Finance Business Partner

Ashley Kate HR & Finance are proud to be supporting an Education provider in recruiting a Regional Finance Business Partner to lead financial planning and decision making across a group of secondary academies. This is a highly influential position where your expertise will directly support long‑term financial stability and high standards across the region.

This isn't a typical finance position, it's a strategic business partnering role where you'll work closely with senior leaders to shape financial performance across multiple schools. You'll act as the trusted advisor for all finance‑related matters, ensuring leaders have insight and confidence to make well‑informed decisions.

Key responsibilities:

Lead the 3‑year financial planning cycle and support sustainable budgeting across the secondary portfolio
Provide expert guidance, challenge and support on all finance matters within your academies
Manage the production of accurate monthly and annual accounts, financial reports, reconciliations, cashflow updates and VAT submissions
Deliver clear financial insight to support strategic planning and help senior leaders achieve their school priorities
Complete quarterly reforecasts, review variances and advise on actions required to stay on track
Build strong professional partnerships with school leaders, auditors, internal teams and external stakeholders
Support and develop colleagues within the finance function, contributing to a collaborative and high‑performing teamThe ideal candidate:

Part‑qualified accountant status or relevant equivalent experience
Strong skills in financial planning, reporting and analysis
Confidence to challenge, influence and support senior stakeholders
Excellent communication and relationship building abilities
Experience within education/academies (helpful but not required)
A proactive, self‑managed approach and ability to work to tight deadlines
A commitment to contributing to a positive, values‑driven cultureWhat's on offer:

A strategic finance role with real impact and visibility
Hybrid working, including the option to work from home at least once a week
Ongoing professional development
A supportive and collaborative finance team
The chance to shape financial outcomes across multiple academiesAbout Us

We are dedicated to fostering a diverse and inclusive community. In line with our Diversity and Inclusion policy, we welcome applications from all qualified individuals, regardless of age, gender, ethnicity, sexual orientation, or disability. As a Disability Confident Employer, and part of the Nicholas Associates Group, we are committed to supporting candidates with disabilities, and we're happy to discuss flexible working options.

We are committed to protecting the privacy of all our candidates and clients. If you choose to apply, your information will be processed in accordance with the Nicholas Associates Group of companies
Only candidates based in UK and eligible to work in UK are allowed