We are seeking an Interim Senior Finance Business Partner to provide financial leadership and support within the Not-for-Profit sector. This role is based on the South London/Surrey border and involves managing financial processes to ensure informed decision-making and effective resource allocation.
Client Details
The organisation operates within the Education/Charity sector and is a medium-sized entity, dedicated to delivering impactful services and achieving its mission. It offers a collaborative and professional environment for its employees.
Description
As a Senior Finance Business Partner, you will oversee and be professionally responsible for the provision of a high-quality financial service to the academies the post-holder is accountable for. This post is central to supporting the trust and its academies to achieve their strategic aims and objectives, via effective and efficient management of financial resources to ultimately transform the lives of young people. The responsibilities for this role are wide and varied and will include:
* Working closely with School Leadership Teams to discuss financial strategy, management accounts, budgets & forecasts and to provide financial and commercial advice.
* Working with trust finance colleagues to drive continuous improvement in controls, finding efficiencies in processes and enhancing financial analysis which adds value.
* Working closely with other trust departments such as HR, Estates and Procurement to align staffing, estates and supplier strategies with financial plans.
* Meeting regularly with the Principals / Headteachers to discuss financial strategy, monthly management accounts, risks & opportunities, forecasts and to provide financial and commercial advice.
* Leading on the development of budgets and the three-year financial plans for the academies in the region, ensuring they reflect the strategic priorities of the academies and the academy development plan.
* Developing an in-depth understanding of the education provision within the academies to allow for financial modelling of cost drivers and future planning.
* Managing the relationship with the home local authority for the academies supported to ensure a pro‑active relationship regarding income and banding discussions.
* Leading on trust wide projects as assigned to ensure consistency and best practice.
Financial Management
* Managing the production of insightful month end reporting in line with the reporting timetable and maintaining procedures to ensure financial transactions are recorded and reported accurately within the accounting system.
* Ensuring management accounts reviews provide control and understanding of income and expenditure, balance sheet and cash flow with commentary on key variances and highlighting any risks and opportunities.
* Promoting a culture of continuous improvement within the finance function, in line with management priorities and promoting shared learning and good practice across the wider Trust.
* Proactively implementing the Trust's policies and procedures and ensuring compliance with the Trust's financial regulations.
* Preparing the budgets and 3-year plan in line with Trust guidance for the academies responsible for.
* Periodically updating robust financial forecasts as required for the academies and ensuring budgeting controls are upheld and that the academies work within the approved budget.
* Ensuring monthly payrolls are checked and authorised in line with expectations and ensuring controls and linkage between headcount planning and forecasting and actual results.
* Providing financial training for school leadership teams, budget holders and other members of staff as required.
* Leading on the partnership with the Local Governing Body (LGB) as the finance contact providing information and attending meetings as required.
* Maintaining information in a confidential manner, following data protection regulations.
* Providing full line management to Assistant Finance Business Partner and Finance Officer including objective setting, review and feedback, development, training, motivation and support.
* Ensuring training and development is available where needed for school contacts.
Profile
* A professional accounting qualification (e.g., ACA, ACCA, CIMA, or equivalent).
* Proven experience of finance business partnering, preferably within the Education or public sector.
* Demonstrable knowledge of financial management, budget planning, analysis and reporting.
* Continuous improvement mindset with a desire to challenge the status quo.
* Excellent communication skills with proven ability in working with non-financial stakeholders.
* Experience of line management and an interest in people development.
* Proficiency with Microsoft packages and ability to learn finance systems required.
* Flexible, team-player with a can-do attitude to providing the best service to schools possible.
Job Offer
* Competitive daily rate ranging from £270 to £330, depending on experience.
* Temporary position with the opportunity to make a significant impact in the not-for-profit sector.
* Comprehensive benefits package including a local government pension scheme.
* Opportunity to work within the Not-for-Profit sector.
* Permanent role based within the South London/Surrey border with a focus on professional growth.
* Collaborative and supportive working environment.
We encourage you to apply if you meet the criteria and are ready to take on this rewarding opportunity as a Senior Finance Business Partner.
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