Finance Manager

FINANCE MANAGER £44,937 - £47,925 - DEPENDING ON EXPERIENCE SOUTH WEST LONDON PERMANENT ROLE – FULL TIME-OFFICE BASED My client is an educational trust looking to recruit an experienced and hands and motivated Finance Manager to support the Director of Finance with financial management across their institutions. This is an excellent opportunity for a finance professional who is passionate about delivering high-quality financial management, supporting strategic decision-making, and ensuring robust financial controls within an education setting. The Finance Manager will play a key role in ensuring strong, accurate and compliant financial management across the trust, overseeing day-to-day finance operations while providing insightful financial reporting, forecasting and advice to senior leaders. Key Responsibilities: • Line manage Finance Officer(s), providing support and oversight across finance operations. • Approve purchase orders, invoices and BACS payment runs. • Lead month-end processes, including journals, reconciliations and financial close activities. • Prepare monthly management accounts and financial reforecasts. • Support annual budget preparation and three-year financial planning. • Monitor income and expenditure against budgets and identify financial risks and opportunities. • Ensure compliance with financial regulations, policies and internal controls. • Support procurement processes and value-for-money initiatives. • Contribute to year-end financial activities and audit requirements. • Provide financial insight, analysis and advice to support informed decision-making by leaders. Essential Requirements: • Part-qualified or fully qualified accountant, or qualified through significant relevant experience. • Minimum of five years' relevant finance experience • Strong understanding of financial management, budgeting and reporting processes • Proven experience of continuous professional development • Excellent organisational, communication and stakeholder management skills • Commitment to high standards, accuracy and continuous improvement • Awareness, understanding and commitment to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. Desirable Experience: • Experience working within the education sector or wider public sector finance environment. • Knowledge of school administration and finance systems, including: • PS Financials • Arbor • IMP • Edupay