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Location: West Midlands (On-site with some flexibility) Contract: Interim (6–9 months, potential extension) Start Date: ASAP About the Role We are seeking an experienced Interim Finance Director (FD) to join a leading private independent school in the West Midlands. This is a pivotal leadership role, providing immediate financial oversight, strategic guidance, and operational stability during a period of transition. The successful candidate will work closely with the Headteacher, Governors, and Senior Leadership Team (SLT) to ensure robust financial management, regulatory compliance, and support for long-term strategic planning. Key Responsibilities • Strategic Finance & Leadership • Lead the school’s financial strategy, ensuring sustainability and long-term planning. • Advise Governors and the SLT on financial performance, risk, and opportunities. • Support and challenge decision-making with clear, evidence-based financial insight. • Financial Management & Reporting • Oversee preparation of annual budgets, forecasts, and management accounts. • Deliver accurate monthly financial reporting and analysis to the Board of Governors. • Ensure compliance with accounting standards, Charity Commission requirements, and relevant education sector regulations. • Manage financial risk, including oversight of investments, reserves, and cash flow. • Operational Oversight • Lead and develop the Finance Team to ensure strong day-to-day financial operations. • Oversee payroll, fee collection, and supplier payments to maintain financial efficiency. • Review and improve financial processes, systems, and controls. • Governance & Compliance • Act as the principal financial adviser to the Board of Governors and relevant committees. • Ensure compliance with audit requirements and oversee external audit processes. • Provide guidance on statutory and regulatory reporting. • Support the school’s compliance with safeguarding, risk management, and data protection policies from a financial perspective. • Stakeholder Engagement • Build strong relationships with parents, governors, auditors, banks, and regulators. • Support development initiatives, capital projects, and long-term investment planning. Person Specification Essential • Qualified accountant (ACA, ACCA, CIMA or equivalent). • Significant experience as a Finance Director or equivalent senior finance role. • Strong understanding of financial governance in the charity, not-for-profit, or education sector. • Proven ability to lead through transition, providing clarity and stability. • Excellent communication and influencing skills, with the ability to engage both financial and non-financial stakeholders. • Commercially astute, with experience managing budgets, cash flow, and reserves. Desirable • Previous experience in the independent schools or wider education sector. • Familiarity with charity accounting (SORP) and regulatory frameworks. • Experience in estates, capital projects, or fundraising initiatives. Contract & Remuneration • Interim role, expected duration 6–9 months (with potential extension). • Competitive daily rate, commensurate with experience. • Based in the West Midlands – primarily on-site, with some flexibility for remote working. Competitive Salary