Finance Business Partner
Finance Business Partner
Permanent | Full Time | Flexible Working Considered |
Salary: Grade 6, points 16 (£40,280) to 19 (£44,096)
We are a successful and expanding academy trust with 14 schools, and more are expected to join our family in the coming years. We are seeking a highly skilled and experienced Finance Business Partner to join our organisation.
In this crucial role, you will work closely with school leaders to oversee and monitor budgets, ensuring they are accurate and up to date. You will develop strong, collaborative relationships with school leaders, supporting them in understanding transactional processes within their schools and reporting variances to the Finance Manager and Finance Director.
Building relationships is at the heart of this role. You will guide school leaders in understanding their financial positions and support them in planning for the future with confidence and clarity.
Responsibilities:
- Build strong and meaningful relationships with school leaders, acting as their trusted finance partner.
- Meet regularly with school leaders, both individually and collectively, to understand their school’s needs and plans, and support them in developing credible and achievable budgets based on consistent planning assumptions.
- Review monthly forecasts with school leaders to identify and understand variances, ensuring appropriate corrective actions are taken to maintain budget adherence.
- Develop efficient reporting systems to translate financial performance into clear commentary, providing insight into current positions and the steps being taken.
- Work collaboratively with the Trust's Finance Manager and Finance Director to design and refine financial systems and processes, improving efficiency and effectiveness while maintaining robust internal controls.
Qualifications/Experience:
- Recognised professional qualifications and/or relevant experience for the role.
- Experience of working in an academy, multi-academy trust, or school setting is essential.
- Strong understanding of budgeting and financial planning.
- Proven experience in financial management, including the preparation of financial statements and budgets.
- In-depth knowledge of financial systems and processes, with a track record of implementing improvements.
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills to build strong relationships with stakeholders.
- Ability to work collaboratively and effectively in a fast-paced environment.
If you are a highly motivated and experienced finance professional seeking an opportunity to make a meaningful impact, we encourage you to apply. Join our team and contribute to the success of our schools and the Trust's financial operations.
The SDBE Multi-Academy Trust is committed to actively addressing discrimination in all its forms. We strive to ensure that everyone in our community has fair and equal access to opportunities and an inclusive experience within employment. We welcome applications from all backgrounds and communities, particularly those currently underrepresented in our workforce. We are respectful and supportive of all individuals, regardless of race, age, religion, gender identity, sexual orientation, caring responsibilities, disabilities, or cultural background.
The SDBE MAT is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and we expect all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. This post is subject to a satisfactory enhanced DBS check and references.
Prospective candidates are invited to contact Paul Goodwin, Finance Director, (paul.goodwin@sdbemat.org) to arrange an informal discussion about the job. Application packs are also available from Thomas Scrace, HR Business Partner (Thomas.scrace@southwark.anglican.org
Closing date for applications: 12noon Monday 3rd March 2025
Interview: Thursday 6th March 2025