Interim Head of Finance

Ivy Rock Partners is delighted to be supporting a well-established and growing Academy Trust in London with the appointment of an Interim Head of Finance on a 9–12 month contract. There is a part-time option if preferred.

This is an excellent opportunity for an experienced finance leader to join a values-driven education organisation at a pivotal time. Reporting directly to the Chief Finance Officer, you will lead the finance function, providing both strategic and operational financial leadership across the Trust.

The successful candidate will play a key role in ensuring robust financial management, compliance, reporting, budgeting and stakeholder engagement, while supporting the wider leadership team in delivering high-quality outcomes.

Key responsibilities will include:

• Leading the Trust's finance function and managing the central finance team
• Overseeing budget setting, forecasting and financial planning across the Trust
• Producing high-quality monthly management accounts and financial reporting
• Leading the preparation of statutory accounts and coordinating external audit processes
• Managing cashflow, investments, banking arrangements and financial controls
• Supporting procurement, contract management and value-for-money initiatives
• Providing financial insight and analysis to senior leaders, trustees and academy leaders
• Supporting organisational growth and strategic projects
• Acting as a trusted advisor to the executive leadership team on all financial matters

We are seeking a qualified accountant (ACA, ACCA, CIMA or equivalent) (or qualified by experience if you have previously worked in a schools environment before) with a proven track record of operating at a senior finance level.

The ideal candidate will bring:

• Significant experience in financial leadership, management accounting and statutory reporting
• Experience leading and developing finance teams
• Strong stakeholder management skills and the ability to influence senior leaders
• Excellent analytical, planning and organisational capabilities
• Experience with in the education sector, ideally within an Academy Trust environment
• Knowledge of academy funding and regulatory requirements would be highly advantageous
• Experience of academy finance systems and education sector reporting requirements is desirable