Head of Finance - Hudderfield in Huddersfield

Head of Finance

Salary: £75,000

Contract Type: Full Time (37 hours per week) | Permanent

Contract Term: All Year | 31 days holiday + bank holidays

Area: Huddersfield

Job Description:

The Head of Finance will lead the Trust's finance function, ensuring effective financial management, strong internal controls and compliance across all academies. Working closely with the Chief Finance and Strategy Officer (CFSO), you will support the delivery of the Trust's financial strategy, long-term sustainability and risk assurance framework.

As a key member of the Central Team, you will provide a high-quality, customer-focused finance service, ensuring resources are managed effectively to support educational excellence across the Trust.

Key Responsibilities:

ü  Strategy

• Support financial strategy, planning, forecasting and decision-making.
• Identify financial risks, trends and opportunities across the Trust.
• Support due diligence for new schools joining the Trust.
• Drive improvements to finance systems, processes and procurement.
• Present financial information to senior leaders and governance boards.

ü  Financial Management

• Lead day-to-day financial operations, reporting and financial controls.
• Oversee budgeting, forecasting, cashflow and financial planning.
• Ensure accurate financial data, statutory returns and payroll controls.
• Maintain and improve finance systems, policies and procedures.
• Manage relationships with auditors, banks and financial service providers.

ü  Leadership & Stakeholder Management

• Lead and develop the finance team.
• Build strong relationships with academy leaders and key stakeholders.
• Deliver a responsive, customer-focused finance service.
• Promote collaboration and continuous improvement across the Trust.

ü  Audit, Risk & Assurance

• Ensure compliance, audit readiness and strong financial controls.
• Coordinate audits and implement recommendations.
• Monitor financial risk and regulatory compliance.
• Maintain accurate records and audit trails.

ü  Academy Support

• Support schools with budget planning and financial guidance.
• Provide timely financial information, training and support.
• Produce reports, KPIs and performance insights for senior leaders and governance committees.

Essential Person Specification

• Qualified accountant (or working towards qualification) with significant finance experience.
• Strong background in financial management, reporting, budgeting and compliance.
• Experience leading teams and presenting financial information to stakeholders.
• Skilled in financial systems, forecasting, analysis and process improvement.
• Excellent communication, organisational and problem-solving skills.
• Professional, proactive and committed to continuous improvement.
• Willingness to travel between Trust sites when required.

Safeguarding & Compliance

This role is subject to an enhanced DBS check, satisfactory references, and a commitment to safeguarding, data protection, equality, health and safety, and confidentiality requirements.

All applicants will require the appropriate qualifications and training for this role. Please see the FAQ’s on the Teaching Personnel website for details.
All pay rates quoted will be inclusive of 12.07% statutory holiday pay. This advert is for a temporary position. In some cases, the option to make this role permanent may become available at a later date.
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