, with outstanding academic results, first-class pastoral care and a vibrant co-curriculum. Overlooking Wimbledon Common, the school is situated in one of the most attractive parts of south east England and benefits from exceptional grounds and facilities.

Closing date: Wednesday 3 rd December 2025 at 9am.

Interview date to be confirmed

To apply for this role, please register your details online via our website (under useful information / career opportunities). Once you have registered your details with us, you can apply for vacancies by logging into the candidate area using your email address and chosen password. You will be asked to fill an online application form.

This post is exempt from the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act (ROA) 1974.

King's is fully committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and expects all staff to share this commitment. Applicants will be required to undergo child protection screening appropriate to the post, including checks with past employers and the Disclosure and Barring Service. King's College School is fully committed to the principles of equality, diversity and inclusivity in its recruitment of teaching and support staff.