Finance Manager

Job title : Finance Manager
Location : Birmingham
Job type : Permanent
Salary : £45k - 47k per year
Sector : Digital & Media
Reference : 20833PBA
Finance Manager
Location: Birmingham - Hybrid
Salary: £45,000 - £47,000 per annum

About the Role
We are seeking an experienced and dynamic Trust Finance Manager to join the leadership team of a growing Trust in Birmingham. As a key player in the Trust’s non-teaching functions, you will provide strategic leadership across Financial Management, compliance and administration. You will be responsible for developing and enhancing efficient, high-quality systems and processes across the Trust.

Key Responsibilities

Leadership:

  • Provide strategic direction and operational management for the Trust’s non-curriculum functions.
  • Support the Director of Finance & Resources (CFO) in promoting a culture of continuous improvement within the Trust and its schools.
  • Lead the central finance function and manage the Trust’s financial systems.
  • Offer expert financial advice and support to all schools within the Trust.
  • Develop, implement, and monitor Trust-wide processes for support services, ensuring compliance across all schools.
  • Lead on strategic projects, policy development, and service improvements within the Trust.
  • Represent the Trust in external negotiations regarding contracts, procurement, and funding.

Financial Management & Reporting:

  • Collaborate with the CFO to prepare monthly budgets and long-term financial plans.
  • Manage balance sheet reconciliations, variance analysis, and journal processing.
  • Support operational directors and managers with financial information for grant applications, tenders, and other fundraising initiatives.
  • Oversee income monitoring, ensure funding is received, and handle finance queries from the ESFA.
  • Negotiate and monitor contracts, ensuring the Trust achieves best value on service agreements and capital projects.
  • Produce financial reports and forecasts, including a five-year capital expenditure plan for each school.
  • Maintain up-to-date knowledge of Academy finance issues, statutory and legislative changes.

IT Management:

  • Monitor and report on ICT performance, ensuring regular analysis and improvement of systems.
  • Continually review ICT service provision in line with the Trust’s growth strategy.

Line Management:

  • Manage and mentor the Trust Reconciliation Officer, ensuring the team is motivated and effective.

Qualifications & Experience

  • ACCA/ACA or CIMA qualified with relevant post-qualification experience.
  • Experience within an educational environment is desirable.
  • Proven experience in management reporting, budget management, and financial controls.
  • Ability to work with senior management and operational directors across multiple disciplines.
  • Strong IT skills, including proficiency in Excel (knowledge of Xero for Education is a plus).
  • Demonstrated ability to manage staff and deliver to deadlines.

If you are a highly motivated finance professional with a passion for driving operational excellence within the education sector, we’d love to hear from you.