Trust Finance Director

Farrer Barnes Limited; Greater London; On-site; GBP 125,000 - 150,000; Full time

Job summary

A Southwest London academy trust is seeking a Trust Finance Director to manage the core finance function and provide financial oversight for all schools. This role involves leading on budgeting, annual accounts preparation, and ensuring compliance with statutory requirements. The ideal candidate will be a qualified accountant (ACCA, CIMA) with experience in Academy Finance, offering a unique opportunity for professional growth within a key stage of the Trust's development.

Qualifications

• Qualified accountant with ACCA or CIMA.
• Experience in Academy Finance is essential.
• Ability to lead and manage a finance team effectively.

Responsibilities

• Prepare robust budgets for all schools.
• Monitor delivery against budgets with regular updates.
• Lead the external and internal audit process.

Skills

Budget preparation

Financial oversight

Leadership

Strategic planning

Education

ACCA, CIMA, or equivalent

Job description

My client is a Southwest London academy trust, harbouring ambitious growth plans for the future. They are seeking a Trust Finance Director to play a lead role in the future development of the Trust, working with both independent heads of schools and the wider senior leadership team.

The role leads on the core finance function, playing a key strategic role with financial oversight of all schools.

Key Duties and Responsibilities

• Work closely with Headteachers and Executive Heads to prepare robust budgets for all schools
• Monitoring delivery against budgets, including regular updates to forecasts and providing supporting commentary
• Preparation of annual accounts, DfE returns and all other financial statements in accordance with statutory requirements
• Ensure accurate year‑end accruals and pre‑payment adjustments are made
• Lead the annual external and internal audit process – ensuring accurate information is provided and queries answered on a timely basis
• Ensure that all accounting processes and practices are monitored to determine possible improvements
• Deliver visible and professional leadership of the Finance Team, aiding with CPD for the team
• Work with the leadership teams to support strategic planning and involvement in ad hoc projects
• Provide expert advice to the Trust executive, Trustees and local governors as and when required

Applications are sought from qualified (ACCA, CIMA, ACCA) accountants, with experience of working within Academy Finance. This is a rare opportunity to join a well‑positioned Trust at a key stage of its growth.

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.