CFO

Hays Senior Finance are supporting an established Academies Trust based in Wiltshire, they are a growing, values-led organisation committed to delivering high-quality, inclusive education for children and young people, including those with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND).We are now seeking an exceptional leader to join our Executive Leadership Team in a pivotal role driving organisational performance and enabling outstanding outcomes.

The Role

This is a strategic executive leadership opportunity combining the responsibilities of Director of Business Delivery and Chief Financial Officer (CFO).You will act as the strategic lead for all Business Delivery functions, overseeing:

Finance
People Services
Estates & Facilities
ICT and Digital
Operational services
You will lead a high-performing senior team of 8-10 leaders, ensuring the Trust operates effectively, compliantly, and sustainably.

As CFO, you will take ownership of financial strategy, planning, reporting, and compliance, ensuring the Trust meets all statutory and regulatory requirements.

Key Responsibilities

Provide strategic leadership across all business functions, ensuring alignment with Trust priorities
Lead financial strategy, including budgeting, forecasting, and long-term financial planning
Ensure compliance with the Academy Trust Handbook and all statutory obligations
Deliver high-quality financial reporting and insights to the Board and Executive Team
Lead workforce strategy including recruitment, retention, reward, and organisational development
Oversee estates, ICT, and operational services to ensure efficiency, safety, and value for money
Drive performance against key organisational KPIs and High-Quality Trust Framework standards
Support Trust growth, including due diligence, expansion, and strategic development
Lead risk management and ensure robust internal controls and governance
About You

We are looking for a strategic, values-driven leader who can combine commercial acumen with a commitment to improving outcomes for children and young people.

You will bring:
✅ Significant senior executive leadership experience, ideally within education or the public sector
✅ A recognised accountancy qualification (ACCA, CIMA, CIPFA, ICAEW) or equivalent
✅ Proven experience in financial leadership, governance, and organisational strategy
✅ Strong leadership capability, with experience managing multi-disciplinary teams
✅ Excellent communication skills and the ability to influence at Board level
✅ A track record of driving improvement, managing risk, and delivering results
✅ A commitment to inclusion, equality, and delivering high-quality services

Experience within a Multi-Academy Trust or understanding of the education sector is highly desirable.

Why join?

A values-driven organisation with a strong social purpose
Opportunity to shape and influence Trust-wide strategy and growth
A senior, visible role with direct impact on outcomes for CYP
Collaborative and ambitious Executive Leadership Team
Commitment to professional development and continuous improvement
What you need to do now

If you're interested in this role, click 'apply now' to forward an up-to-date copy of your CV, or call us now. If this job isn't quite right for you but you are looking for a new position, please contact us for a confidential discussion on your career.

What you need to do now If you're interested in this role, click 'apply now' to forward an up-to-date copy of your CV, or call us now.

If this job isn't quite right for you but you are looking for a new position, please contact us for a confidential discussion on your career.

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