Finance Officer

SAINT JOHN SOUTHWORTH CATHOLIC ACADEMY TRUST; Greater London; On-site; GBP 40,000 - 45,000; Full time

Job summary

A growing educational trust in Greater London is seeking a Finance Officer to manage financial operations, ensure compliance, and support the Trust's mission of outstanding education. The ideal candidate will hold an AAT Level 4 qualification and demonstrate strong skills in financial reporting and budget monitoring. This role offers a supportive working culture with opportunities for professional growth and includes a salary range of £40,404 - £44,235. Apply by 19 December 2025.

Benefits

Funding for professional qualifications

Access to Local Government Pension Scheme

Generous holiday entitlement

Qualifications

• Proactive and detail-oriented individual.
• Demonstrable experience in financial reporting and budget monitoring.
• Strong technical knowledge of accounting principles.

Responsibilities

• Deliver robust financial operations, compliance, and reporting.
• Ensure accuracy and integrity of financial processes.
• Contribute to the Trust's long-term financial sustainability.

Skills

AAT Level 4 qualification or equivalent

Financial reporting experience

Technical knowledge of accounting principles

Analytical skills

Excel skills

Education

AAT Level 4 qualification or equivalent

Job description

Location: Trust sites in Central and West London
Contract Type: Permanent, 35 hours a week, all year round
Salary: £40,404 - £44,235
Start Date: As soon as possible

Are you an organised, proactive and detail‑oriented individual looking to make a meaningful impact in education? The Saint John Southworth Catholic Academy Trust is looking for a Finance Officer to join our Shared Services Team. In this vital role, you will ensure that every pound spent across the Trust supports its mission to provide outstanding Catholic education. By enabling sound financial stewardship and effective resource planning, you will help our schools to deliver the best outcomes for every pupil in our care.

About the Trust

The Saint John Southworth Catholic Academy Trust is a growing family of Catholic schools (primary, secondary and post‑16), a registered charity and a trading company committed to providing an outstanding education rooted in faith, aspiration and service.

Our Shared Services Team provides high‑quality professional and operational support across the Trust, enabling schools to focus on teaching, learning and pastoral care.

Key Responsibilities

• Deliver robust financial operations, compliance and reporting across the Trust
• Work closely with the Chief Financial Officer (CFO) and Finance Manager to ensure the accuracy, integrity and efficiency of all financial processes
• Contribute to the Trust's long‑term financial sustainability

What We Are Looking For

• Have an AAT Level 4 qualification or equivalent or working towards
• Demonstrable experience in financial reporting, reconciliations and budget monitoring
• Strong technical knowledge of accounting principles
• Excellent analytical and Excel skills

What We Offer

• The opportunity to lead and influence financial best practice across a growing Trust
• A supportive, professional and values‑driven working culture
• Funding and support for ongoing professional qualifications (AAT/ACCA/CIMA/CIPFA)
• Access to the Local Government Pension Scheme and generous holiday entitlement
• A clear progression route within the Trust for those pursuing professional qualification and demonstrating leadership capability
• A collaborative environment that values integrity, professional growth and service

How to Apply

For further details on the role, please view the Job Description and Person Specification via https://www.sjscat.co.uk/Vacancies/ or visit our website to find out more about us. To apply for this role, please complete the application forms available on our Vacancies webpage. Applications should be sent via email to [e-mail].

Closing date: 19 December 2025

Shortlisted candidates will be called for interview upon receipt of application; therefore we advise you to submit your application as early as possible to avoid disappointment.

The Saint John Southworth Catholic Academy Trust is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of young people. All roles are subject to satisfactory vetting, including an Enhanced DBS check with Children's Barred List.

Join us in our mission to cultivate an educational environment that inspires growth, respect and academic achievement!