School Finance Manager

Academics; Greater London; On-site; GBP 40,000 - 65,000; Full time

Job summary

Academics partners with a well-regarded primary school in Hackney to recruit a School Finance Manager. You will oversee budgeting, forecasting, payroll, and audits, ensuring SFVS compliance and robust financial controls. Start ASAP for a full-time permanent role.

You will work closely with the Headteacher, Governors and School Business Manager to drive financial planning and performance, with opportunities for professional development within a supportive school environment.

Qualifications

• At least 3 years' experience in a school finance role.
• Experience with budgeting, forecasting and monitoring.
• Understanding of SFVS and statutory requirements.
• Proficient in Excel and financial reporting.

Responsibilities

• Manage day-to-day financial operations, budgeting and forecasting.
• Prepare financial reports for Headteacher, Governors and Trust.
• Oversee payroll, invoicing, purchase orders and reconciliations.
• Ensure SFVS compliance and audit readiness.
• Support annual budget planning and long-term strategy.
• Manage school funds, income and lettings.
• Collaborate with SBM, Headteacher and Governors.
• Line manage finance staff where applicable.

Skills

Excel

Communication

Organisational skills

Collaboration with senior leaders

Budgeting

Education

AAT / ACCA / CIMA qualification

Tools

School finance software

Job description

School Finance Manager - Mainstream Primary School, Hackney 40,000 - 65,000 Full-Time, Permanent

Are you an experienced finance professional with a background in schools, looking for your next opportunity?

A well-regarded primary school in Hackney is seeking a dedicated School Finance Manager to join their team on a full-time, permanent basis. This is an excellent opportunity for someone with school-based finance experience who is ready to take on a key role within a supportive and forward-thinking school environment.

Key Details

• Position: School Finance Manager
• Location: Hackney, London
• Setting: Mainstream Primary School
• Contract: Full-time, Permanent
• Salary: 40,000 - 65,000, depending on experience
• Start Date: ASAP
• Interviews: Available immediately

The Role

As the School Finance Manager, you will:

• Manage the school's day-to-day financial operations, including budgeting, forecasting and monitoring
• Prepare and present financial reports for the Headteacher, Governing Body and Trust
• Oversee payroll, invoicing, purchase orders and reconciliations
• Ensure compliance with the School Financial Value Standard (SFVS) and all statutory requirements
• Support the annual budget planning process and long-term financial strategy
• Manage school funds, income generation and lettings
• Work closely with the School Business Manager, Headteacher and Governors
• Line manage finance and administrative staff where applicable
• Ensure robust financial controls and audit readiness

About You

The school is looking for someone who:

• Has at least 3 years' experience in a school finance role
• Has worked as a School Finance Manager or is a Finance Assistant ready to step up
• Holds a relevant finance qualification (AAT, ACCA, CIMA, or equivalent) - desirable but not essential
• Has a strong understanding of school finance systems and processes
• Is confident using financial management software and Microsoft Excel
• Has excellent communication and organisational skills
• Is able to work collaboratively with senior leaders and governors
• Is committed to supporting the school's wider aims and ethos

The School

This is a supportive and inclusive primary school in Hackney with a strong commitment to providing the best possible education for its pupils. You will work closely with a collaborative leadership team and benefit from ongoing professional development opportunities.

All successful applicants will be subject to satisfactory references, an enhanced DBS check, and all other safer recruitment and compliance checks in line with Keeping Children Safe in Education (KCSIE) guidance.

Salary will be determined by the successful candidate's qualifications and relevant experience, and will be in accordance with the client's pay policy.

Salary will be determined by the successful candidate's qualifications and relevant experience, and will be in accordance with the client's pay policy.