Finance Business Partner

Catholic Recruitment; Sefton; On-site; GBP 47,181 - 50,269; Full time

Job summary

Pope Francis Catholic Multi Academy Trust is seeking a Finance Business Partner to join the central finance function at a pivotal growth phase. You will produce management accounts, budgets, forecasts and financial reporting, working with Head of Finance, CFOO and school leaders to drive robust financial performance.

The role demands strong technical accounting expertise, excellent communication, and the ability to influence across multiple sites while safeguarding financial controls and

Qualifications

• ACCA/ACCA/CCAB qualified or equivalent, with school/Trust experience if no qualification.
• Proven experience producing management accounts, budgets and forecasts.
• Strong analytical and numerical skills with attention to detail.

Responsibilities

• Prepare accurate management accounts, budgets and forecasts for Trust schools.
• Provide high-quality financial guidance, insight and challenge to stakeholders.
• Support robust financial systems, processes and controls across the Trust.
• Collaborate with Head of Finance, CFOO and school leaders to ensure financial sustainability.

Skills

ACA/ACCA/CCAB Qualified Accountant

AAT Level 4

Management accounts

Budgets & forecasts

Variance analysis

Cashflow forecasting

Internal controls

Audit recommendations response

Education

ACA/ACCA/CCAB Qualification

AAT Level 4

Tools

Financial systems

Budgeting software

Job description

Start Date: To be confirmed

Pay Scale: NJC SCP 36-39 (£47,181-£50,269) per annum

Contract: Permanent, full time (36 hours per week)

Report to: Head of Finance

Location: Central Office with travel across Trust sites

Accountable to: CFOO

Pope Francis Catholic Multi Academy Trust is a family of Catholic schools, established by the Archbishop of Liverpool, at an exciting turning point in its development. We currently have four secondary schools and four primary schools, with a number of schools set to join the Trust this year as we grow significantly.

Inspired by the Gospel and the teachings of Pope Francis, we are united in our mission to provide the very best Catholic education that encourages every person to strive, achieve and flourish, mindful of the needs of others, with no one left behind. Our values of Joy, Mercy, Service, Dignity and Solidarity are not just words: they are our way of working, learning and being.

We understand that each school is unique and has its own distinctive community to serve. Our model is not transactional or one of entitlement, it is one of accompaniment, support and challenge within a family of schools. In the last twelve months we have seen real progress and momentum across our secondary phase, and we are excited by what we can still achieve.

About the Role

This is a key opportunity to join the central finance function at a pivotal time in our growth. The Finance Business Partner will play a critical role in supporting strong financial management across the Trust, ensuring schools receive high-quality financial guidance, insight and challenge.

You will work closely with the Head of Finance, CFOO, Headteachers and School Business Managers to deliver accurate management accounts, budgets, forecasts and financial reporting. You will also support the development of robust financial systems, processes and controls across a growing and evolving organisation.

This is a highly influential role requiring strong technical expertise, excellent communication skills, and the ability to build trusted relationships across multiple stakeholders. You will contribute directly to ensuring the long-term financial sustainability of our schools and the success of our pupils.

The Ideal Candidate Will:

• Be an ACA/ACCA/CCAB Qualified Accountant or AAT Level 4. To be considered without a qualification, candidates must have relevant school/Trust experience and be able to evidence strong management accounts preparation skills.
• Have substantial experience in producing management accounts, budgets, forecasts and variance analysis
• Be confident working with budget holders and school leaders to interpret financial performance and provide clear advice
• Have strong analytical and numerical skills with excellent attention to detail
• Be experienced in bank reconciliations, month-end processes, cashflow forecasting and financial systems
• Have experience of improving financial processes, internal controls and responding to audit recommendations
• Be confident in managing competing priorities in a fast-paced environment
• Be committed to safeguarding, equality and inclusion

How to Apply

To find out more and register your interest for the role, please visit Pope Francis Catholic Multi Academy Trust

If you have any questions or would like an informal conversation before the closing date, please contact Jennifer Crighton at [e-mail]

Key Dates

Closing date for applications: Friday 14th August 2026 at 9am

Interviews: Friday 21st August 2026

Safeguarding

Pope Francis CMAT is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. If successful in being appointed to a post, you will be expected to apply for a disclosure from the Disclosure and Barring Service as well as other employment checks before your appointment is confirmed. This post is subject to satisfactory references (requested prior to interview), an enhanced DBS check, medical check, evidence of qualifications and verification of the right to work in the UK.