Finance Director

 I am exclusiviely supporting, a growing and ambitious Multi-Academy Trust in the Halton/Runcorn area is seeking to appoint a Finance Director to join its Executive Leadership Team.

This is a hands-on, strategic leadership role, reporting directly to the CEO, and will play a critical part in shaping the Trust’s next phase of growth. Currently operating around 7 schools, the Trust has clear plans to expand to 10 schools over the next few years through further acquisitions.

With a small but dedicated finance team, this role will suit a Finance Director who enjoys being close to the detail while also operating at a senior, strategic level.

The Role

As Finance Director, you will:

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  Lead the Trust’s financial strategy, budgeting, forecasting, and long-term financial planning

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  Maintain strong financial controls, compliance, and governance across the Trust

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  Oversee day-to-day finance operations, remaining hands-on where required

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  Act as the financial face of the Trust, building strong relationships with key stakeholders

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  Work closely with the CEO to assess, model, and drive potential new school acquisitions

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  Collaborate with Headteachers and school leaders to support effective financial management at school level

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  Provide clear, insightful financial reporting to the Board and Executive Team

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  Support and develop the finance team as the Trust continues to grow

The Person

The successful individual will be a confident finance leader with:

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  Experience operating at a senior finance level, ideally within education, public sector, or a regulated environment

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  A collaborative leadership style and the ability to influence at executive and board level

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  Strong commercial and strategic thinking, balanced with a willingness to be hands on

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  A genuine interest in supporting schools and improving outcomes through sound financial stewardship

Benefits

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  Free on-site car parking

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  Local Government Pension Scheme (LGPS)

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  33 days annual leave

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  Some flexibility to work from home

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  Benenden Health Care

This is a rare opportunity to join a values-driven, acquisitive Trust at an exciting stage of its journey and play a key role in shaping its future.

All enquiries will be treated in the strictest confidence. Submissions will be on 22nd January with interviews likely to be held 29th January 2026.