School Finance Manager - 3 Months Contract

Job Title: School Finance Manager
Location: Poole
Salary: £40,000
Contract Type: Full Time - 3 month contract
Start Date: ASAP
Application Deadline: 5 days

The School is seeking a highly motivated and experienced Finance Manager to lead and manage the financial operations of our school. This is a key leadership role working closely with the Headteacher, Governors, and administrative team to ensure sound financial management and compliance with statutory requirements.

• Prepare and manage the school’s annual budget, forecasts, and monthly financial reports

• Monitor income and expenditure against budgets and provide timely reports to leadership

• Manage payroll, procurement, and invoicing processes

• Ensure compliance with financial regulations, audit requirements, and funding conditions

• Lead on financial aspects of funding bids and grant applications

• Liaise with external auditors, the Local Authority, and funding bodies

• Provide strategic financial advice to support school improvement plans

• Relevant finance qualification (e.g., AAT, CIMA, ACCA, or equivalent)

• Experience in financial management, ideally within an educational or public sector setting

• Strong understanding of budgeting, financial reporting, and accounting principles

• Excellent IT skills, particularly in financial software and Excel

• Must have an Enhanced DBS on update service or within 1 year

• High level of accuracy, integrity, and attention to detail

• Strong interpersonal and communication skills

• Knowledge of school funding and the DfE financial framework

• Experience with school-specific finance systems (e.g., SIMS, FMS, PS Financials)

• Supportive and collaborative working environment

• Opportunities for professional development and training

• A chance to make a real difference in the lives of children and young people

To apply, please send a completed application form and a covering letter. For more information or an informal conversation about the role.