An independent co-educational school based in London, the institution offers a high-quality education from junior through senior levels. With a strong focus on academic excellence, personal development, and a supportive community, the school strives to foster intellectual growth and prepare students for success in a rapidly changing world. The school is committed to providing a well-rounded experience, combining rigorous academics with a broad range of extracurricular opportunities. Through responsible financial management and continuous improvement, the institution ensures a sustainable and impactful educational environment for all its students.
Leadership and Management:
* Team Leadership: Provide strong leadership to the Finance Team (5 direct reports, 1 indirect report), offering guidance and support.
* Financial Risk Management: Minimize financial risk for the College by implementing effective controls and policies.
* Stakeholder Engagement: Maintain robust communication with parents, staff, and external stakeholders about financial matters.
* Continuous Improvement: Foster a culture of ongoing improvement within the finance function, ensuring efficiency and best practices.
* Cash Management: Ensure effective cash management and payment processes are up to date and aligned with industry best practices.
Financial Management and Reporting:
* Annual Reporting: Assist the CFO in preparing the Group’s annual report and financial accounts.
* Budget and Forecast Management: Work closely with the Heads of the Senior and Junior Schools to manage budgets and monthly management accounts.
* External Auditor Liaison: Act as a point of contact for the external auditors and ensure they have the necessary information to carry out their duties.
* Quarterly Reporting: Provide quarterly financial information to the lending bank.
* Financial Controls: Ensure that robust financial controls are implemented and regularly followed.
* Cash Flow Management: Monitor cash flow and prepare monthly cash flow forecasts.
* VAT Compliance: Ensure VAT returns are accurate and submitted in a timely manner.
Finance and Payment Systems:
* Compliance with Regulations: Ensure compliance with Payment Services Regulations.
* System Development: Lead on the development and modification of financial systems as needed.
Fee Billing and Collection:
* Fee Billing: Oversee the fee billing process, ensuring accurate and timely invoicing of parents/carers.
* Debt Collection: Lead on the fee collection process and ensure that debts are followed up and managed effectively.
* Data Management: Ensure that data in the fee billing system is accurate, including details of fee payers and any remissions.
* Debt Reporting: Regularly report to the Heads of Schools and CFO on the status of fee debtors.
Expenditure Management:
* Expenditure Oversight: Ensure accurate and timely processing of all expenditure and that it is properly recorded.
* Fraud Prevention: Implement systems and procedures to protect against fraud and misuse of funds.
Payroll and Pensions:
* Payroll Oversight: Manage the payroll process across all Group entities, ensuring timely and accurate payroll reporting.
* Compliance with Legislation: Ensure compliance with HMRC and relevant payroll and pension regulations, including the Teacher Pension Scheme and the Independent Schools Pension Scheme.
* Pension Reporting: Oversee pension reporting to staff and relevant pension providers.
General Responsibilities:
* Child Safeguarding: Promote and safeguard the welfare of young children in line with the College’s safeguarding policies.
* Other Duties: Undertake other duties as required by the CFO, Head, or Board of Governors.
* Professional Development: Stay informed about sector policies, regulations, and best practices through professional networks and other sources.
Essential Skills & Experience:
* Strong financial management, reporting, and budgeting experience, ideally within an educational or non-profit setting.
* Proven leadership and people management skills.
* Expertise in financial systems, cash flow management, and financial controls.
* Understanding of payroll and pension regulations (including HMRC and pension schemes).
* Ability to engage with a wide range of stakeholders, including parents, auditors, and senior management.
* Experience with fee billing, debt collection, and income management.
* A proactive approach to process improvement and risk management.
* Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal.
Qualifications:
* A recognized financial qualification (ACA, ACCA, CIMA or equivalent) is typically required.
* Significant experience in a senior finance role, with a track record of leadership in a similar environment.