Finance Manager: Alternative Provision (AP) - Burnley

https:/www.twrecruitment.com/; Burnley; On-site; GBP 23,000 - 28,000; Full time

Job summary

A community-focused educational institution in Burnley is seeking a dedicated Finance Manager to oversee financial operations, support vulnerable young people, and ensure compliance with regulations. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in finance within education settings and proficiency in accounting software. Enjoy a balanced work-life in the beautiful Lancashire area, with outdoor access. Apply by submitting your CV and cover letter.

Qualifications

• Proven experience in a finance role within a school or education setting.
• Desire to work directly supporting vulnerable young people in the community.
• Ability to manage financial systems effectively.

Responsibilities

• Oversee daily financial management including ledgers and reconciliations.
• Assist in preparing annual budgets and management reports.
• Ensure compliance with financial regulations and audit preparation.

Skills

High proficiency in accounting software

Exceptional organisational skills

Administrative skills

Tools

FMS

SAGE

Microsoft Excel

Job description

Job Description

Up to £28,000 (Commensurate with Experience) | Location: Burnley, Lancashire

Are you looking for a rewarding role in finance where your skills directly support young people in your local community? Do you value the great outdoors and a healthy work-life balance?

We are seeking a meticulous and proactive Finance Manager to lead the financial operations of our Alternative Provision (AP) in Burnley. This is a crucial role ensuring the financial health and compliance of a setting dedicated to supporting students who cannot access mainstream education due to medical or Social, Emotional, and Mental Health (SEMH) needs.

If you are a detail-oriented professional who wants to make a genuine difference and enjoys the beautiful Lancashire landscape, we want to hear from you!

Key Responsibilities: Local Finance, Real Impact

• Financial Management: Oversee the day-to-day management of all financial systems, including sales and purchase ledgers, income, expenditure, and bank reconciliations.
• Budgeting & Reporting: Assist the Headteacher in the preparation of annual budgets and multi-year forecasts. Produce accurate and timely management reports for the Senior Leadership Team and Governing Body, highlighting key variances and financial risks.
• Compliance: Ensure the AP adheres strictly to all financial regulations, including those set by the Local Authority/ESFA and the Academies Financial Handbook (where applicable).
• Procurement & Value for Money: Manage procurement processes, negotiate contracts (e.g., utilities, services), and ensure the AP achieves best value in all purchasing decisions to maximise funds for student provision.
• Payroll & Pensions: Coordinate and oversee the monthly payroll process and manage returns relating to staff pensions (e.g., Teachers' Pension Scheme, LGPS), working with external providers.
• Audit & Control: Prepare and coordinate all financial documentation for internal and external audits, maintaining robust and effective internal control systems.

Candidate Profile & Why Join Our Community?

• Experience: Proven experience in a finance role (e.g., Finance Manager, Finance Officer, or Business Administrator with financial focus), preferably within a school or education setting.
• Skills: High proficiency in accounting software (e.g., FMS, SAGE) and Microsoft Excel. Exceptional organisational and administrative skills.
• Community Focused: A desire to work within a local Burnley AP, directly supporting vulnerable young people and contributing positively to the area.
• Work-Life Balance: We actively encourage a healthy balance. If you enjoy the outdoors, you'll appreciate being based in Burnley, with easy access to the stunning countryside of the Pennines and the Forest of Bowland.

How to Apply

Ready to bring your financial expertise to our supportive team in Burnley?

Please click apply to view the full job specification and submit your CV and a covering letter to [e-mail]

Closing Date: Friday 28th November 2025 at 12pm.

We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. This post is subject to an enhanced DBS check and satisfactory references.