Head of Finance

The Head of Finance will work closely with the COO, Heads and Governors, providing strategic financial leadership and ensuring robust financial management across the School. Key areas of responsibility include:

• Strategic financial leadership - long-term planning, scenario modelling and insightful reporting.
• Financial management & control - budgeting, forecasting, cash flow, investments and audit oversight.
• Payroll leadership - managing payroll and pensions, ensuring compliance and process improvement.
• Compliance & governance - meeting all regulatory, charity and financial obligations.
• VAT & taxation - leading VAT processes, advising on tax implications and overseeing Gift Aid.
• Debtor management & family liaison - ensuring fair, supportive engagement with families and careful management of bursary/hardship funds.
• Team leadership - managing and developing a team of four finance professionals.
  
  Qualified accountant (ACA, ACCA, CIMA or equivalent).
• Senior financial leadership and line management experience.
• Strong understanding of financial systems, controls, governance and compliance.
• Strategic, improvement-focused and confident influencing at senior level.
• Committed to the values, community and safeguarding responsibilities of St Catherine's.
Desirable - experience in independent schools or multi-entity charities, knowledge of Gift Aid, experience with school MIS/finance systems.

£72,000-£80,000 | Full-time (0.8 considered) | Permanent Celebrating 140 years in 2025, St Catherine's combines academic excellence with a commitment to confidence, curiosity and character. This role offers the opportunity to modernise systems, strengthen controls and contribute to the School's future development.,
• Generous pension scheme (up to 12% employer contribution).
• 25 days' holiday plus Bank Holidays.
• Fee remission for daughters attending the school.
• Health Cash Plan
• Lunch provided during term time
• On-site parking, and Cycle to Work scheme