Finance Manager

Employer:

Howell's School (GDST),

Location:

Cardiff. Contract Type:
Permanent,

Hours:

Part Time (35 hours per week during term time plus 25 days of school closure periods). Salary: TBC.

Start Date:

As soon as possible. Expiry: 15 June 2026.

Reporting to:
Director of Finance and Operations. Line Management:
Finance Officer.

We are looking for an experienced Finance Manager to play a lead role in supporting the smooth and effective financial operation of the school through the delivery of accurate, timely and well‑managed finance processes. Leading day‑to‑day finance activity, the postholder will ensure that financial transactions are processed efficiently, records are maintained accurately and reporting, budgeting and compliance activity are delivered in line with GDST policies and procedures.

With a strong focus on financial control, accuracy and service, you will oversee a wide range of finance activity including accounts payable, accounts receivable, reconciliations, reporting, budgeting, audit support and financial analysis. You will contribute to a well‑run school environment by ensuring that financial information is handled carefully, resources are managed effectively and school leaders receive clear and reliable financial support.

• An accountancy or financial qualification, such as AAT to technician level or equivalent, and a good level of education or equivalent relevant professional experience.
• A strong understanding of accounting principles, finance processes, controls and regulatory requirements.
• A good understanding of budgeting, financial monitoring and the production of accurate financial reports.
• The ability to analyse financial information, identify trends and variances and use management information to support decision‑making.
• Practical involvement in purchase ledger, general ledger, sales ledger, bank reconciliations and month‑end finance processes.
• Proven budget management experience and sound financial acumen.
• Experience supporting financial reporting, monitoring and internal accounting processes.

Howell’s School, Llandaff, is one of the oldest girls’ schools in Wales, having opened in August 1860. Since then, it has steadily expanded, both in terms of student numbers and physical size. The school now caters for girls from the age of 3 to 16 and girls and boys 16‑18. Since 1980 it has been a member of the Girls’ Day School Trust, the largest organisation of independent schools in the UK.

Its 25 member schools all have a reputation for consistently high academic standards, superb pastoral support and enviable co‑curricular programmes.

The facilities inside the Victorian building and its more modern extensions are first‑class and the opportunities for extracurricular activities, teamwork and confidence‑building numerous. Academically, the school provides great added value, with results at both GCSE and A Level regularly greatly exceeding expectations.

• Access to extensive professional development opportunities.
• Training grants for qualifications.
• Generous flexible private pension scheme.
• Free life assurance benefit.
• Discount of up to 50% on fees for children at GDST schools.
• Interest‑free loans for training, computer purchase loans and travel season ticket loans.
• Cycle to Work scheme.
• Competitive terms and conditions of employment.

Applicants must be willing to undergo child protection checks appropriate to the post, including online searches and checks with past employers and the Disclosure and Barring Service. The GDST is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children.

The GDST is committed to diversity, inclusion and real change: a family where every individual is valued, respected and included. We welcome applications from all suitably qualified candidates and from a range of backgrounds and experiences including race, gender, disability, religion/belief, sexual orientation or age. The GDST is a Disability Confident Committed employer, and is committed to equal opportunities in employment, training and development through an Equal Opportunities Policy.

The closing date for application is 5pm on Monday 15th June, with interviews to be held shortly afterwards.