Chief Financial Officer (CFO)

Are you a strategic and experienced finance leader seeking a pivotal role as Chief Financial Officer (CFO) at a thriving academy in Preston? Do you possess exceptional financial acumen and a passion for contributing to educational excellence? If so, we invite you to apply!

About Fulwood Academy:

Working at Fulwood Academy in Preston offers a compelling opportunity to join a school on a positive trajectory, evidenced by their recent "Good" Ofsted rating which highlights an inclusive culture where both pupils and staff are valued. With a commitment to staff development and exciting plans for the future, Fulwood Academy provides avenues for professional growth within a school focused on raising standards. Furthermore, the academy boasts excellent facilities and a commitment to utilising technology to enhance teaching and learning, creating a well–resourced and dynamic workplace.

The Role:

We are seeking a highly strategic and commercially astute Chief Financial Officer (CFO) to join our senior leadership team. Reporting directly to the CEO/Headteacher, you will be responsible for the overall financial health and sustainability of the academy/trust. This is a key leadership role requiring a strong understanding of financial management within the education sector & exceptional communication skills.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Develop and implement the academy's/trust's financial strategy, ensuring alignment with its overall objectives.
2. Oversee all aspects of financial management, including budgeting, forecasting, financial reporting, and treasury management.
3. Ensure compliance with all relevant financial regulations and statutory requirements within the UK education sector.
4. Provide strategic financial advice and guidance to the CEO/Headteacher, Board of Trustees/Governors, and senior leadership team.
5. Prepare and present financial reports to the Board of Trustees/Governors and relevant stakeholders.
6. Manage relationships with external auditors, bankers, and other financial institutions.
7. Oversee payroll, pensions, and procurement processes.
8. Stay abreast of changes in financial regulations and best practices within the education sector.

About You:

1. Qualified Accountant (ACA, ACCA, CIMA or equivalent) with significant post–qualification experience.
2. Proven track record of success in a senior financial leadership role, ideally as a CFO or Deputy CFO.
3. Strong understanding of financial management within the academy/multi–academy trust sector in the UK.
4. Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to present complex financial information clearly and concisely to both financial and non–financial audiences.
5. Strong leadership and management skills.

Desirable:

1. Experience working with academy financial management systems (e.g., PS Financials).
2. Knowledge of charity accounting regulations.
3. Understanding of the educational funding landscape in the UK.

Location: Preston, Lancashire

Contract Type: Permanent.

Salary: Grade 14, Scale Point 61 – 66 ( 73,580 – 80,468).

Start Date: ASAP.

Benefits:

1. Make a significant impact on the financial sustainability and educational success of the organisation.
2. Dunstone Education Trust contract which includes 3 additional days leave per annum in recognition of the need for flexibility.
3. Limited homeworking in line with business need.

How to Apply:

If you are a highly motivated and experienced finance professional seeking a challenging and rewarding CFO opportunity in a Preston academy, we encourage you to apply. Please submit your CV and a compelling cover letter outlining your relevant experience and why you are interested in this role to (url removed). Please include "CFO Application – Preston Academy" in the subject line.

Closing Date for Applications: 30th April 2025.

Fulwood Academy is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. The successful candidate will be subject to an enhanced DBS check.