Overview
Summit Learning Trust is seeking an experienced and qualified Head of Financial Planning to lead our finance planning and business partnering function. You will manage a team of Finance Business Partners and work closely with senior leaders across the Trust, providing high-quality financial insight, accurate reporting, and effective budget planning.
This is a strategic and hands-on role, acting as a trusted adviser to our Executive Team, Principals, Trustees, and budget holders. You will ensure robust financial management, contribute to long-term financial planning, and play a key role in shaping the Trust’s financial strategy.
About this Role
Hours: 36.5 hours per week
Contract: Full Time, Permanent
Salary: Grade 6 (Points 41 – 49) £52,143 - £64,811
Start: ASAP
Seniority level: Director
Employment type: Full-time
Job function: Finance and Sales
Industries: Human Resources Services
Location: Birmingham, United Kingdom
Key Responsibilities
* Lead and manage the Finance Business Partnering team, driving performance and professional development.
* Develop and coordinate the Trust’s annual budget-setting process, ensuring alignment with strategic priorities.
* Produce timely management accounts, control account reconciliations, and insightful financial reports.
* Provide financial challenge and advice to Principals, budget holders, and senior leaders to support effective decision-making.
* Support medium and long-term financial planning, including scenario modelling and funding forecasts.
* Prepare audit working papers and year-end schedules to support statutory accounts.
About You
* CCAB qualified accountant (ACA, ACCA, CIMA, CIPFA or equivalent) with proven senior-level finance experience, ideally in education, public sector, or complex multi-site organisations.
* Strong track record in budget setting, management accounting, and financial business partnering. Experience of leading and developing a high-performing finance team.
* Excellent communication and influencing skills, with the ability to explain complex financial matters to non-finance colleagues.
* Proactive, solution-focused approach, with a commitment to continuous improvement.
Flexible working arrangements (home/office) may be explored subject to operational requirements.
Why Join Summit Learning Trust?
* A welcoming, supportive, and inclusive working environment.
* Commitment to professional development with high-quality CPD opportunities and career progression.
* Access to staff wellbeing initiatives and a wide range of employee benefits.
* The opportunity to make a meaningful impact on the lives of young people.
Please contact Rebecca Hill, Executive Assistant, at rebecca.hill@summitlearningtrust.org.uk to book an informal discussion with the CEO.
Closing date: midday Monday 15 September 2025. Interviews: Monday 22 September 2025.
Summit Learning Trust is an equal opportunities employer. We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people; all appointments are subject to an enhanced DBS check, including a Children’s Barred List check. Online searches will be conducted for shortlisted candidates. Our Child Protection and Safeguarding Policy is available to view here. If you require the application form in a different format, please contact hr.enquiries@summitlearningtrust.org.uk.
Additional information (not required to apply)
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