Interim Finance Manager
7 days ago
Pontefract
Interim Finance Manager Featherstone - £50-55k 6 months OverviewWe are seeking a proactive and commercially astute Finance Manager to join a dynamic Multi Academy Trust. This role is pivotal in supporting the financial operations of multiple schools within the Trust, with a particular focus on business partnering, stakeholder engagement, and strategic financial oversight.Key ResponsibilitiesFinancial Management & Reporting • Lead the financial management of the Trust’s lead school, overseeing a budget of approximately £5 million., • Initially responsible for the finances of two smaller schools, with scope to expand across the Trust., • Prepare and present monthly management accounts, including detailed commentaries and variance analysis., • Develop and maintain robust forecasting models and annual budgets in collaboration with school leadership teams., • Ensure timely and accurate VAT returns and compliance with HMRC regulations., • Maintain strong balance sheet controls, including reconciliations and financial integrity checks.Project Finance, • Oversee financial planning, monitoring, and reporting for capital projects, including a £3 million building works programme across two schools., • Liaise with contractors, project managers, and internal stakeholders to ensure financial accountability and value for money.Business Partnering & Stakeholder Engagement, • Act as a trusted advisor to Headteachers, Deputy Heads, and senior leadership teams, providing financial insights to support decision-making., • Monitor and advise on discretionary spending by school leaders, ensuring alignment with regulatory frameworks and internal policies., • Build strong relationships across the Trust to promote financial awareness and accountability.Audit & Compliance, • Lead the year-end audit process, preparing schedules, liaising with external auditors, and ensuring statutory compliance., • Support the development and implementation of financial policies and procedures across the Trust.Person SpecificationEssential, • Proven experience in a finance role within education, public sector, or a similarly regulated environment., • Strong understanding of budget management, forecasting, and financial reporting., • Excellent stakeholder management and communication skills., • Ability to work independently and collaboratively across multiple sites., • Experience with capital project finance and audit preparation.Desirable, • Qualified or part-qualified accountant (ACA, ACCA, CIMA, CIPFA)., • Experience within a Multi Academy Trust or school finance environment., • Knowledge of academy financial regulations and ESFA reporting requirements. # 4728521