DescriptionEmployerLocation
The position of Head of Finance is a crucial role leading the Finance Team. The post-holder will be responsible for:
1. Budgetary control
2. Monitoring and managing all aspects of expenditure
3. The accounting records and reporting for Westonbirt School
4. Being finance partner for Wishford Commercial Team
5. Direct line management for the Finance Manager, as well as overseeing a small team
The Head of Finance will lead the Finance Team. Working closely with the Heads, Director of Estates and Services, SLT, and budget holders, including, providing financial support and accurate, timely reporting to the Wishford Group Head of Reporting.
They will also act as the finance partner to the Wishford Commercial team, supporting high‑growth activities such as language schools, holiday clubs, leisure services, and weddings and events. This includes collaborating on pricing, planning, reporting, and analysis.
This role requires a qualified accountant, and we welcome applicants from a variety of backgrounds and experience levels. Due to the size of the organisation, it is a hands-on position overseeing a team of four, including direct line management of the Finance Manager, at a particularly exciting time of growth and capital investment.
This is a full-time role, and as a boarding school operating seven days a week, occasional evening and weekend support may be required.
Hours, Salary & Benefits:
Hours: This is a full time, year round permanent role. This role is based at Westonbirt School, Tetbury.
Salary: Up to £75,000 pa
Benefits:
6. 5% employer pension
7. Shopping discount card
8. Potential means tested staff discount
9. Complimentary lunch where possible
10. 25 days annual leave + bank holidays
11. Access to the groups counselling scheme
12. Access to fully funded apprenticeships
13. Discretionary Christmas stand down
14. On site parking
15. Personal accident at work cover
Reports to: Finance Director
Start Date: As soon as possible (dependant upon notice periods and the receipt of safer recruitment checks).
Person Specification:
We are seeking a commercially minded qualified accountant with demonstrated experience in an entrepreneurial high growth environment. The right person will be able to balance strategic oversight with being in a hands-onrole in finance and as a key person in the wider school community.
Qualities/ Skills:
16. Lead by example with honesty, integrity and discretion
17. Proactive, accurate and extremely organised and effective in detailed accounting functions
18. A keen eye for detail and the ability to work to deadlines
19. A flexible and proactive approach
20. Good written & oral communication skills
Experience:
21. Qualified Accountant
Essential:
22. Demonstrated experience in a senior but hands on role outside of practice
23. Experience of leading a finance team that included transactional processing and accounting
24. Excellent IT skills including advanced excel skills and proficient in use of finance systems
Desirable:
25. Experience of working in a school environment
26. Understanding of tax and capital allowances
To see the full job description, please read the attached candidate pack.
Safeguarding Statement
Westonbirt School is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment.We particularly welcome applications from under represented groups including ethnicity, gender, transgender, age, disability, sexual orientation or religion.