Finance Manager

Our client, an esteemed independent school in west Kent, is seeking an experienced and strategic Finance Manager to oversee the school’s financial operations. This is a key leadership role responsible for ensuring sound financial management, regulatory compliance, and efficient budgetary planning to support the school’s long-term sustainability and growth.

Reporting to the Bursar and leading a small team of two, the Finance Manager is responsible for:

• Leading on the day-to-day financial operations, including budgeting, forecasting, financial reporting, and cash flow management.
• Support the Bursar in preparing and presenting monthly and annual financial statements to the Headteacher, Governors, and Finance Committee.
• Manage payroll, pensions, and HMRC submissions in collaboration with the HR team.
• Understanding VAT calculations, recovery and part exemptions
• Oversee the preparation for annual audits and liaise with external auditors.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant accounting standards, charity commission regulations, and school policies.
• Advise on financial strategy, investment planning, and risk management.
• Work closely with senior leadership to align financial planning with the school’s development objectives.
• Supervise and support the finance team to maintain a high standard of accuracy and efficiency.
• Maintain strong relationships with banks, insurers, and other external stakeholders.

The successful Finance Manager will be:

• A fully qualified accountant (ACA, ACCA, CIMA, or equivalent).
• Bring proven experience in a finance leadership role, preferably within the education or non-profit sectors.
• Strong understanding of charity accounting and SORP.
• Excellent IT skills, including advanced Excel and financial software proficiency.
• Strong analytical, communication, and organisational skills.
• Ability to work collaboratively with a wide range of stakeholders.
• Experience in an independent or fee-paying school environment.
• Knowledge of school finance systems such as iFinance and ISAMS

You will be joining a collaborative team and a school which is entering the next stage of its ambitious commercial plans.

This is an all year through, on-site, full-time role.

Benefits include: free lunch during term time, free parking, competitive pension, 27 days leave.

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