Deputy Chief Financial Officer

Summary:

Deputy Chief Financial Officer job opportunity with a leading UK education charity.

About the School:

A school with a long-standing reputation for excellence in girls’ education, offering innovative learning environments from early years through to sixth form.

The Opportunity:

As Deputy Chief Financial Officer, you will provide strategic and operational financial leadership across a complex, multi-entity organisation. This role is pivotal in ensuring the financial integrity and long-term sustainability of a school with a strong global presence in girls’ education.

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead and oversee financial accounting, reporting, tax, treasury, systems, and controls across the organisation.
• Ensure the accuracy and integrity of the school’s financial position and governance.
• Provide high-quality financial insights to senior leaders and Trustees to support informed decision-making.
• Develop and lead high-performing finance teams across multiple entities.
• Drive continuous improvement in financial systems, processes, and capabilities.
• Collaborate with school and Trust Office leaders to align financial strategies with organisational goals.
• Maintain strong relationships with external stakeholders including auditors, tax authorities, and financial institutions.
• Support the Chief Financial Officer in strategic planning and execution of financial initiatives.

Qualifications & Skills:

Required

• Qualified accountant (ACA, ACCA, or CIMA).
• Significant senior-level experience in a complex, multi-entity organisation.
• Deep expertise in financial reporting, statutory accounts, audit, tax, and treasury.
• Strong leadership and team management experience.
• Ability to operate effectively at executive and trustee level.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.

Preferred

• Experience in education or the charity sector.
• Demonstrated success in driving financial strategy and governance.
• Experience in leading large-scale financial transformation projects.
• Strong understanding of UK charity regulations and governance frameworks.

Compensation & Benefits:

• Competitive salary and benefits package.
• Opportunities for professional development and leadership growth.
• Work within a values-led organisation committed to excellence in education.