In this pivotal role, you will serve as the financial architect of our School, reporting directly to the Headmaster. You will balance high-level forecasting and board-level reporting with the hands-on management of our daily financial health.
We are looking for a seasoned professional—either fully qualified (ACA/ACCA/CIMA) or Qualified by Experience (QBE) through significant tenure in a similar senior capacity. This role requires the depth of insight and leadership maturity that comes with established experience; it is not suited for those at the newly qualified level. Oversee preparation of the company’s annual accounts in accordance with company law
Make appropriate arrangements for an annual external audit and liaising with the auditors during their audit work
Prepare the annual budget, including cashflow projections, in accordance with the requirements of the Board and the DfE, and maintain a rolling 3–5-year financial plan/forecast
Ensure that appropriate internal control processes are in place, to eliminate the risk of financial losses, to maximise economy and efficiency in the use of resources and to enable accountability at appropriate levels.
Managing all?day-to-day?accounting operations - this usually includes Billing, Accounts Receivable, Accounts Payable, General Ledger and Revenue Recognition.?
Coordinating the preparation of budget and financial forecasting, including scenario planning and sensitivity analysis.
Ensure the accurate preparation of monthly management accounts and other reports, including re-forecasting each term, with appropriate management commentary, analysis of variances, advice, and benchmarking data on the financial state of the school for the use of the Governors and budget holders, ensuring all transactions are recorded, filed and reported properly.?
Making sure reporting meets compliant standards with statutory law and financial regulations.?
Ensuring all tax returns are filed on time and taxes due are paid on time.
Oversee regular bank and other reconciliations
Documenting business processes and accounting policies to maintain strong internal controls.?
Streamlining and improving all operations and accounting systems.?
Review and propose updates to the school’s financial policies as required.
Supporting the business with all financial aspects of the strategic plan and decision-making processes.
Prepare the business case and financial appraisals for new projects and take the lead responsibility for their oversight and implementation.?
Coordinating the management of cash flow, debt and debt collection.?
Ensure that the offer of a bursary or scholarship is managed in accordance with relevant policies
Manage the payroll and approval of any monthly payroll adjustments for staff including pension contributions
Manage, mentor and motivate finance department staff?
Lead the end-to-end annual audit process, acting as a point of contact for external auditors.
Helping the Director of Business Strategy and Operations in presenting reports to senior executives, governors and board members including attendance at the Executive Committee and relevant Governor meetings.
Essential
?Work experience as a Head of Finance, Financial Controller, or similar role
In-depth understanding of cash flow management, bank reconciliation, and bookkeeping
Hands-on experience with budgeting and risk management; solid analytical and decision-making skills; metrics-driven approach
Advanced Excel and financial reporting software skills
Exceptional interpersonal, written, and oral communication skills; ability to manage staff at all levels and present complex financial information to non-specialists
Strong time management, problem-solving, integrity, dependability, and the ability to work under pressure or collaborate with upper management
Desirable
ACA/ACCA/CIMA?
Experience working in an educational environment
Excellent knowledge of data analysis and forecasting models
Knowledge spanning strategic finance, law, tax matters, school maintenance, and project management
Benefits
A friendly and collaborative working environment
Opportunities for professional development
Access to our beautiful 46-acre parkland setting and school facilities, including the gym and swimming pool
Generous employer pension contributions of up to 12%
Free onsite parking
Complimentary meals during working hours.
Employee Assistance program.
Annual leave of up to 7.2 weeks.
Leweston School is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. All applicants must be willing to undergo child protection screening appropriate to the post, including checks with past employers and the Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS).
Apply now on the schools vacancy portal here.
