REED Accountancy and Finance are actively recruiting an Interim Financial Controller for an independent boarding and day school for ages 11 to 18 located in Dorset (Near Gillingham)
Please see details below
Job Title: Financial Controller
Reporting To: Director of Finance / Chief Finance Officer / Director of Operations
Sector Experience: School or Multi-Academy Trust (MAT)
Contract Type: Interim, Full-Time (37.5 hours)
Salary Range: £50,000 – £68,000 (depending on experience)
Role Purpose
*To lead and manage the financial operations of the school or trust, ensuring robust financial controls, accurate reporting, and strategic financial planning that supports educational outcomes.
Key Responsibilities
Financial Management & Reporting
*Oversee all financial operations including budgeting, forecasting, and reporting.
*Prepare monthly and annual financial statements in line with accounting standards.
*Liaise with auditors and manage the annual audit process.
*Ensure compliance with VAT, PAYE, Corporation Tax, and other statutory requirements.
Budgeting & Forecasting
*Lead the annual budget process, working with department heads and senior leadership.
*Monitor budget performance and provide variance analysis.
*Prepare revised forecasts and respond to ad hoc budget queries.
Cash Flow & Treasury
*Produce monthly cash flow forecasts.
*Manage banking relationships and investment of school funds.
*Ensure optimal liquidity and financial stability.
Systems & Controls
*Maintain and improve financial systems and internal controls.
*Ensure compliance with financial policies and procedures.
*Implement systems that support efficient financial operations.
Team Leadership
*Manage and develop the finance team.
*Ensure effective service delivery to internal stakeholders (e.g., school leaders, teachers, parents).
Stakeholder Engagement
*Provide financial advice and reports to the Trust Board, Principals, and other senior leaders.
*Communicate with parents regarding fee payments and financial queries (in independent schools).
*Support grant applications and fundraising efforts.
Qualifications & Skills
*ACA, ACCA, or CIMA qualified (or equivalent).
*Strong technical accounting and management reporting skills.
*Experience in education finance (desirable but not essential).
*Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
*Proficiency in financial software