Interim Finance Director - Multi-Academy Trust

The Opportunity

We are interested in speaking with experienced Interim Directors of Finance for potential opportunities within Multi-Academy Trusts across London and the surrounding areas.

The successful candidate will have a strong background in education finance, providing both strategic and operational financial leadership across a multi-school environment.

This type of position involves working closely with the CFO, CEO and senior leadership team to strengthen financial management, oversee day-to-day finance operations and support the Trust's wider financial objectives.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the day-to-day financial operations of the Trust, ensuring effective financial management across its academies.

• Oversee budgeting, forecasting, management accounts and financial reporting.

• Support the development and delivery of the Trust's medium-term financial strategy.

• Manage cashflow forecasting, reserves planning and financial risk.

• Lead and develop the central finance team, ensuring effective processes, controls and reporting.

• Oversee statutory accounts preparation, year-end processes and external audit requirements.

• Ensure compliance with the Academy Trust Handbook, DfE requirements and relevant accounting standards.

• Provide financial advice and challenge to school leaders, budget holders and senior stakeholders.

• Support finance transformation, systems improvements and process efficiencies.

• Assist with academy onboarding, mergers or integration activity where applicable.

The Ideal Candidate

• Previous experience as a Director of Finance, Head of Finance, Financial Controller or senior finance leader within a Multi-Academy Trust.

• Strong understanding of academy trust financial management, funding and regulatory requirements.

• Experience leading finance teams across multiple schools or sites.

• Strong background in budgeting, forecasting, statutory accounts and audit.

• Experience improving financial controls, reporting processes or finance systems.

• Recognised accountancy qualification (ACA, ACCA, CIMA or CIPFA).

• Available at short notice or approaching the end of an existing assignment.