Finance Manager – Independent School – Bath Start Date: As soon as possible Contract: Full-time, Permanent Salary: Paid to scale School Information This prestigious independent day school in Bath is widely respected for its academic excellence, pastoral warmth, and holistic educational philosophy. Educating students aged 4–18, the school is set within beautiful historic grounds and boasts modern facilities, small class sizes, and a highly supportive community atmosphere. The school places strong emphasis on integrity, creativity, and personal development. Staff enjoy extensive support from leadership, access to rich professional development opportunities, and a culture that values initiative and innovation. Financially stable and forward-thinking, the school is committed to continuous investment in facilities, digital systems, and high-quality staffing. Due to internal expansion and modernisation of financial systems, the school is seeking an experienced and professional Finance Manager to join its operations team. Role Overview The Finance Manager will be responsible for overseeing all financial operations, ensuring compliance, accuracy, and strategic oversight of the school’s budget. Key responsibilities include: Managing financial planning, budgeting, and forecasting Overseeing payroll processes and pension administration Monitoring income, expenditure, invoices, and banking reconciliation Preparing monthly management accounts and year-end financial statements Working closely with the School Business Manager and Governors’ Finance Committee Ensuring compliance with audit requirements, ISI expectations, and charity regulations Managing fee billing, financial inquiries, and bursary applications Overseeing procurement processes and ensuring value for money Maintaining accurate financial records and digital systems Leading financial risk assessments and supporting long-term planning This is a senior role requiring discretion, strong financial expertise, and excellent organisational ability. Finance & Operations Team Information You will work closely with the School Business Manager, HR, payroll officers, and administrative support staff. The team operates with a high degree of professionalism, using modern digital accounting systems such as Sage, PS Financials, or Xero (experience desirable but not essential). The department culture values accuracy, transparency, and collaborative problem-solving. Candidate Requirements Professional finance qualification (AAT, ACCA, CIMA, or equivalent) Experience managing finances in education or the charity sector (desirable) Strong analytical and numerical skills Confident in producing management reports and liaising with auditors High level of accuracy, confidentiality, and financial integrity Strong communication, leadership, and organisational skills Ability to work independently and manage competing demands Commitment to safeguarding and compliance regulation Application To apply, please send your CV as soon as possible.