Director of Finance - Interim 12 month FTC

The Director of Finance will report directly to the CFO and will be responsible for the effective management and development of financial resources in line with the organisation's vision. The post-holder will oversee that all relevant regulations and legislation are complied with.

Client Details

Interim Director of Finance required on a 12-month fixed term contract basis for a leading multi academy trust within the Surrey/South London area

Description

The Director of Finance will be key in supporting the CFO, Principals and College leadership team with implementation and actions within the five-year strategic plans for both the College and the Academy Trust, with a particular focus on the financial use of resources.

The Director of Finance will provide direction and leadership for the College & Academy Trust finance teams and will be sufficiently flexible to deal with the range of challenges of a complex organisation.

The Director of Finance will work closely with Principals, Directors, Heads of Service and will form part of the Senior Finance Management Team. The Director of Finance will work in collaboration with allied professionals and will need to maintain regular contact with a variety of bodies. These will include:

· HMRC

· ESFA and other funding bodies

· Local Authorities

· Shared Service Teams

· Auditors and other relevant external bodies

1. Supporting the CFO and ESLT in the strategic direction through the efficient and effective deployment of resources.

2. Overseeing the production and preparation of the Trust Statutory accounts in adherence with DfE and EFA guidelines measured by clean and unqualified opinion.

3. Lead and present the preparation and submission of financial returns to the DfE, EFA, SFA and other relevant organisations within specific deadlines, not limited to the Academies Accounts Return, March Accounts Return, Budget Return & FMGS.

4. Oversight of monthly production of Consolidated Management Accounts Pack for Board including correct treatment of inter-company

5. Responsible for ensuring compliance with regards to VAT returns, Gift Aid claims, Corporation Tax returns, Fraud investigations and other mandatory requirements manage audit thereon. Advise the Directors/Trustees on all relevant aspects of Company and Taxation Law.

6. Overseeing the preparation, management and monitoring of the Trust budgets, five-year financial plans including Consolidated I&E, Balance Sheet, Cash flow statements, commentary and dashboards for. Review and challenge to ensure they are robust and suitable for presentation to the Boards.

7. Drive improvements in the production of statutory and management accounts processes that enables time and efficiencies for the teams to focus on the strategic objectives.

8. Be responsible for oversight and mitigation actions for the Finance Risk Register

9. Assist the CFO with policy making, planning and evaluation, staff appointments and reporting to Board.

10. To oversee all audit processes, ensure that recommendations are acted on and maintain the audit finding feedback report for audit committee.

11. Assist the CFO in consolidation of the various local government pension schemes to ensure the long-term viability and finding of the schemes are maintained. Ensure annual valuations are completed as required.

12. Oversee regular updates and implementation the Trust's financial regulations and ensure adherence to them.

13. Monitor the Trust's cash flow, ensuring that payments are made within agreed time limits and surplus funds are invested to maximise returns.

14. Oversee the Trust's investments and advise the Finance & Resources Committee on investment policy.

15. Ensure all the Finance team Heads are on purpose with the delivery and implementation of an integrated finance system that supports service delivery for the finance teams but also the College and Academy clients.

16. To line manage the including monitoring of staff performance and appraisals, annual leave, sickness, risk assessment and other relevant staff matters.

17. Provide support and challenge to the CFO and Finance team by showing exceptional leadership qualities.

Profile

A successful Director of Finance should have:

Previously worked or currently working in a similar Director of Finance role

Education sector experience is preferred but not essential

Good understanding of both management and financial accounting

Previous staff supervisory experience

Candidates my be able to start immediately or have a short notice period.

Job Offer

• Salary between £80,000 and £90,000, dependent on the level of experience.
• 12-month fixed-term contract.
• Opportunity to work within the not-for-profit sector
• 28 days holiday
• 15% local government pension scheme
• Hybrid working

If you're interested in this role, apply now.

People are at the heart of Michael Page. We are committed to creating an inclusive environment. As an inclusive recruiter we welcome applications from people of all backgrounds, identities and experiences. If you require any adjustments or accommodations during the recruitment process, we'll work with you to ensure you can perform at your best.