Head of Finance / Bursar / Finance Director

TN United Kingdom; Reading; On-site; GBP 60,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player in education seeks a Head of Finance to provide strategic financial leadership and operational planning. This pivotal role involves overseeing financial management, ensuring compliance with regulations, and advising senior leadership on financial matters. The successful candidate will develop and implement the school's financial strategy, manage budgets, and ensure adherence to statutory reporting requirements. With a commitment to fostering a culture of continuous improvement, this role offers the opportunity to make a significant impact in a highly regarded institution. If you are a qualified finance professional with a passion for education, this is the perfect opportunity for you.

Qualifications

• Fully qualified in accounting with relevant sector experience.
• Proven experience in financial management within education or non-profit.

Responsibilities

• Oversee financial management and operational planning for the institution.
• Prepare and manage annual budgets, ensuring alignment with priorities.
• Lead financial risk assessments and support decision-making.

Skills

Financial Management

Strategic Planning

Budget Management

UK Accounting Standards

Regulatory Compliance

Education

Professional Accounting Qualification (ACA, ACCA, CIMA, CIPFA)

Job description

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Head of Finance / Bursar / Finance Director, Reading

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Client:

Page Personnel

Location:

Reading, United Kingdom

Job Category:

Finance

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EU work permit required:

Yes

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Job Reference:

03a7b12e4255

Job Views:

3

Posted:

05.05.2025

Expiry Date:

19.06.2025

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Job Description:

• Head of Finance sought for school near Reading
• You must be fully qualified and have relevant sector experience

About Our Client

Our client is a well-known education provider based near Reading, Berkshire. This is a highly regarded school in the local area.

Job Description

• The Head of Finance will oversee the financial management and operational planning ensuring that resources are effectively managed to support the institution's educational objectives.
• This role involves strategic financial leadership, compliance with regulatory requirements, and providing advice to senior leadership and governors on financial matters.
• Develop and implement the college/school's financial strategy in line with its educational objectives.
• Prepare, monitor, and manage annual budgets, ensuring alignment with institutional priorities.
• Produce monthly management accounts, financial forecasts, and detailed variance analysis for senior leadership and governors.
• Oversee financial compliance, including external audits, ensuring adherence to regulatory requirements such as ESFA (Education and Skills Funding Agency) guidelines.
• Identify and pursue opportunities for income generation, including grants, lettings, and partnerships.

Strategic Leadership

• Provide financial advice and strategic planning support to the Principal, Governors, and Senior Leadership Team (SLT).
• Lead on financial risk assessments, ensuring sustainability and resilience in long-term planning.
• Support decision-making through data-driven insights and scenario modelling.

Operations and Procurement

• Oversee procurement processes, ensuring value for money and compliance with statutory regulations.
• Manage payroll, pensions, and related HR processes in collaboration with external providers or internal teams.
• Maintain and update financial policies and procedures, ensuring consistency and compliance.

Governance and Reporting

• Prepare reports and presentations for Governors, the Headteacher, and external stakeholders.
• Act as the key point of contact for external auditors, funding bodies, and other financial agencies.
• Ensure all statutory reporting deadlines (e.g., annual accounts, tax filings) are met.
• Lead and develop the finance team, fostering a culture of continuous improvement.
• Provide training and guidance to non-financial staff on budget management and financial processes

The Successful Applicant

• Professional accounting qualification (e.g., ACA, ACCA, CIMA, CIPFA) or equivalent experience.
• Proven experience in financial management, preferably within the education or non-profit sector.
• Strong knowledge of UK accounting standards, public sector finance regulations, and procurement rules.
• Experience working in an academy trust, school or college setting.