Interim Finance Business Partner

Robertson Bell; City Of London; On-site; GBP 45,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading recruitment firm is seeking an Interim Finance Business Partner for an Education Trust in London. This role requires a qualified accountant with experience in the education sector, competent in budgeting and financial management. The successful candidate will influence senior leaders and drive cost-saving initiatives. This is an office-based role requiring attendance at two sites during the week, offering a chance to make a significant impact in a supportive team.

Qualifications

• Qualified or part-qualified accountant with relevant experience.
• Experience in finance roles within the education sector.
• Confident in working with non-financial stakeholders.

Responsibilities

• Lead monthly management accounts and budgeting.
• Build relationships with Headteachers and budget holders.
• Present financial information to senior leaders.

Skills

Experience in the education sector

Strong Excel skills

Ability to influence senior leaders

Proactive, solutions-focused approach

Education

Qualified or part-qualified accountant (ACA, ACCA, CIMA, CIPFA)

Job description

Robertson Bell is supporting a respected and growing Education Trust based in East London to recruit an interim Finance Business Partner on an initial three-month contract. This newly created role has been introduced at a critical time, as the Trust looks to strengthen financial control and deliver significant cost efficiencies across its Schools.

This is a high-impact role offering real variety, visibility, and the chance to make a measurable difference across the trust’s operations.

The Finance Business Partner will:

• Lead monthly management accounts, budgeting and forecasting for multiple schools
• Build strong relationships with Headteachers and budget holders, offering challenge and support
• Present financial information to senior leaders and governors in an accessible, non-technical way
• Drive cost-saving initiatives and ensure all financial decisions reflect value for money
• Support year-end processes, internal/external audits, and ensure compliance with DfE guidance

This role is office-based, so attendance across two sites, located closely together, is required five days per week. There may be some flexibility, if required, however this is not gauranteed.

The successful candidate will:

• Be a qualified or part-qualified accountant (ACA, ACCA, CIMA, CIPFA), or qualified by experience
• Have experience of working in the education sector (MAT's, Academies or Schools), in a similar role
• Be confident working with non-financial stakeholders and able to influence senior leaders
• Possess strong Excel skills and a proactive, solutions-focused approach
• Be comfortable working across multiple sites, with a mix of central office and school-based work

This role offers the chance to join a forward-thinking and supportive central team at a time of meaningful change. You’ll be trusted to take ownership, bring ideas, and help shape the way finance supports the trust’s educational mission.

Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis with interviews taking place as soon as suitable candidates are identified. Early application is highly encouraged.