Head of Finance

Summary:

Head of Finance opportunity at a forward-thinking school in Oxford. Lead financial operations and strategic planning.

About the School:

A school with a strong academic focus and a diverse range of activities, committed to excellence in education and staff wellbeing. It fosters a friendly, inclusive environment with opportunities for professional growth and development.

The Opportunity:

As the Head of Finance, you will lead the school’s financial operations and provide strategic financial insight to support the school’s long-term goals. This is a key leadership role within the Bursary, where you will manage a team and oversee all financial activities, from day-to-day operations to long-term planning.

Key Responsibilities:

• Manage and oversee the full range of financial operations, including budgeting, forecasting, and management accounts.
• Lead a team of six and ensure the smooth running of payroll, cashflow, and regulatory reporting.
• Coordinate audit preparation, VAT, and tax compliance to maintain financial integrity.
• Provide clear and timely financial insights to support strategic decision-making across the school.
• Collaborate with senior leaders and departmental managers to align financial planning with the school’s strategic goals.
• Ensure all financial reporting meets regulatory requirements and supports the school’s operational needs.
• Identify and implement improvements to financial systems and processes.
• Support the Director of Finance in the development and execution of financial strategies.

Qualifications & Skills:

Required

• Professional qualification in accounting (e.g., ACCA, CIMA, ACA).
• Significant experience in financial management, ideally within a complex and multi-faceted organisation.
• Proven ability to lead a team and manage multiple workstreams effectively.
• Strong understanding of budgeting, forecasting, and financial reporting.
• Experience with payroll, tax, and regulatory compliance.
• Excellent organisational and analytical skills with the ability to make sound financial judgements.

Preferred

• Experience in the education or independent sector.
• Background in managing large-scale financial operations with a turnover of £40 million or more.
• Experience in audit preparation and tax planning.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills for working with senior leaders and across the organisation.
• Commitment to professional development and continuous improvement in financial practices.

Compensation & Benefits:

• Competitive salary and benefits package.
• 30 days’ annual leave, plus bank holidays.
• Free membership to the Nuffield Health Fitness and Wellbeing Gym.
• Free meals during term time.
• Support for continuing professional development and further qualifications.
• Defined contribution pension scheme with employer contribution.