Cluster Finance Manager

We are seeking an experienced Finance Manager to lead the financial management of a cluster of academies, ensuring strong financial control, compliance and effective use of resources. Working closely with senior leaders and academy principals, you will oversee finance operations, budgeting, forecasting and financial reporting while managing and developing a high-performing finance team.Key responsibilities: Lead and manage the Cluster Finance Team, providing coaching, development and performance management. Oversee month-end processes, financial reporting and compliance with Trust policies, ESFA requirements and accounting standards. Support academy leaders with financial advice, analysis, budgeting and decision-making. Lead annual budget setting, forecasting and financial planning across the cluster. Monitor academy budgets, identify efficiencies and drive continuous improvement in financial processes and controls. Act as the key contact for internal and external audits. Ensure accurate processing of income, expenditure, orders and payments across the academies. Build strong relationships with academy leaders, central finance teams and external stakeholders. About you: Qualified or part-qualified finance professional (or equivalent experience). Strong financial management, budgeting and forecasting experience. Previous leadership experience with the ability to develop and motivate finance teams. Excellent analytical, organisational and stakeholder management skills. ..... full job details .....