Interim Chief Financial Officer (CFO)

CMA Recruitment Group; England; On-site; GBP 150,000 - 200,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading independent school in the UK is seeking an Interim Chief Financial Officer to provide financial leadership during a transitional phase. This role involves delivering significant cost savings, overseeing budgeting, and strengthening compliance and risk management. The ideal candidate is a qualified accountant with extensive senior leadership experience and a proven track record in organisational change. Competitive remuneration and benefits are included, such as free onsite accommodation and gym membership.

Benefits

Onsite accommodation

Free gym membership

Free meals

Free parking

Discounts on events

Qualifications

• Proven ability to deliver substantial cost savings.
• Experience in complex organisations required.
• Ability to influence diverse stakeholders.

Responsibilities

• Provide robust financial leadership during change.
• Oversee budgeting, forecasting, and financial planning.
• Deliver targeted cost savings while maintaining quality.

Skills

Qualified accountant (ACA, ACCA, CIMA or equivalent)

Senior financial leadership experience

Strong change management skills

Job description

Overview

A leading independent school is seeking an outstanding Interim Chief Financial Officer (CFO) to provide strong financial leadership during a period of transition. Reporting directly to the Head and serving as a key member of the Executive Committee, this role is critical to delivering cost savings, strengthening financial sustainability, and maintaining momentum on the school’s long-term financial strategy.

This is a high-profile opportunity to shape the financial future of a prestigious educational institution while enabling its continued excellence.

What is the purpose of the Interim CFO role?

• Provide robust financial leadership and oversight during a period of organisational change
• Deliver £1.5m cost savings in-year, driving efficiencies while safeguarding the quality of education
• Maintain momentum on the school’s strategic financial plan and ensure alignment with wider strategy
• Ensure stability and sustainability of the school’s financial position
• Prepare for a smooth handover to the permanent CFO at the end of the contract, or application to a permanent role may be considered

What will the Interim CFO role involve?

• Lead the Finance function, ensuring timely and accurate financial reporting to the Head and Governors
• Oversee budgeting, forecasting, cashflow management, and financial planning
• Deliver targeted cost savings while maintaining focus on long-term sustainability
• Strengthen risk management, internal controls, and compliance with regulatory standards
• Provide clear financial insight to support strategic decision-making at ExCo and Board level
• Build trust and confidence with Governors, staff, and parents through transparent financial leadership

Suitable Candidate for the Interim CFO vacancy

Essential

• Qualified accountant (ACA, ACCA, CIMA or equivalent)
• Significant senior financial leadership experience in complex organisations
• Proven ability to deliver substantial cost savings and drive efficiency programmes
• Strong change management skills with ability to influence diverse stakeholders
• Resilient and pragmatic, with the ability to provide stability during change

Desirable but not essential

• Experience in the independent schools, education, or not-for-profit sectors
• Knowledge of charity finance and governance
• Previous interim or turnaround experience

Additional benefits and information for the role of Interim CFO

This prestigious school offers a competitive remuneration package including:

• This role is required onsite during the week; however, free onsite accommodation can be provided for this Executive position
• Free gym membership and access to on-site sporting facilities
• Free meals catered to an exceptional standard
• Free on-site parking
• Discounts on cultural and arts events hosted at the school
• Staff discount in on-site retail and café outlets

Safeguarding & Commitment to Inclusion

This independent school is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people, and all staff and volunteers are expected to share this commitment. All appointments are subject to enhanced DBS checks and reference vetting.

We celebrate diversity and inclusion and welcome applications from all backgrounds.

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