Financial Controller – E-ACT Join E-ACT as a Financial Controller and play a pivotal role in ensuring robust financial management across the Trust. Reporting to the Chief Financial Officer, you’ll lead central finance and payroll teams, oversee financial systems, and deliver high-quality financial reporting to senior leaders. You’ll drive operational efficiency, support strategic planning, and ensure compliance with financial regulations. This is a full-time, permanent role ideal for a finance professional who thrives on leadership, continuous improvement, and making a positive impact in education. Key Responsibilities: Oversee all financial management and reporting for the Trust, ensuring compliance with the Academy Trust Handbook and relevant regulations. Prepare financial reports for the CFO, CEO, Board of Trustees, and committees. Lead and develop the central finance and payroll teams, nurturing talent and ensuring high performance. Manage management accounts, and statutory annual accounts production. Lead internal and external audits, and ensure robust financial controls are in place. Provide financial guidance to senior leaders and support business planning across the Trust. Oversee and optimise financial systems, ensuring they meet the evolving needs of the Trust. Ensure compliance with VAT, HMRC, and pension scheme requirements. Manage procurement processes and contracts with external suppliers. Contribute to the development of financial literacy across the Trust by producing guidance materials and delivering training. Qualification Requirements: A recognised accountancy qualification (e.g. ACA, ACCA, CIMA, CIPFA). Experience in financial management, reporting, and leading finance teams Excellent knowledge of UK financial regulations, including the Academy Trust Handbook and Charity Commission requirements Strong analytical, communication, and leadership skills. Commitment to safeguarding, equality, and continuous professional development. About the Trust: At E-ACT, we believe every child deserves opportunity. Our ‘Opening Minds, Opening Doors’ strategy breaks down barriers and builds pathways to success; driven by purposeful leadership, collaboration, and innovation. We champion diversity, encourage a people-first culture, and ensure every voice is heard. We are proud to lead system-wide change both locally and national - providing sector-wide support while transforming futures. Fresh off winning MAT of the Year 2023 at the MAT Excellence Awards and National School Awards and also the TES Trust leadership Award 2024, E-ACT is recognised for shaping bold educational outcomes. With 38 academies and over 25,000 pupils, our dedicated staff make excellence possible. We prioritise wellbeing, tackle workload, and continuously raise the bar. We don’t just educate, we inspire ambition and empower every child to thrive.