Finance Manager

As Finance Manager at St Wilfrid's CE Academy, your purpose is to ensure the smooth and efficient administration, planning, and development of our financial support services. You will play a crucial role in providing specialist financial guidance and advice to senior management and the trust board, contributing to the continued success and stability of our Academy. Your expertise and dedication will help maintain our strong financial health, allowing us to focus on delivering excellence in education and fostering a supportive and nurturing environment for our students and staff., Financial Management:

• Manage the Academy's budgetary allocation, providing financial information to stakeholders.


• Collaborate with the Chief Operating & Finance Officer to plan and set the annual budget.


• Ensure financial compliance by monitoring expenditure, producing monthly statements, and preparing final accounts.


• Maintain systems and information for regular audit checks.


• Assist senior management in ensuring accurate budgetary expenditure throughout the year.


• Oversee effective administration of financial procedures in line with statutory guidelines and regulations.


Financial Systems & Processes:

• Maintain data within the Academy's financial system, ensuring accuracy and adherence to coding standards.


• Administer periodic returns and manage VAT submissions.


• Oversee finance-related processes including payments, invoicing, and cash handling.


• Support payroll administration and ensure accurate processing of payroll information.


• Administer pension services and provide support to the Office Manager as needed.


Communication & Collaboration:

• Monitor shared email accounts and respond to queries promptly.


• Manage the Parent Pay account and liaise with internal and external stakeholders.


• Foster positive relationships with staff and students, presenting in a professional manner.


Staff Development & Leadership:

• Maintain a balanced workload and support staff development processes.


• Line manage the Finance & HR Assistant and provide training in correct procedures.


Promotion of Academy Ethos:

• Actively promote the Christian ethos of the Academy.


• Ensure compliance with relevant policies and procedures, including Child Protection, Health and Safety, and Data Protection.


• Engage in quality assurance procedures and contribute to the overall ethos of the Academy.


• Attend meetings and actively promote the Academy in the community.


Additional Duties:

• Undertake any other duties as required by the Principal or the COFO., Contribute to and uphold the overall Christian vision, aims and values of the Academy


• Recognise own strengths and expertise and use these to inspire, advise and support others


• Promote teamwork, working in partnership to ensure effective working relations


• Show resilience, approachability and emotional maturity when working with others


• Be aware and comply with equal opportunities and all Academy policies at all times


• Respond to complex requests and correspondence from stakeholders and external agencies


• Participate in training and other learning activities and performance development as required


• Maintain confidentiality at all times in respect of Academy related matters and to prevent disclosure of confidential and sensitive information


• Undertake any other duties commensurate with the level of this post
  
  Essential Skills & Experience:


• Proven financial management track record.


• Minimum 5 GCSEs (including English & Maths) or equivalent.


• Level 4 qualification (MAAT) and a desire to further develop skills.


• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.


• Experience in managing resources and financial systems.


• Proficiency in relevant software (e.g., Microsoft Office, SIMS, PS Financials, Sage).


• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.


Desirable Skills & Experience:

• Experience working in an educational setting.


• Familiarity with the Academies Financial Handbook.


• Degree or relevant professional qualification in Finance (FMAAT, ACCA, CGMA),


• Understanding of relevant financial regulations and associated legislation.


• Knowledge of national and local education policies, initiatives, and strategies.


• Awareness of Data Protection Act requirements and Child Protection procedures.
  
  I am delighted to welcome you to St Wilfrid's Church of England Academy, a high-performing single academy trust in the North West.


The Academy is searching for an experienced Finance professional to act as our Finance Manager. The Academy is in a strong position, with an annual income of more than £10 million, healthy reserves and a well-earned reputation for excellence.

You would act as the Finance Manager of the trust, working closely with the Chief Operating & Finance Officer (COFO) to lead on the financial management and ensure probity and compliance in all areas.

We are exploring Multi Academy Trust (MAT) formation, and are seeking an individual with the ability to train others and to work independently. We're fully committed to your professional growth, and this role offers a unique opportunity to develop your financial expertise and leadership skills within a growing organisation.

As a Church of England Academy, who you are is just as important to us as your skills and talents. Our staff are dedicated, compassionate and reflect the Academy vision and values in their day to day lives.

We invite you to explore this exciting opportunity to join a thriving educational community. If you are a passionate and experienced finance professional who thrives in a supportive environment and shares our commitment to excellence, we encourage you to submit your application.

Mrs V Michael