Finance Officer

• Location: South West London (travel required across designated academies)
• Job Type: Interim, with potential for a permanent role
• Reports to: Head of Finance

We are seeking a dedicated Finance Officer to join the team in this growing Multi Academy Trust. Under the leadership of the Finance Director and supported by the Finance team, you will be responsible for delivering operational finance support across two academies within the Trust. This role involves a range of finance, payroll, income, and procurement activities, ensuring the accurate processing of financial transactions and the provision of timely financial information to support effective school operations.

Day-to-Day of the Role:

• Support the day-to-day financial operations for two of our academy schools.
• Maintain all systems used by the schools to record and manage income.
• Work in partnership with school staff to seek and obtain value for money in the procurement and purchasing of goods and services.
• Raise purchase orders for expenditure required, seeking approval in line with the current Scheme of Delegation.
• Assist Finance Business Partners with the month-end processes, such as preparing accruals, prepayments, and reconciliations.
• Work flexibly across designated academies; building good working relationships with Central Heads of Service, academy finance staff, and Headteachers.

Required Skills & Qualifications:

• Educated to GCSE Level or equivalent.
• Previous years of experience in a financial environment.
• Experience of financial accounting software, such as PS Financials.
• Understanding of accounting processes and procedures.
• Ability to work effectively as part of a team and independently.
• High level of accuracy and attention to detail.
• Ability to communicate effectively, both verbally and in writing.
• Committed to personal and professional development.
• Awareness of, and commitment to, equalities issues.

Safeguarding:

This role requires a commitment to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. An enhanced DBS check is required, and you must adhere to the Trust’s safeguarding policies and procedures.

The duties outlined are comprehensive but not exhaustive, and the post-holder may be required to undertake other appropriate duties within the context of the job, skills, and grade.