Job Description

Reporting directly to the Chief Finance Officer, the Accountant will have responsibility for overseeing the central accounting function, ensuring robust financial controls, accurate reporting and strong compliance with the Academies Financial Handbook and ESFA requirements. This role plays a critical part in supporting effective financial stewardship and minimising risk across the organisation.

The role

The successful candidate will lead on the production of consolidated monthly management accounts, annual reports and statutory returns, while maintaining effective internal controls and overseeing the Trust’s accounting systems and processes. You will work closely with senior leaders and key stakeholders across the Trust, providing high-quality financial advice and supporting sound decision-making.

Key responsibilities include:

• Leading and developing the central accounting team

• Ensuring compliance with statutory, regulatory and ESFA requirements

• Managing internal controls, reconciliations and asset registers

• Supporting external audit processes and identifying financial risk

• Producing accurate and timely management accounts and financial reports

• Managing Trust cash flow forecasting

• Overseeing capital project accounting and grant reporting

• Managing VAT, banking arrangements and regulatory submissions

• Ensuring accounting systems are fit for purpose and optimised

Safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people is an essential responsibility within this role.

The ideal candidate

We are seeking a finance professional who brings strong technical expertise alongside the ability to lead, influence and collaborate.

You will ideally have:

• A recognised accountancy qualification or be part-qualified and working towards ICAEW, ACCA, CIMA or CIPFA

• At least five years’ experience in education finance

• A strong understanding of academy finance and financial governance

• Experience of month-end and year-end reporting processes

• Knowledge of school-based financial and management information systems

• A proactive, analytical and solution-focused approach

• Excellent communication and relationship-building skills

This is an excellent opportunity for an experienced education finance professional to take on a high-impact role within a values-led trust that prioritises accountability, collaboration and continuous improvement.

An enhanced DBS check will be required.
Applicants who meet the essential criteria and declare a disability may be guaranteed an interview in line with the Trust’s commitment to equality and inclusion.

For a confidential discussion about the role, please contact MAT Recruitment, who are managing this appointment on behalf of the Trust.