Funding and Data Manager (Education)

Navigators; Manchester; On-site; GBP 37,000 - 44,000; Full time

Job summary

An educational organization based in Manchester seeks a Funding & Data Manager to ensure financial sustainability and data integrity through effective management of DfE funding streams. The role involves developing robust data systems and producing insightful reports for leadership to drive strategic growth. Ideal candidates will have 3–5 years of experience in finance and funding, strong data management skills, and be proficient with DfE systems and financial software. This position offers a competitive salary and a role in a vital sector.

Qualifications

• 3–5 years in finance/funding within education/public sector.
• Experience with DfE/ESFA systems and compliance.
• Strong data management and reporting background.

Responsibilities

• Manage all aspects of DfE grant funding, compliance, and reporting.
• Develop systems for learner data collection, validation, and reporting.
• Ensure adherence to DfE funding rules and audit requirements.

Skills

Analytical

Problem-Solving

Technical

Organisational

Communication

Leadership

Education

Finance qualification (AAT, ACCA, CIMA) or equivalent

Tools

DfE portals

MIS

Excel

Job description

Business Area: Organisation-wide Contract: Permanent | Pattern: Full Time Salary: £37,960 – £43,680

Role Purpose

The Funding & Data Manager ensures financial sustainability and data integrity by managing DfE funding streams, aligning finance and learner data processes, and delivering accurate reporting to support strategic growth. This role is critical for securing substantial DfE grants and providing actionable insights to leadership.

Key Responsibilities

• Finance & Funding
  • Manage all aspects of DfE grant funding, compliance, and reporting.
  • Reconcile government grants via DfE learner/data portal.
  • Support business planning and growth forecasting linked to learner numbers.
  • Align financial processes with learner data systems.
• Data & Reporting
  • Develop systems for learner data collection, validation, and reporting.
  • Integrate finance and data for accurate forecasting and performance tracking.
  • Produce timely reports for leadership and governing bodies.
  • Monitor growth metrics and provide strategic insights.
• Compliance & Quality
  • Ensure adherence to DfE funding rules and audit requirements.
  • Implement controls for data integrity and financial accuracy.
• Collaboration & Leadership
  • Act as liaison between finance, data, and operations.
  • Train staff on DfE funding and data processes.

Skills & Abilities

• Analytical: Interpret complex data and identify trends.
• Problem-Solving: Resolve discrepancies and improve processes.
• Technical: Proficient in DfE portals, MIS, Excel (pivot tables, VLOOKUP).
• Organisational: Manage multiple priorities and deadlines.
• Communication: Explain complex data clearly to stakeholders.
• Leadership: Influence teams to adopt best practices.

Experience & Qualifications

• Essential:
  • 3–5 years in finance/funding within education/public sector.
  • Experience with DfE/ESFA systems and compliance.
  • Knowledge of ILR processes and ESFA rules.
  • Strong data management and reporting background.
  • Proficiency in financial software and MIS platforms.
• Desirable:
  • Finance qualification (AAT, ACCA, CIMA) or equivalent.
  • Experience in alternative education or specialist provision.
  • Familiarity with strategic planning and growth forecasting.

Declarations

We aim to create and maintain a safe environment where all young people and adults feel secure and valued. This role involves regulated activity under the Safeguarding Vulnerable Groups Act 2006, requiring DBS checks and adherence to UK safeguarding legislation. Further information on our Safeguarding, Child Protection, Ex-offender, and Safer Recruitment policies is available upon request. All applications are assessed individually under the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974. The successful candidate will complete DBS checks, Vulnerable Child and Adult register checks, and reference checks. Additional online searches (including social media) may form part of the selection process.