We are seeking a qualified and experienced finance professional to join our Finance Department as Head of Financial Planning and Analysis (FP&A). This is a new and pivotal senior role, responsible for delivering high-quality financial reporting, budgeting, and forecasting across the school. The successful candidate will play a key role in embedding a newly implemented finance system and supporting the rollout of enhanced financial reporting and a new purchase order system. This is a full-time role working 40 hours per week.

• Lead the month-end closure process to ensure accurate and timely management accounts.
• Prepare monthly payroll cost reconciliations and full-year pay forecasts.
• Produce management accounts with detailed variance analysis and commentary.
• Design and develop reporting packs using modern financial tools and technology.
• Monitor and report on capital projects and large capex spend
• Manage the annual budgeting and forecasting process for designated budget holders.
• Support the Finance Director in consolidating the school-wide budget and long-term financial forecasts.
• Maintain and update cost centre approval workflows to reflect organisational changes.
• Enhance budget holders’ financial understanding through training and ongoing support.
• Act as the primary finance contact for assigned departments, providing financial guidance.
• Undertake financial analysis and reporting for strategic initiatives as required.
• Support the Finance Director and senior leadership team with special projects and requests.

• Demonstrate strong IT skills, including advanced proficiency in Microsoft Excel (e.g., pivot tables, Power Query, financial modelling).
• Use financial systems and reporting tools to automate and streamline reporting processes.
• Champion the transition to a paperless finance environment.
• Lead the rollout of a new purchase order system, working closely with stakeholders.
• Continuously improve financial processes and reporting capabilities.

• Collaborate with other finance department members on financial accounting tasks as needed.
• Assist with year-end processes and preparation of financial statements.
• Respond to audit queries and prepare supporting documentation.

• Foster a collaborative and service-oriented culture within the Finance Department
• Participating actively in departmental and school wide events and meetings
• Build strong relationships with internal stakeholders to support financial decision-making.

• Fully qualified accountant (ACA, ACCA, CIMA or equivalent).
• Proven experience in a senior FP&A role, ideally within an education or public sector setting.
• Strong technical skills in budgeting, forecasting, and financial analysis.
• Advanced Excel skills and confidence working with financial systems and reporting tools.
• Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills.
• Ability to lead change and improve financial processes.

• Experience with finance system implementations.
• Knowledge of capital project reporting and long-term financial planning.
• Familiarity with governance structures in educational institutions.

To apply for this role, please register your details online via our website