Role: Interim Chief Finance Officer/ Finance Director
Location: South Yorkshire - Hybrid
Type: 4-6 months Interim - Education Sector
Hours: Full Time
Day Rate: £450-£500 per day
Sellick Partnership are working with a forward-thinking Multi-Academy Trust in South Yorkshire to appoint an Interim Chief Finance Officer. This is an excellent opportunity for an experienced finance leader who thrives on making an impact during periods of transition and wants to help shape the future of education in the region.
The role
Reporting directly to the CEO, you'll take ownership of the Trust's finance function and lead a team of seven. It's a busy time of year, with year-end processes underway and the Trust preparing budgets for the next academic cycle. Alongside your leadership duties, you'll provide strategic financial direction and ensure the Trust maintains a strong financial position.
You'll also oversee the implementation of a new finance system - so a hands-on approach and confidence managing change will go a long way. The role blends strategic oversight with day-to-day involvement, meaning you'll be equally comfortable leading board discussions and rolling up your sleeves when needed.
Key responsibilities
Lead the finance team, ensuring high standards of reporting, controls, and performance.
Oversee the production of monthly management accounts and board reports.
Drive the annual budget-setting process and provide clear financial insight to the senior leadership team.
Identify opportunities for cost savings and process improvements while keeping educational outcomes at the forefront.
Manage the rollout of a new finance system and ensure a smooth transition across the Trust.
Build strong relationships with Principals, Trustees, and external stakeholders to support effective decision-making.
About you
Fully qualified accountant (ACA, ACCA, or CIMA).
Proven experience in a senior finance leadership role (CFO or Finance Director) within the education or Academy Trust sector.
Strong understanding of school budgeting, funding models, and regulatory frameworks.
Confident leading through change and managing competing priorities in a fast-paced environment.
Excellent communication and influencing skills - able to bridge the gap between finance and education colleagues.
Available immediately and able to commit until April 2026.
What's on offer
Competitive day rate (£450-£550 per day).
Hybrid working (South Yorkshire base).
The chance to make a real difference during a pivotal period for the Trust.
If this sounds like your kind of challenge, please contact Jack Rice at Sellick Partnership for a confidential discussion.
Sellick Partnership is proud to be an inclusive and accessible recruitment business and we support applications from candidates of all backgrounds and circumstances. Please note, our advertisements use years' experience, hourly rates, and salary levels purely as a guide and we assess applications based on the experience and skills evidenced on the CV. For information on how your personal details may be used by Sellick Partnership, please review our data processing notice on our website