Chief Financial Officer – Bedfordshire Schools Trust (BEST)
Contract: Full-time, permanent
Salary: £98,040 - £117,064
Accountable to: Chief Executive Officer
Location: BEST House, Shefford, Bedfordshire
Start date: September 2026
Bedfordshire Schools Trust (BEST) is a high-performing and growing multi-academy trust providing exceptional education across 11 schools and five nurseries. We serve more than 8,000 children from nursery through to advanced level study and employ over 1,000 staff.
Driven by clear values and a strong sense of purpose, we are committed to putting children first, working collaboratively, and delivering high-quality community-based education. As we continue to grow, we are seeking an outstanding Chief Financial Officer to lead our financial strategy and ensure long-term sustainability.
Responsibilities
As Chief Financial Officer, you will provide strategic leadership for all aspects of finance across the Trust. You will work closely with the CEO, Board of Trustees and school leaders to support delivery of BEST’s vision and strategic priorities. You will ensure that financial planning, reporting and controls are robust, transparent and aligned to improving educational outcomes.
You will lead the central finance team and provide expert advice to academy and nursery leaders, enabling them to focus on delivering excellence in education. You will play a key role in Trust growth, including financial due diligence for new schools joining BEST, and in strengthening systems, processes and financial governance.
As a senior leader, you will ensure the highest standards of financial management and compliance. You will oversee budgeting, forecasting and financial reporting, ensuring public funds are used effectively and deliver value for money. You will maintain strong internal controls and ensure compliance with all statutory and regulatory requirements.
Qualifications
The successful candidate will be a fully qualified accountant (ACCA, ACA, CIMA, CIPFA or equivalent) with significant leadership experience, ideally within the education sector. You will bring strong financial acumen, strategic insight and the ability to lead complex organisations.
You will be an effective communicator, able to build strong relationships with stakeholders at all levels. You will demonstrate integrity, resilience and a commitment to high standards, equality and safeguarding.
Additional Information
Closing date for applications: 9.00am Friday 15 May 2026
Interview date: Wednesday 20 May 2026 – Timings to be agreed
We reserve the right to close the recruitment process early in the event of sufficient applications.
Safeguarding
We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children. All offers of employment will be subject to satisfactory pre-employment checks and references, including enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) clearance.
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