Head of Finance — Multi-School Trust Leader

Hales Valley Trust; Brierley Hill; On-site; GBP 60,000 - 85,000; Full time

Job summary

Hales Valley Trust in Dudley, West Midlands, invites applications for a Head of Finance. You will lead the Central Finance Team, oversee budgets, consolidate accounts and provide strategic financial analysis to support decision-making across the Trust.

You will report to the Director of Finance and Operations, ensuring robust controls, value for money and compliance with statutory requirements. A collaborative leader with strong communication will thrive here.

Qualifications

• Substantial experience in financial management and leadership within a multi-school or complex organisation.
• Excellent understanding of financial management, accounting principles, budgetary control and financial regulations.
• Experience leading financial processes and systems to ensure effective financial management across an organisation.
• Ability to evaluate financial performance, identify risks and opportunities, and provide clear recommendations for strategic decision-making.
• Experience managing, developing and supporting finance teams to deliver an effective service.
• Excellent analytical, organisational and problem-solving skills with strong attention to detail.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills with the ability to influence and support senior leaders.

Responsibilities

• Lead and develop the Central Finance Team, providing effective leadership, line management, training and professional development to ensure a high-quality and responsive finance service.
• Oversee the operational financial management of Hales Valley Trust, ensuring robust financial systems, processes and internal controls are maintained across all Trust schools.
• Lead the preparation, consolidation and monitoring of Trust-wide and school budgets, forecasts and management accounts, providing accurate financial information and analysis to support effective decision-making.
• Work closely with the Director of Finance and Operations to support the delivery of the Trust's financial strategy, ensuring financial planning aligns with wider priorities.
• Ensure compliance with the Academy Trust Handbook, Trust Finance Policy, statutory reporting requirements and financial regulations, identifying and escalating risks.
• Provide financial advice, guidance and support to Executive Headteachers, Headteachers, budget holders and school-based colleagues, promoting financial accountability and value for money.
• Coordinate financial due diligence and operational finance arrangements for new academies joining the Trust, supporting their successful integration through effective financial onboarding and training.
• Support the DFO, Chief Executive and Trustees by providing clear financial reporting, analysis and assurance to inform governance, financial oversight and strategic decision-making.

Skills

Financial leadership

Budgeting

Financial regulations

Finance analytics

Communication skills

Collaboration

Value for money

Job description

Hales Valley Trust in Dudley, West Midlands, invites applications for a Head of Finance. You will lead the Central Finance Team, oversee budgets, consolidate accounts and provide strategic financial analysis to support decision-making across the Trust.

You will report to the Director of Finance and Operations, ensuring robust controls, value for money and compliance with statutory requirements. A collaborative leader with strong communication will thrive here.