Our client, an esteemed independent school in west Kent, is seeking an experienced and strategic Finance Manager to oversee the school’s financial operations. This is a key leadership role responsible for ensuring sound financial management, regulatory compliance, and efficient budgetary planning to support the school’s long-term sustainability and growth.
Reporting to the Bursar and leading a small team of two, the Finance Manager is responsible for:
- Leading on the day-to-day financial operations, including budgeting, forecasting, financial reporting, and cash flow management.
- Support the Bursar in preparing and presenting monthly and annual financial statements to the Headteacher, Governors, and Finance Committee.
- Manage payroll, pensions, and HMRC submissions in collaboration with the HR team.
- Understanding VAT calculations, recovery and part exemptions
- Oversee the preparation for annual audits and liaise with external auditors.
- Ensure compliance with all relevant accounting standards, charity commission regulations, and school policies.
- Advise on financial strategy, investment planning, and risk management.
- Work closely with senior leadership to align financial planning with the school’s development objectives.
- Supervise and support the finance team to maintain a high standard of accuracy and efficiency.
- Maintain strong relationships with banks, insurers, and other external stakeholders.
The successful Finance Manager will be:
- A fully qualified accountant (ACA, ACCA, CIMA, or equivalent).
- Bring proven experience in a finance leadership role, preferably within the education or non-profit sectors.
- Strong understanding of charity accounting and SORP.
- Excellent IT skills, including advanced Excel and financial software proficiency.
- Strong analytical, communication, and organisational skills.
- Ability to work collaboratively with a wide range of stakeholders.
- Experience in an independent or fee-paying school environment.
- Knowledge of school finance systems such as iFinance and ISAMS
You will be joining a collaborative team and a school which is entering the next stage of its ambitious commercial plans.
This is an all year through, on-site, full-time role.
Benefits include: free lunch during term time, free parking, competitive pension, 27 days leave.
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Job Reference FM560
For further details and an informal chat please contact Liz Nevitt on 07458 301524 or email liz@dedicaterecruitment.co.uk