Head of Finance

FRANCIS HOLLAND SCHOOLS TRUST; London; On-site; GBP 200,000 +; Full time

Job summary

A charitable educational trust in London is seeking a Head of Finance to lead its financial operations. The successful candidate will have strong interpersonal skills and the ability to communicate complex financial data clearly. This role offers the opportunity to shape the future of the Trust and is supported by a comprehensive benefits package including 30 days of holiday and a 13.5% pension contribution.

Benefits

30 days’ holiday plus bank holidays

Complimentary lunches during term time

Generous 13.5% pension contribution

Qualifications

• Professionally qualified accountant or working towards a qualification.
• Excellent interpersonal skills for communicating complex data.
• Experience in charity, education, or public-sector finance is desirable.

Responsibilities

• Lead financial operations of the Trust.
• Develop and manage a small finance team.
• Oversee budgeting, forecasting, reporting, and compliance.

Skills

Interpersonal skills

Financial data translation

Communication

Education

Professional accounting qualification (ACA, ACCA, CIMA)

Job description

Required as soon as possible

We are seeking a Head of Financeto lead the financial operations of our small but ambitious charitable trust. This is a pivotal role for the Trust, and we are seeking someone who thrives in a purpose-driven environment and enjoys working closely with senior leaders.

You will join a small central team, reporting to the newly appointed Chief Operating Officer. Industry experience is not essential, though a commitment to the broader values of the Trust is.

You will have excellent interpersonal skills, with the ability to translate complex financial data into clear, actionable insights for non-financial stakeholders.

You will lead and develop a small, dedicated finance team, which includes billing, and oversee all financial operations, including budgeting, forecasting, reporting, and compliance for the Trust.

This is an exciting time to be joining FHST, a dynamic and focused community. The role offers someone the opportunity to play a role in the future strategic growth of the Trust.

We offer an excellent benefits package, including 30 days’ holiday plus bank holidays, complimentary lunches during term time and a generous 13.5% pension contribution.

About You

We’re looking for someone who is:

• Ideally a professionally qualified accountant(e.g. ACA, ACCA, CIMA) or working towards a qualification with strong relevant experience.
• A confident communicator with excellent interpersonal skills.
• Skilled at simplifying complex financial information for a range of audiences.
• Experienced in charity, education, or public-sector finance (desirable but not essential).
• Passionate about making a difference in the lives of children and young people.

For further information and to apply, please visit our website via the Apply button.

Closing date: 8.00am on 19th August 2025.