Finance Manager - Multi-Academy TrustLocation: BirminghamSalary: £45,000 - £47,000 per annum plus Local Government Pension Scheme

About the Role:Macildowie are excited to be recruiting on behalf of a prominent Multi-Academy Trust based in Birmingham. Our client is seeking an experienced and dynamic Finance Manager to provide senior leadership, strategic direction, and operational management for the Trust's central finance function. This is a fantastic opportunity to work closely with a passionate and engaging Director of Finance & Resources (CFO) and senior leadership team to shape the financial strategies and systems across the Trust.

Key Responsibilities:As Finance Manager, you will play a pivotal role in leading the central finance team and overseeing the financial operations across the Trust's schools. Key duties will include:

• Strategic Leadership: Supporting the CFO in driving continuous financial improvement across the Trust, ensuring effective financial management at all levels.
• Financial Oversight: Advising on and ensuring compliance with financial regulations, managing financial systems, and providing professional support and advice to all schools.
• Operational Excellence: Implementing and monitoring Trust-wide financial processes, ensuring schools are compliant and efficient in all fiscal operations.
• Contract Management: Leading on procurement, contract negotiations, service agreements, and cost-saving initiatives to ensure best value across the Trust.
• Project Leadership: Taking the lead on strategic management and service development projects, while advising on external matters such as funding bids and contract negotiations.
• Reporting & Analysis: Producing monthly KPI reports, analysing financial trends, and providing benchmarking analysis to support decision-making.
• Payroll Modelling & Planning: Managing payroll modelling for in-year, budget, and three-year estimates, ensuring schools are using resources effectively and within budget.

What We Are Looking For:The ideal candidate will have:

• Extensive experience in financial management, ideally within a multi-academy trust or educational setting although we are open to speaking to candidates from the wider public sector and wider commercial sector - this role is more about your values, attitude and aptitude for adding value and enriching the pupil's lives.
• The ideal candidate will be qualified although those who are currently studying a professional qualification or qualified by experience will also be considered.
• Knowledge of wider finance, statutory regulations, and experience in procurement, contract management, and funding bids if appropriate
• Excellent communication skills and the ability to advise and support senior leadership teams and school staff.
• Analytical and strategic mindset, with the ability to monitor financial trends and provide sound financial advice.

Why Join This Trust?This is a unique opportunity to join a growing and forward-thinking Multi-Academy Trust, where you'll play a key role in shaping the financial future of the organisation. You'll have the chance to work closely with senior leaders, influence strategic decisions, and lead on critical projects that drive improvement across multiple schools.

You will be rewarded with an attractive salary and benefits package including access to the local government pension scheme (c23%) plus 25 days holiday and flexible/hybrid working.

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