Job Description
Interim Multi Academy Trust Head of Finance - 4-6 months
A Multi-Academy Trust is seeking an experienced Interim Finance Manager to provide critical support during a period of transition. This role will focus on strengthening financial controls, supporting audit readiness, and ensuring continuity across finance operations.Key ResponsibilitiesKnowledge Capture & Handover
* Work closely with the Head of Finance to map duties, deadlines, controls, and key contacts
* Document file locations, system processes, and review points
* Develop and maintain a live handover and process log
Core Finance Controls
* Oversee month-end close processes, including journals and reconciliations
* Manage bank authorisations and checks
* Ensure robust financial controls and maintain a clear audit trail
Audit Readiness & Coordination
* Take ownership of the audit evidence tracker
* Allocate requests and proactively chase responses
* Review completeness and coordinate audit activity to meet timelines (including mid-October deadlines)
Funding, VAT & Compliance
* Manage VAT claims, General Annual Grant (GAG) and other funding reconciliations
* Oversee payroll and pension documentation
* Ensure compliance with related-party disclosures and governance requirements
Systems & Process Transition
* Support implementation and testing of a new purchase ledger system.
* Ensure new processes are thoroughly documented and understood by the wider team
Team Coordination
* Reduce single-person dependencies by sharing knowledge across the team
* Clarify roles and responsibilities
* Produce practical process notes to support ongoing operations
Candidate Profile
* Proven experience in a Finance Manager or senior finance role within the education sector - ideally Multi Academy Trusts.
* Strong understanding of financial controls, audit processes, and compliance
* Experience with systems implementation and process improvement
* Ability to work autonomously and manage multiple priorities in an interim environment
* Excellent stakeholder engagement and communication skills
Why Apply?
* Opportunity to make an immediate impact within a growing MAT
* Key role influencing financial governance and operational stability
* Collaborative leadership team and purpose-driven environment
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