Head of Finance, City Schools
City of London School for Girls, City of London School, and City Junior School
Salary: £65,000 – £79,000 (subject to final grading)
Location: City of London
Contract: Full-time (flexible or part-time arrangements considered)
About Us
The City of London School and the City of London School for Girls are separate independent schools owned by the City of London Corporation. Each school has its own unique tradition’s distinct identity and strategic vision yet share a commitment to academic excellence and a focus on educating pupils from the breadth of London’s diverse population. The two schools opened a new co-educational junior school, City Junior School, in 2022, for children from ages 7-11, creating a group of three schools offering education to children from 7 to 18.
About the post
We are seeking an experienced and forward-thinking Head of Finance to lead the finance function across all three schools. This is a senior leadership role, reporting initially to the Schools’ Chief Operating Officer and working closely with the City of London Corporation’s Chamberlain’s department. The successful candidate will play a pivotal role in shaping and delivering financial strategy, ensuring value for money, and enhancing service delivery across the schools. As the schools navigate increasing financial pressures and sector-wide changes, this role is critical in driving innovation, efficiency, and financial resilience.
The Head of Finance will oversee a cross-site finance team, providing strategic and operational leadership across budgeting, financial planning, reporting, and compliance. The role involves close collaboration with Heads of Schools, senior management teams, and governing bodies, and includes regular presentations to Boards and Committees. The successful candidate will also be responsible for developing and implementing financial policies, managing relationships with key stakeholders, and ensuring that financial systems and processes support the schools’ long-term goals.
We are looking for a fully qualified CCAB (or CIMA) accountant with substantial post-qualification experience in a complex public or private sector environment—ideally with exposure to independent education. The ideal candidate will have a strong track record in strategic financial leadership, excellent communication and stakeholder engagement skills, and the ability to lead and inspire high-performing teams. Experience in change management, financial modelling, and working within a shared services or multi-site context will be highly advantageous.
This is a unique opportunity to join a values-driven organisation at a time of transformation and growth. If you are passionate about education, committed to excellence, and ready to make a meaningful impact, we would love to hear from you.
How to apply
City Schools is being supported on this recruitment campaign by the search consultancy MRG Schools Leadership.
To arrange a confidential briefing discussion please contact our retained advisor:
Sian Gardiner (sian.gardiner@mrgglobal.com)
Applications should consist of a CV and a supporting statement. Applications should be sent directly to Sian Gardiner via the email address above.
Closing Date for applications is Sunday 20th July 2025.
The City Schools are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expect all staff and volunteers to share this commitment.
This post is exempt from the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act and as part of the selection process applicants must be willing to undergo child protection screening appropriate to the post, including employment references, criminal conviction & professional checks.
The City of London Corporation is committed to equal opportunities and welcomes applications from all sections of the community.