Head of Finance

Contract: Full-Time, All Year Round Start: ASAP Reporting to: Chief Financial Officer Location: Wakefield Shape the Future of Finance in a Growing Education OrganisationWe are seeking an exceptional and experienced Head of Finance to join a thriving, values-led multi-academy organisation at an exciting stage of growth and development. This is a rare opportunity for an accomplished finance professional to combine strategic influence with operational leadership, driving financial excellence across a complex and expanding organisation that supports thousands of pupils and hundreds of staff. Working closely with the Chief Financial Officer, you will play a pivotal role in ensuring robust financial stewardship, developing high-performing finance systems and processes, and providing the strategic insight that enables leaders to make informed decisions that maximise impact and value for money. If you are passionate about strong governance, continuous improvement and the effective use of public funds, this role offers the opportunity to make a genuine difference while further developing your senior leadership career. About the RoleAs Head of Finance, you will lead the delivery of a high-quality finance service across a growing organisation, ensuring strong financial controls, accurate reporting, effective budget management and compliance with all regulatory requirements. You will provide leadership to the central finance team, oversee management accounting processes, support strategic planning and forecasting, and work closely with school and trust leaders to strengthen financial understanding and decision-making. The successful candidate will enjoy significant scope to shape finance practice, improve systems and processes, support organisational growth and deputise for the CFO when required. Key ResponsibilitiesStrategic Financial Leadership • Lead budget setting, forecasting and financial monitoring across multiple sites. • Develop and maintain academy and organisation-wide budgets aligned to strategic priorities. • Undertake financial modelling and scenario planning to support growth and sustainability. • Provide insightful financial analysis, challenge and advice to senior leaders and trustees. • Support long-term financial planning and resource allocation. Financial Management & Reporting • Lead the monthly management accounts cycle and financial reporting processes. • Oversee period-end and year-end procedures, including reconciliations, accruals and audit preparation. • Ensure compliance with accounting regulations, charity and company law, and sector-specific guidance. • Maintain robust financial controls and risk management arrangements. • Oversee VAT, banking, payments and fixed asset accounting processes. Systems, Controls & Continuous Improvement • Drive the development of efficient and consistent finance systems and processes. • Identify opportunities to improve reporting, compliance, accuracy and operational efficiency. • Develop financial guidance, procedures and training resources. • Promote a culture of continuous improvement and best practice across the finance function. Audit, Compliance & Governance • Coordinate internal and external audits. • Ensure compliance with regulatory and funding body requirements. • Support audit, finance and risk committees with high-quality reporting and evidence. • Monitor and mitigate financial risks across the organisation. Leadership & Stakeholder Engagement • Lead, mentor and develop the finance team. • Build trusted relationships with senior leaders, budget holders, trustees and external partners. • Present complex financial information clearly to non-finance audiences. • Provide constructive challenge to promote effective financial management and value for money. Growth & Development • Support due diligence and financial onboarding for new schools and services. • Contribute to the development of finance structures and reporting as the organisation grows. • Identify opportunities for income generation and efficiency savings. • Deputise for the Chief Financial Officer when required. About YouWe are looking for a finance leader who combines strong technical expertise with excellent communication and relationship-building skills. Essential Experience & Skills • Significant experience in financial management, budgeting, forecasting and reporting within a complex organisation. • Experience of preparing and presenting management accounts and financial reports to senior stakeholders. • Proven track record of leading finance teams and delivering high-quality finance services. • Strong understanding of financial controls, governance, compliance and risk management. • Experience of improving financial systems, processes and reporting. • Advanced analytical skills with the ability to identify financial trends, risks and opportunities. • Excellent stakeholder management and communication skills. • High levels of IT literacy, including strong Excel and finance systems capability. • Ability to manage competing priorities and deliver to demanding deadlines. QualificationsYou will hold: • AAT Level 4 qualification, be part-qualified, qualified by experience, or possess equivalent senior finance experience. • GCSE English and Mathematics (or equivalent). A degree in finance, accountancy, business or a related discipline, together with knowledge of academy trust finance, funding and compliance requirements, would be advantageous. Why Join Us?This is far more than a traditional Head of Finance position. You'll be joining a successful and growing organisation with ambitious plans for the future, where finance is recognised as a key strategic function. You'll have the opportunity to: • Influence strategic decision-making at senior leadership level. • Play a central role in supporting organisational growth and development. • Lead meaningful improvements to systems, controls and processes. • Develop your leadership experience in a highly visible role. • Work within a collaborative, values-driven culture. • Make a direct impact on outcomes for children and young people.