Finance Manager

J.P. MORGAN; Sevenoaks; On-site; GBP 45,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

An esteemed independent school in west Kent is seeking an experienced Finance Manager to oversee financial operations. This all-year, full-time position involves leading budgeting, financial reporting, and compliance, while managing a small finance team. Ideal candidates will be fully qualified accountants with experience in the education or non-profit sectors. Benefits include competitive pension and 27 days leave.

Benefits

Free lunch during term time

Free parking

Competitive pension

27 days leave

Qualifications

• Proven experience in a finance leadership role, preferably in education or non-profit.
• Strong understanding of charity accounting and SORP.
• Ability to manage payroll, pensions, and HMRC submissions.

Responsibilities

• Lead day-to-day financial operations including budgeting and forecasting.
• Prepare and present financial statements to the leadership.
• Oversee annual audits and maintain accounting compliance.

Skills

Strong analytical skills

Excellent communication skills

Advanced Excel proficiency

Collaborative teamwork

Education

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

Tools

iFinance

ISAMS

Financial reporting software

Job description

Our client, an esteemed independent school in west Kent is seeking an experienced and strategicFinance Manager to oversee the school’s financial operations. This is a key leadership role responsible for ensuring sound financial management, regulatory compliance, and efficient budgetary planning to support the school’s long-term sustainability and growth.

Reporting to the Bursar and leading a small team of two, the Finance Manager is responsible for:

• Leading on the day-to-day financial operations, including budgeting, forecasting, financial reporting, and cash flow management.
• Support the Bursar in preparing and presenting monthly and annual financial statements to the Headteacher, Governors, and Finance Committee.
• Manage payroll, pensions, and HMRC submissions in collaboration with the HR team. Understanding VAT calculations, recovery and part exemptions
• Oversee the preparation for annual audits and liaise with external auditors.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant accounting standards, charity commission regulations, and school policies.
• Advise on financial strategy, investment planning, and risk management.
• Work closely with senior leadership to align financial planning with the school’s development objectives.
• Supervise and support the finance team to maintain a high standard of accuracy and efficiency.
• Maintain strong relationships with banks, insurers, and other external stakeholders.

The successful candidate will be:

• A fully qualified accountant (ACA, ACCA, CIMA, or equivalent).
• Bring proven experience in a finance leadership role, preferably within the education or non-profit sectors.
• Strong understanding of charity accounting and SORP.
• Excellent IT skills, including advanced Excel and financial software proficiency.
• Strong analytical, communication, and organisational skills.
• Ability to work collaboratively with a wide range of stakeholders.
• Experience in an independent or fee-paying school environment.
• Knowledge of school finance systems such as iFinance and ISAMS

You will be joining a collaborative team and a school which is entering the next stage of its ambitious commercial plans.

This is an all year through, on-site,full-time role.

Benefits include: free lunch during term time, free parking, competitive pension, 27 days leave.

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