Strategic School Finance Leader — Business Manager & Trust CFO

Shorefields; Basildon; Hybrid; GBP 57,000 - 65,000; Full time

Job summary

Lee Chapel Multi-Academy Trust is seeking an experienced School Business Manager / Trust CFO to join from 1 March 2027, leading financial strategy across six schools and reporting to the CEO and Trust Board.

The role demands strategic, analytical and commercial leadership, with strong governance, accountability and the ability to secure value for money to support pupils’ educational outcomes.

Qualifications

• Strategic, commercially aware financial leader for a Multi-Acaemy Trust.
• Experience in education, charity or public sector finance desirable.
• Strong governance, compliance and risk management capabilities.
• Ability to provide strategic financial advice to CEO and Trustees.

Responsibilities

• Lead development and implementation of the Trust's financial strategy.
• Oversee budgets, forecasting, management accounts and reporting.
• Ensure robust controls, governance, compliance and risk management.
• Provide financial information to the Board and Heads for decisions.
• Support procurement, contracts, estates and resource management.
• Prepare annual accounts and liaise with external auditors.

Skills

Strategic leadership

Financial analysis

Budgeting & forecasting

Governance & compliance

Communication with governors

Commercial acumen

Education

Professional accountancy qualification

Job description

Lee Chapel Multi-Academy Trust is seeking an experienced School Business Manager / Trust CFO to join from 1 March 2027, leading financial strategy across six schools and reporting to the CEO and Trust Board.

The role demands strategic, analytical and commercial leadership, with strong governance, accountability and the ability to secure value for money to support pupils’ educational outcomes.