Finance Manager

Connaught Resourcing Ltd (Education); England; On-site; GBP 55,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

An independent preparatory school in Berkshire seeks a Finance Manager to oversee financial operations and lead a finance team. The ideal candidate will have 3-5 years of finance experience, ACCA or CIMA qualification, and strong analytical skills. This role offers a competitive salary and additional benefits, contributing to a supportive school community.

Benefits

Competitive salary

Generous pension and life insurance

Fee discount for staff children

Smart Health and Windsor Leisure Centre membership

Lunch and snacks provided

Training and professional development opportunities

Qualifications

• 3-5 years' experience in a finance environment.
• Proven ability to manage and develop a small team.
• Experience in an independent school setting is desirable.

Responsibilities

• Lead the school's financial operations and reporting.
• Oversee payroll and financial compliance.
• Advise senior leadership on financial strategy.
• Monitor income, expenditure, and produce forecasts.

Skills

Analytical skills

Attention to detail

Digital skills in Excel, Word, and Outlook

Communication skills

Education

ACCA or CIMA qualified (or equivalent)

Job description

Finance Manager - Independent Prep School, Berkshire

Location: Berkshire
Salary: 55,000 - 70,000 (depending on experience)
Contract: Permanent, Term-time plus 8 weeks
Hours: 8:00am - 5:00pm (40 hours per week)
Start Date: ASAP

Our client, a highly regarded independent preparatory school in Berkshire, is seeking a skilled and adaptable Finance Manager to join their established and supportive team.

This is an exceptional opportunity for an analytical, detail-focused finance professional who enjoys working in a dynamic educational environment and wants to make a meaningful contribution to a school community with a proud heritage and strong sense of family.

The Role

The Finance Manager will lead the school's financial operations, working closely with the Head and Council of Management on all matters of financial planning, policy, and reporting. You'll oversee a small finance team, ensuring accuracy, compliance, and strategic insight across all aspects of the school's finances.

Key responsibilities include:

• Managing all aspects of financial operations, budgeting, and reporting
• Advising senior leadership on financial strategy and policy
• Monitoring income and expenditure, producing accurate forecasts and reports
• Overseeing payroll, VAT submissions, and financial compliance
• Managing financial risk across the school
• Leading and supporting two Assistant Finance Managers
• Contributing to wider school life, including assisting with events and administrative support when required

The Ideal Candidate

• ACCA or CIMA qualified (or equivalent)
• 3-5 years' experience in a finance environment
• Strong digital and analytical skills, with proficiency in Microsoft Excel, Word, and Outlook
• Proven ability to manage and develop a small team
• High attention to detail and accuracy in financial reporting
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
• Experience in an independent school setting (desirable)
• A proactive, hands-on attitude and willingness to contribute beyond the finance remit

What the School Offers

• Competitive salary
• Term-time plus 8 weeks contract
• Generous pension and life insurance
• Fee discount for staff children
• Smart Health and Windsor Leisure Centre membership
• Lunch, snacks, and refreshments provided during term time
• Training and professional development opportunities
• Supportive, friendly, and collaborative working culture

If you have the required skills and experience to be considered for this post, we welcome an application from you. For further details, contact Joseph at Connaught Education.

We are a committed equal opportunities employer who respect and value cultural diversity. We are committed to supporting the welfare of children and young people. In support of current Safeguarding legislation we will carry out background checks and an Enhanced DBS Disclosure as part of our recruitment and selection procedures.