Head of Finance

Head of Finance£54,394 - £61,534 + Excellent benefits (pension 17%)Teignmouth, Torquay, Paignton, Newton Abbot, Exeter

Lloyd Barnes is recruiting an experienced Head of Finance to play a pivotal role in a Multi Academy Trust's finance function and support its long term financial health. You will provide expert financial stewardship, deliver robust planning and reporting, and ensure resources are used effectively to support high quality education across all academies.

The role combines hands on operational oversight with strategic input, working closely with the executive team, central services and school leaders.

Key responsibilities:

• Lead, manage and develop the Finance Team, driving high performance, accountability and continuous improvement.
• Deliver accurate and timely month end and year end accounts, reconciliations and consolidated management reports for the Trust Board.
• Prepare clear, insightful financial reports and forecasts (including three year plans) to support effective decision making.
• Oversee cash flow forecasting, day to day financial operations and the implementation of ICFP and financial benchmarking.
• Maintain robust financial controls and records, ensuring compliance with Trust policies, DfE requirements, audit expectations and accounting standards.
• Ensure compliant procurement, effective payment, cash, banking and debt recovery processes, and timely statutory and non statutory returns (e.g. VAT, DfE, HMRC).
• Lead the development and improvement of financial systems, policies and procedures across the Trust.
• Build strong relationships with Headteachers and budget holders, attend relevant Trust and governance meetings, and support onboarding of new schools.
• Provide cover for the Director of Finance as required.

Safeguarding and wider duties:

• Place the safeguarding and welfare of pupils at the centre of your work, following all Trust policies and reporting procedures.
• Undergo and maintain all required checks, including an enhanced DBS with barred list check.
• Work in line with Trust and school policies (including health and safety, equality, GDPR and safer working practices) and uphold the staff code of conduct.
• Undertake any other reasonable duties commensurate with the role.

This role would suit Senior Finance Manager, Finance Manager, Assistant Finance Director, Finance Director, Accountant, Company Accountant, Management Accountant, Financial Controller, Group Accountant, Qualified Accountant.

The role would be commutable from Exeter, Newton Abbot, Torquay, Paignton, Totnes, Okehampton, Torbay, Ivybridge, Ashburton, Bovey Tracey.

For further information about this Head of Finance opportunity or to apply, please submit your CV or contact Jamie Wall at Lloyd Barnes.

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