Head of Financial Planning

Head of Financial Planning

Required: ASAPHours: 36.5 hours per weekPackage: Full Time, PermanentSalary: Grade 6 (Points 41 – 49) £52,143 - £64,811Summit Learning Trust Mission StatementSuccess through EndeavourAmbition through ChallengeStrength through DiversityAbout this Role:We are seeking an experienced and qualified Head of Financial Planning to lead our finance planning and business partnering function. You will manage a team of Finance Business Partners and work closely with senior leaders across the Trust, providing high-quality financial insight, accurate reporting, and effective budget planning.This is a strategic and hands-on role, acting as a trusted adviser to our Executive Team, Principals, Trustees, and budget holders. You will ensure robust financial management, contribute to long-term financial planning, and play a key role in shaping the Trust’s financial strategy.Key Responsibilities:Lead and manage the Finance Business Partnering team, driving performance and professional development.Develop and coordinate the Trust’s annual budget-setting process, ensuring alignment with strategic priorities.Produce timely management accounts, control account reconciliations, and insightful financial reports.Provide financial challenge and advice to Principals, budget holders, and senior leaders to support effective decision-making.Support medium and long-term financial planning, including scenario modelling and funding forecasts.Prepare audit working papers and year-end schedules to support statutory accounts.About You:You will be a CCAB qualified accountant (ACA, ACCA, CIMA, CIPFA or equivalent) with proven senior-level finance experience, ideally in education, public sector, or complex multi-site organisations.You will also demonstrate:A strong track record in budget setting, management accounting, and financial business partnering. Experience of leading and developing a high-performing finance team.Excellent communication and influencing skills, with the ability to explain complex financial matters to non-finance colleagues.A proactive, solution-focused approach, with a commitment to continuous improvement.We are happy to explore flexible (home/office) working, subject to the operational requirements of the role.Why Join Summit Learning Trust?A welcoming, supportive, and inclusive working environment.Commitment to your professional development with high quality CPD opportunities and career progression.Access to staff wellbeing initiatives and a wide range of employee benefits.The chance to make a meaningful impact on the lives of young people.Informal conversations are warmly welcomed. Please contact Rebecca Hill, Executive Assistant at rebecca.hill@summitlearningtrust.org.uk to book an informal discussion with Vince Green, CEO.The closing date is midday Monday 15 September 2025. Interviews to be held Monday 22 September 2025.We warmly welcome applications from candidates of all backgrounds and communities. Summit Learning Trust is proud to be an equal opportunities employer, committed to creating a workplace where everyone feels valued, respected and supported to thrive.We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expect all colleagues to share this commitment. All appointments will be subject to an enhanced DBS check, including a Children’s Barred List check, and online searches will be conducted for shortlisted candidates. Our Child Protection and Safeguarding Policy is available to view here. If you require the application form in a different format, please contact ..... full job details .....