School Head of Finance

Farrer Barnes Limited; Ashington; On-site; GBP 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

A well-regarded school based just outside Horsham is seeking a skilled Head of Finance to lead its financial operations and impact the school's strategic direction. The role requires an ACCA, ACA, or CIMA qualified professional to oversee financial management and reporting, ensuring cost efficiency and driving revenue opportunities. The ideal candidate will have strong leadership skills, experience in the education or charity sector, and the ability to collaborate with senior leaders for long-term financial success.

Qualifications

• Qualified finance professional with strong leadership and financial management skills.
• Experience in the education or charity sector is preferred.
• Ability to deliver strategic insight and collaborate with senior leaders.

Responsibilities

• Provide expert financial guidance focused on budget setting and financial planning.
• Oversee income, expenditure, and cash flow to maintain robust financial systems.
• Deliver detailed financial analysis and reports to support decision-making.
• Line manage and develop a small finance team.
• Drive cost efficiency in procurement and ensure value for money.
• Maximise revenue opportunities from school facilities.

Skills

Leadership skills

Financial management

Strategic insight

Collaboration

Education

ACCA, ACA, or CIMA qualified

Job description

A well-regarded school based just outside Horsham is seeking a skilled and motivated Head of Finance to lead its financial operations and play a key role in the school's strategic leadership. This senior position is part of the Senior Leadership Team (SLT) and reports directly to the Bursar, offering the opportunity to make a significant impact on the school's financial health and long-term success.

Key Responsibilities

• Strategic Financial Leadership: Provide expert financial guidance, focusing on budget setting, financial planning, and long-term sustainability.
• Financial Management: Oversee all aspects of income, expenditure, and cash flow, ensuring robust financial systems and controls are in place.
• Reporting and Insight: Deliver detailed financial analysis and reports to the Headteacher, Governors, and SLT, supporting informed decision-making.
• Team Leadership: Line manage and develop a small finance team, overseeing their induction, training, and performance appraisals.
• Procurement and Value for Money: Drive cost efficiency by ensuring best value for supplies, services, and contracts.
• Commercial Strategy: Maximise revenue opportunities from school facilities, including estates and grounds.

We are seeking a qualified finance professional (ACCA, ACA, or CIMA – qualified) with a background in the education or charity sector. The ideal candidate will bring:

• Strong leadership and financial management skills.
• Experience in driving financial efficiency and implementing robust financial controls.
• The ability to deliver strategic insight and collaborate effectively with senior leaders.

This is a fantastic opportunity to take on a pivotal leadership role in a thriving school, shaping the financial strategy and contributing to its long-term success.

Farrer Barnes Ltd does not discriminate on the grounds of age, race, gender, disability, creed or sexual orientation and complies with all relevant UK legislation. Farrer Barnes Ltd acts as an employment agency for permanent recruitment and employment business for the supply of temporary workers.