Finance Manager Needed For Primary School In Sheffield – Immediate Start

Marchant Recruitment; Sheffield; On-site; GBP 42,000 - 56,000; Full time

Job summary

Sheffield Primary School is seeking a Finance Manager to lead its school business and financial operations. This full-time, permanent role covers budgeting, procurement, accounting, and governance reporting to ensure transparent use of resources.

The role sits on the operational leadership team with the Headteacher and Governors. Experience in public/education sectors and CSBM/DSBM or equivalent qualifications are preferred.

Qualifications

• Budget & financial management: manage annual budget, forecasts, variance reports and year-end accounts.
• Accounting & payroll: oversee ledgers, invoicing, bank reconciliations, VAT returns and payroll processing.
• Procurement & compliance: ensure regulatory compliance and best-value procurement for supplies and contracts.
• Funding & grants: manage Pupil Premium, Sports Premium, and local authority/trust grants with proper reporting.
• Qualifications & skills: CSBM/DSBM, AAT/ACCA or equivalent; proficient with school financial software and a DBS check.

Responsibilities

• Prepare, monitor and manage the annual school budget with monthly forecasts.
• Oversee day-to-day accounting functions including ledgers, invoicing and payroll.
• Ensure compliance with financial regulations, audits, and procurement guidelines.
• Manage funding streams and reporting for grants and subsidies.
• Maintain DBS checks and use SIMS/FMS/Access Education effectively.

Skills

Budget & financial management

Procurement & compliance

Payroll processing

Attention to detail

Strategic planning

Education

CSBM/DSBM qualification

AAT/ACCA certification

Tools

SIMS

FMS

Access Education

Job description

Salary: Grade 7 / 8 (Dependent on experience)

Role Overview

A friendly and well-regarded primary school in Sheffield is seeking a detail-oriented and experienced Finance Manager to lead its school business and financial operations. This full-time, permanent position involves overseeing the day-to-day financial management, budget planning, procurement, and accounting procedures to ensure the school's resources are managed effectively and transparently.

Working as a key member of the school's operational leadership team alongside the Headteacher and Board of Governors, you will play a vital role in strategic financial planning. The position is ideal for an experienced school finance officer, an school business manager (SBM), or an accounting professional with experience in the public or education sector.

Key Responsibilities & Requirements

• Budget & Financial Management: Prepare, monitor, and manage the annual school budget, producing accurate monthly forecasts, variance reports, and year-end accounts for the Headteacher and Governors.
• Accounting & Payroll: Oversee day-to-day accounting functions, including purchase ledgers, invoicing, bank reconciliations, VAT returns, and payroll processing/verification.
• Procurement & Compliance: Ensure full compliance with financial regulations, audit requirements, and best-value procurement guidelines when securing school supplies and service contracts.
• Funding & Grants: Manage specialized funding streams, including Pupil Premium, Sports Premium, and local authority or trust grants, ensuring correct allocation and reporting.
• Qualifications & Skills: CSBM/DSBM qualification, AAT/ACCA certification, or equivalent financial experience; proficiency in school financial software (e.g., SIMS, FMS, or Access Education); and a clear Enhanced DBS check.

School & Department Highlights

• Supportive Leadership: A welcoming primary school community with a highly collaborative leadership team and supportive governing body.
• Central Sheffield Location: Conveniently located with accessible public transport links and dedicated staff parking facilities.
• Professional Development: Access to local authority network meetings, continuous financial systems training, and professional learning opportunities.