Finance Manager
Worcestershire area Salary: £32,000 | Full-time, Permanent
Are you a hands-on finance professional looking for your next challenge in a rewarding education environment? We're seeking a
Finance Manager
to take ownership of a busy finance department, managing a small team and ensuring the smooth running of all day-to-day and strategic finance processes.
This is a varied, fast-paced role with real responsibility – ideal for someone who enjoys rolling up their sleeves, leading a team, and making an impact.
Key Responsibilities
* Lead and manage the finance department, with direct line management of 3 staff.
* Prepare and manage 13 sets of year-end accounts to trial balance.
* Maintain accurate financial records, including loans, mortgages, assets, and liabilities across multiple bank accounts.
* Oversee purchase and sales ledger processes, reconciliations, and payment runs.
* Deliver accurate payroll for up to 80 staff (salaried, hourly, daily, weekly) including pensions, PAYE submissions, and compliance.
* Produce and submit VAT returns and manage all related reporting.
* Liaise with Directors, staff, and external accountants on financial and compliance matters.
* Provide training, support, and leadership to the finance team.
* Ensure compliance with HMRC, pension providers, and employment legislation.
About You – The Non-Negotiables
To be considered, you must have:
* AAT qualification
or be a
part-qualified accountant
(ACCA, CIMA, ACA).
* Proven experience bringing accounts to trial balance.
* Hands-on experience with VAT returns.
* End-to-end payroll management experience.
What We're Looking For
* Strong organisational and problem-solving skills.
* High attention to detail and the ability to manage multiple priorities.
* Confident user of finance systems (Xero and BrightPay experience is a bonus).
* A supportive and proactive leader who can motivate a small team.
Why Join?
* Competitive salary of £32,000 per year.
* Opportunity to make a real difference in a supportive, education-focused environment.
* Join a collaborative team where your expertise will be valued.
If you're ready to bring your finance skills to a meaningful setting and thrive in a role with variety and responsibility, we'd love to hear from you.