Salary £52,000 - £60,000 (DOE) Hours: Typically 9-5 (Mon-Friday) but flexible for the right person Contract: Initial 6 week contract, potential to extend and become permanent Location: Penrith 1-2 days per week, with Hybrid, flexible working Start: end of August
Interim Head of Finance (6 week Contract)
Salary: £52,000 - £60,000 (DOE)
Hours: Typically 9-5 (Mon-Friday) but flexible for the right person
Contract: Initial 6 week contract, potential to extend and become permanent
Location: Penrith 1-2 days per week, with Hybrid, flexible working
Start: end of August
Reporting to: Chief Executive
Manages: Small central finance team
About the Role
A highly regarded educational organisation is seeking an interim Head of Finance to provide strategic leadership and hands-on operational support during a critical period of change and growth.
This is a broad and high-impact role, ideal for a senior finance professional with experience in the education, public or charity sectors.
Key Responsibilities
Strategic Leadership
* Advise the CEO and senior team on financial planning and sustainability
* Oversee annual and medium-term budgeting, forecasting, and performance
* Support trust-wide decision-making through data-driven insights
* Lead statutory accounts and compliance with ESFA and DfE reporting requirements
School & Trust Support
* Collaborate with school leaders to support and challenge financial performance
* Support onboarding of new schools and manage due diligence processes
* Develop and deliver training to school-based finance staff
Team Management
* Lead and support a small, dedicated finance team
* Ensure robust systems, controls, and processes are in place
* Promote a culture of collaboration, accuracy, and continuous improvement
Core Operations
* Oversee month-end reporting, management accounts, and audits
* Monitor financial risks and ensure compliance with internal policies
* Oversee procurement, payroll (via outsourced provider), and pensions
What We're Looking For
* Senior-level finance leadership experience
* Strong understanding of budget management, statutory reporting, and audits
* Hands-on, resilient, and able to balance strategic thinking with operational delivery
This Role Offers:
* The opportunity to make a real impact in a values-led, not-for-profit environment
* A strategic leadership role with variety and challenge
* Flexible start date and potential to extend beyond the initial contract
To express interest in this confidential opportunity, please get in touch. #J-18808-Ljbffr