Interim Finance Consultant

A London-based school trust is seeking an experienced Interim Finance Consultant to provide hands-on support across finance operations, reporting and forecasting during a period of change. This is a 3–6 month assignment with the potential to extend, offering a mix of strategic input and “roll sleeves up” delivery.

You’ll work closely with the team to stabilise and strengthen core finance processes, ensure accurate and timely reporting, and support budget planning across multiple schools.

Key responsibilities will include:

• Leading/supporting monthly management accounts and variance analysis
• Budget setting and reforecasting across schools and central services
• Cashflow forecasting and improved financial controls
• Supporting year-end activity and liaising with auditors where required
• Reviewing processes (purchase-to-pay, approvals, payroll journals) and implementing improvements
• Producing clear, stakeholder-friendly reporting for senior leadership and trustees
• Coaching/mentoring internal finance staff as needed

You’ll be confident operating in a fast-paced education environment, able to quickly assess what’s needed and deliver practical solutions.

You’ll ideally have:

• Recent interim experience within a school trust / MAT / education finance setting
• Strong management accounting, budgeting and forecasting capability
• A robust understanding of financial compliance and internal controls
• Ability to engage and influence non-finance stakeholders
• Advanced Excel skills (and comfort with common school finance systems)

Qualifications: ACA / ACCA / CIMA (or equivalent) preferred, but relevant experience is most important.

• Length: 3–6 months (possible extension)
• Location: London
• Start: ASAP / short notice preferred
• Day rate: Competitive (dependent on experience)

If you’re an interim finance professional who can add value quickly in a school trust environment, please get in touch with your CV (and availability).

If you want, tell me the trust type (MAT or LA maintained), working pattern (on-site days), and whether you need someone more strategic (FD-level) or more hands-on (Finance Manager/Business Manager level), and I’ll tailor this advert to match.