Finance Manager – Forward-Thinking Secondary School – Guildford, Surrey Start Date: As soon as possible Contract: Full-time, Permanent Salary: Paid to scale School Information This is an 11 to 18 well-established, Outstanding Ofsted Rated School in Guildford, Surrey, recognised for its strong academic outcomes and commitment to operational excellence. The school serves a diverse and ambitious community and has built a reputation for delivering high-quality education supported by robust financial and administrative systems. Students are engaged, respectful and motivated to succeed, contributing to a calm and purposeful learning environment. The school promotes high expectations alongside a supportive ethos, ensuring that all students feel valued and supported. Staff benefit from a collaborative professional culture where teamwork and shared best practice are central to the school’s success. Leadership is highly supportive and places a strong emphasis on staff development and wellbeing. The school offers a broad curriculum and extensive enrichment opportunities, ensuring students develop both academically and personally. Financial planning and resource management are key priorities, enabling the school to maintain high standards and invest in future development. Role Overview The school is seeking a strategic and highly organised Finance Manager to oversee all aspects of financial management and support long-term planning. This is a senior role that will involve working closely with the Headteacher and leadership team to ensure financial efficiency, compliance and sustainability. The successful candidate will play a critical role in ensuring that the school’s financial resources are used effectively to support student outcomes. Key Responsibilities • Managing the school’s budget, forecasting and financial planning • Producing detailed financial reports for senior leadership and governors • Monitoring departmental budgets and expenditure • Ensuring compliance with financial regulations and audit requirements • Managing payroll and staff-related financial processes • Overseeing procurement and supplier relationships • Supporting long-term financial strategy and planning • Managing income streams including grants and funding • Ensuring accurate financial record keeping • Leading on financial audits and reporting processes • Providing financial guidance to senior leaders The Ideal Candidate The successful candidate will be analytical, detail-oriented and confident managing complex financial systems. They will demonstrate strong leadership skills and the ability to communicate financial information clearly to non-financial stakeholders. A proactive and strategic approach will be essential. Requirements • Relevant financial qualification or equivalent experience • Strong experience in budgeting and financial management • Knowledge of financial regulations and compliance • Excellent analytical and organisational skills • Strong communication skills • Experience with financial systems • School experience desirable but not essential Application To apply, please send your CV as soon as possible.