Finance Operations Manager

Children First Academy Trust; Enfield; On-site; GBP 52,000 - 66,000; Full time

Job summary

Children First Academy Trust is seeking a Finance Operations Manager to support the Trust Finance Manager and the Director of Finance in delivering a high-quality, compliant, and efficient finance service.

The role is office-based, leading the central finance team, overseeing day-to-day operations, and strengthening financial controls. You will contribute to strategic planning and ensure compliance with key statutory and regulatory standards.

Qualifications

• Evidence of continued professional development.
• Experience of managing or supervising staff.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities.
• Ability to identify opportunities for efficiencies and value for money.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Strong IT skills, including Microsoft Excel and financial accounting or similar systems.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage the central finance team and oversee day-to-day operations.
• Ensure strong financial controls and contribute to strategic financial planning and decision-making.
• Support the Trust Finance Manager and the Director of Finance.
• Ensure the Trust meets regulatory and reporting standards (Academy Trust Handbook, Companies Act, Charities Commission, ESFA).
• Develop and maintain robust financial procedures and supplier relationships.

Skills

Leadership

Financial controls

Budgeting & planning

Stakeholder management

Excel

Team management

Communication (verbal & written)

IT skills

Education

AAT qualification or equivalent (not essential)

Tools

Microsoft Excel

Financial accounting systems

Job description

The Finance Operations Manager will support the Trust Finance Manager and the Director of Finance in delivering a high-quality, compliant, and efficient finance service across the Trust.

The Finance Operations Manager will be office based and will lead and manage the central finance team, oversee day-to-day operations, ensure strong financial controls, and contribute to strategic financial planning and decision-making.

This role is key to ensuring the Trust meets the requirements of the Academy Trust Handbook, Companies Act, Charities Commission, and ESFA reporting standards.

GCSE (or equivalent) Grade 4/C or above in English and Mathematics. Evidence of continued professional development. AAT qualified or equivalent finance qualification not essential.Experience of managing or supervising staff. Experience of implementing and maintaining robust controls and procedures.Strong leadership and team management skills, with the ability to motivate and develop staff. Excellent organisational skills and attention to detail. Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities. Ability to identify opportunities for efficiencies and value for money. Excellent verbal and written communication skills. Strong IT skills, including Microsoft Excel and financial accounting or similar systems. Ability to build effective working relationships with colleagues, suppliers and external stakeholders.