Strategic School Finance Leader

Cranbrook School; Rolvenden; On-site; GBP 39,000 - 50,000; Full time

Job summary

Ccranbrook School is seeking a Head of Accounts to ensure accurate financial information, strong controls and timely reporting that supports decision-making across the school. The role offers a competitive package and leadership over the Accounts function during the school term.

The ideal candidate will bring proven finance experience, ability to lead, and a calm, dependable leadership style to support teaching, boarding, care and safeguarding responsibilities.

Qualifications

• Proven experience in a finance/accounts role with increasing responsibility.
• Strong knowledge of financial controls, reconciliation and reporting.
• Excellent attention to detail with the ability to meet deadlines.
• Confidence to challenge assumptions and improve processes while building trust.
• Professional, approachable communication style for explaining financial information.
• Experience with relevant compliance frameworks and regulations.
• Strong organisational skills and ability to prioritise in term-time environments.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage the Accounts function, including day-to-day oversight and workload planning.
• Produce high-quality monthly/termly management information and reporting packs.
• Establish and maintain robust financial controls and governance, ensuring policy compliance.
• Support budgeting, forecasting, scenario modelling and budget monitoring.
• Review ledgers, reconciliation work and ensure correct coding and approvals.
• Improve finance systems and workflows to reduce errors and strengthen reporting.
• Explain financial information clearly to colleagues across the school.
• Support audits and inspections with prompt evidence and follow-up on findings.
• Maintain confidentiality and integrity when handling sensitive information.

Skills

Leadership

Financial controls

Budgeting

Forecasting

Management reporting

Stakeholder communication

Attention to detail

Compliance knowledge

Job description

Ccranbrook School is seeking a Head of Accounts to ensure accurate financial information, strong controls and timely reporting that supports decision-making across the school. The role offers a competitive package and leadership over the Accounts function during the school term.

The ideal candidate will bring proven finance experience, ability to lead, and a calm, dependable leadership style to support teaching, boarding, care and safeguarding responsibilities.