School Finance Manager
Location: Milton Keynes
Contract: Full-Time, Permanent
Salary: £43,000–£51,000 (depending on experience and qualifications)
Job Purpose
This is an opportunity to join a central finance team supporting multiple academies. The role provides both strategic and operational financial support, acting as a link between senior leadership and academy finance staff. The successful candidate will help ensure effective financial management, compliance with relevant regulations, and consistent financial practices across all academies.
Key Responsibilities
Financial Management & Reporting
* Support budget planning, monitoring, and reporting
* Provide regular financial updates and analysis
* Assist with preparation of management accounts
Compliance & Audit
* Ensure adherence to financial regulations, policies, and audit requirements
* Support internal and external audit processes
Budget Oversight
* Assist with budget setting, forecasting, and variance analysis
* Monitor financial performance and advise on budget adjustments
Strategic Support
* Work with senior leaders to support financial planning
* Contribute to financial reports and decision‑making processes
Training & Support
* Provide guidance to staff on financial procedures and systems
Main Duties
* Support senior finance leadership and deputise when required
* Produce monthly management accounts and financial reports
* Complete balance sheet reconciliations and variance analysis
* Support cash flow forecasting and VAT returns
* Assist with year‑end processes and audit preparation
* Maintain and improve financial controls and processes
* Monitor payroll and complete reconciliations
* Support budget holders with financial management
* Contribute to longer‑term financial planning
Management Responsibilities
* Line management of finance staff
* Support team development and training
* Promote good financial practices and compliance
Additional Responsibilities
* Assist with funding bids and grant monitoring
* Prepare statutory financial returns
* Support finance‑related projects
* Stay up to date with financial and regulatory changes
* Maintain confidentiality and professionalism
Person Specification
Qualifications & Experience
* Part‑qualified or qualified in a recognised accountancy qualification (e.g. ACCA, CIMA)
* Experience in financial management and reporting
* Experience managing or supporting a team
* Strong IT skills, including Excel and finance systems
Skills & Knowledge
* Understanding of budgeting, forecasting, and financial reporting
* Knowledge of accounting processes (e.g. journals, reconciliations)
* Ability to analyse data and present clear financial information
* Strong organisational and communication skills
* Ability to handle confidential information appropriately
Personal Attributes
* Ability to prioritise and work under pressure
* Flexible and collaborative approach
* Commitment to professional development
* Awareness of safeguarding and health & safety responsibilities
The establishment is committed to safeguarding, ensuring the safety and welfare of young people. Employment is subject to a satisfactory Enhanced Disclosure from the Disclosure and Barring Service.
For this role you need to be a UK resident and eligible to work in the UK.
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