Finance Consultant

Judicium; Greater London; Hybrid; GBP 80,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading education support services company is seeking a Finance Consultant to guide schools in managing finances effectively. The role includes preparing financial plans, supporting budgeting, and training school leaders on finance systems. Candidates should possess substantial experience in finance consultancy, ideally within the education sector, with strong communication and stakeholder management skills. This position offers flexibility in working arrangements and ample annual leave, fostering a supportive culture focused on personal and professional growth.

Benefits

36 days annual leave

Hybrid or remote working

Flexible benefits package

Learning & development opportunities

Qualifications

• Proven experience in a finance consultancy or advisory role, ideally in education.
• Solid working knowledge of school finance systems and procedures.
• Proactive communicator with strong interpersonal and stakeholder management skills.

Responsibilities

• Preparing and advising on short- and long-term financial plans.
• Supporting budget setting, forecasting, and financial reporting.
• Training school leaders and governors on finance systems and compliance.

Skills

Finance consultancy experience

Knowledge of school finance systems

Communication skills

Stakeholder management

Attention to detail

Tools

PS Financials/IRIS

Sage

FMS

Access

Xero

Arbor Finance

Job description

Vacancy Name: Finance Consultant Vacancy Number: VN2219 Location City: London Employment Type: Permanent

About us

Are you a confident finance professional with experience in the education sector and a passion for systems and service excellence? Join School Business Services (SBS) - a trusted leader in education support services - and help schools and academies achieve financial clarity and efficiency.

We're expanding our talented team of Finance Consultants and are looking for someone who can blend technical expertise with outstanding client service.

Who Are We?

At SBS, we support schools and trusts across the UK with a full suite of services, including Finance, HR & Payroll, ICT, and MIS. Our teams are known for their deep sector knowledge, collaborative approach, and practical support that makes a real difference to the day-to-day running of education settings.

About the Role

As a Finance Consultant, you'll play a pivotal role in helping schools and academies manage their finances efficiently, meet statutory deadlines, and adopt best-practice financial systems. You'll work closely with school leaders, governors, and your SBS colleagues - on-site and remotely - to deliver expert support tailored to each school's needs.

What You'll Be Doing

• Preparing and advising on short- and long-term financial plans.
• Supporting budget setting, forecasting, and financial reporting.
• Training school leaders and governors on finance systems and compliance.
• Assisting schools with their month-end processes and financial monitoring reports.
• Preparing and submitting financial returns to Local Authorities.
• Providing strategic advice on contracts, procurement, risk, and compliance.
• Helping schools identify opportunities for improved financial efficiency.
• Working with a range of finance systems, including PS Financials/IRIS, Sage, FMS, Access, Xero, and Arbor Finance.

Please note that this role involves remote, home-working.

About You

• Proven experience in a finance consultancy or advisory role - ideally in education.
• Solid working knowledge of school finance systems and procedures.
• A proactive communicator with strong interpersonal and stakeholder management skills.
• Experience working with accounting systems and enthusiasm for using tech to improve efficiency.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a collaborative, supportive team.
• Excellent attention to detail, problem-solving mindset, and a passion for making a difference in schools.
• Willingness to undergo an Enhanced DBS check and proof of Right to Work in the UK.

What we Offer

• 36 days annual leave (28 days + 8 bank holidays), plus one extra day for every year of service (up to 5 additional days).
• Hybrid or remote working available, with national coverage.
• Supportive and inclusive culture with ongoing learning & development opportunities.
• Flexible benefits package, including:
  • Ability to purchase additional annual leave.
  • Opportunities to grow within a dynamic and expanding business.

At SBS, we celebrate diversity, champion flexibility, and believe in empowering our team to deliver their best. If you're ready to bring your skills to a role that genuinely supports education, we'd love to hear from you.