Finance Director
Midsomer Norton Schools Partnership Trust (MNSP)
Location: Midsomer Norton
Salary: £90,000 - £110,000 + wider benefits
Join one of the South West's most successful and fastest-growing Multi-Academy Trusts
Midsomer Norton Schools Partnership Trust (MNSP) is entering an exciting phase. Already responsible for 36 schools, with strong predicted growth in the next 12-18 months- they are a high-performing and rapidly expanding Trust with a strong reputation for school improvement, financial strength and educational excellence.
With a £150m+ turnover, and a clear commitment to supporting 3000 staff and improving outcomes for pupils, they are seeking an exceptional Finance Director to lead their finance function into the next stage of organisational growth.
Reporting to the Chief Operating Officer, you will provide strategic leadership, assurance and financial stewardship at the highest level - ensuring resources are used effectively to deliver the very best outcomes for children across the Trust.
The Opportunity
This is a rare and career-defining role for a senior finance leader who wants to make a genuine difference in public education. You will:
Lead at Scale and Influence Trust-Wide Strategy
* Shape and deliver the Trust's multi-year financial strategy, investment plans and capital priorities.
* Provide clear analysis, advice and constructive challenge to senior leaders, the CEO and Trustees.
* Play a pivotal role in driving financial sustainability during a period of significant growth.
Ensure Rigorous Governance, Controls and Compliance
* Lead internal controls, audit, external scrutiny and statutory reporting - including DfE returns and preparation of financial statements.
* Maintain full compliance with the Academies Handbook, Companies House and financial regulation.
Drive Financial Excellence Across the Trust
* Oversee monthly management accounts, budgeting, forecasting and KPI reporting.
* Manage reserves and cashflow, recommending investment options to maximise returns.
* Lead procurement strategy and ensure best value across all schools.
Play a Key Role in Due Diligence & Growth
* Lead financial due diligence for incoming schools and support seamless onboarding.
Develop and Lead a High-Performing Finance Function
You will manage a team of 25 staff, including:
* Management Accountants
* Accounts Payable/Receivable teams
* Payroll
With some staff school-based, you'll ensure strong capacity, clear processes, and professional excellence across multiple sites.
Why Join MNSP?
* A financially strong, well-run and respected Trust with outstanding school improvement capability.
* A leadership culture focused on outcomes, not bureaucracy - lean, agile and impactful.
* Significant opportunity to shape the strategic future of a large and growing educational organisation.
* A chance to make a profound difference to children's lives across the South West.
What They're Looking For
Essential
* Fully qualified accountant (ACA, ACCA, CIMA, CIPFA).
* Successful track record in senior financial leadership within a complex, multi-site organisation.
* Strong experience in audit, financial reporting, and leading high-performing finance teams.
* Ability to translate strategy into robust financial models, budgets and operational plans.
* Excellent communication, influence and interpersonal skills - comfortable working with school leaders, teachers and Trustees.
* Deep commitment to integrity, public value and improving outcomes for children.
Highly Desirable
* Experience within a Multi-Academy Trust or public-sector organisation.
* Up-to-date knowledge of the Academies Handbook and MAT finance regulation.
* Experience in capital bids, capital project oversight, risk management and onboarding new academies.
Benefits
* £90,000 - £110,000
* Government Pension Scheme
* 26 days' holiday + bank holidays (rising to 31 after 5 years' service)
* Blue Light Card - offering savings on shopping, travel and leisure
* Cycle-to-Work Scheme
* Free Eye Tests
* EAP Scheme
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