Head of Finance Service Education Sector

Role: Head of Finance Service
Location: Enfield
Salary: £57,000 to £75,000
Hours: 36 hours per week
Contract Term: Permanent
Job Start: ASAP

Our client is seeking a driven, innovative and passionate individual to join their central team as Head of Finance Services. This is an excellent opportunity to be part of a growing and highly successful team that is forward thinking, dynamic and determined to make a difference, and is seeking a like minded individual who can support and lead the finances of the Trust.

The Head of Finance Service is responsible and accountable for ensuring that sound and appropriate financial governance and risk management arrangements are in place, prepare and monitor budgets and ensure the delivery of annual accounts in accordance with all statutory requirements.

To provide strategic advice to the Accounting Officer, Chief Operations Officer and senior leaders on complex financial issues, regulation updates, processes and report to the Board regularly.

Financial Management and Control – To be accountable and responsible for the following:

• Management of the finance department
• Providing a strategic finance service and hold accountability for the finance functions of the organisation, reporting to the Accounting Officer and Board.
• Ensure the processes around placing orders, purchasing goods and services, and payment of invoices are administered in such as a way as to reduce risk to our client.
• Maintaining timely and accurate accounting records and oversee a sound system of financial control.
• Ensuring that the requirements of the Companies House, DFE, ESFA and the Academy Trust Handbook are met, including the preparation and submission financial returns to the ESFA and other bodies.
• Preparing Annual Reports in accordance with ESFA guidelines and timescales
• Fulfilling the employer’s obligation for the Local Government Pension Scheme
• Installing, managing and maintaining a fully computerised financial management system that meets audit requirements, ensuring that all risks are regularly addressed. 
• Managing, developing and initiating financial management procedures that minimise financial risk.
• Undertaking regular review and evaluations for cost saving opportunities and procurement of services to achieve best value for our client.
• Managing the preparation of month end accounts, including payroll, bank reconciliation and monthly VAT return
• Preparation and guidance on all aspects of budget planning, advising the Board, Accounting Officer and Chief Operations Officer on important budgetary considerations.
• Seeking and pursuing ways of increasing income through different revenue streams.
• Managing the processing of all income, including banking, invoicing and reconciling.
• Managing the preparation of invoices and collection of fees and other dues, taking legal action where necessary to recover bad debts.
• Overseeing the payroll function