Chief Financial Officer / Chief Operating Officer Full Time

This is an exciting opportunity for an experienced and inspirational education business professional to act as our Chief Finance and Operations Officer, with responsibility for the non-teaching business and financial operations of the Trust and for ensuring compliance with all relevant regulations and statutory requirements.

We are looking to build on existing financial systems, driving best practice through a range of areas including strategic financial management, procurement, contract negotiations, and tendering. Taking overall responsibility for the financial leadership and management of the Trust to ensure financial sustainability as we endeavour to grow the Trust.

The Chief Finance and Operations Officer is responsible for the non-teaching business and financial operations of the Trust and for ensuring compliance with all relevant regulations and statutory requirements.

They will lead and manage the Trust’s business functions including Finance, HR, IT and Estates & Compliance, and by supporting commercial decision-making will enable the Trust to work effectively towards the delivery of its vision, aims and agreed strategic direction.

About you

An experienced finance or accounting professional with outstanding leadership skills and a track record of success at senior level, you should bring an enterprising approach to business development, strategy and partnerships to help us achieve our strategic objectives, effectively leading the Trust’s finances and contribute to the strategic direction and future of our Trust. The CFOO will have a key role to play in the Leadership Team, contributing to Trust-level decision making and strategies for future growth and development.

The successful candidate will be able to demonstrate that they have:

• Financial expertise to help us navigate the current challenges being faced by the education sector.
• A passion for working in the education sector and commitment to our mission and vision.
• The ability to think strategically as well as have a good understanding of the wider context beyond education.
• The ability to inspire confidence and think creatively.
• A commitment to lead through others and empower teams.
• The ability to problem-solve with good organisation and prioritisation skills.
• A commitment to always place our children at the centre of decision making.

How to apply

We believe in investing and supporting our staff to be the best that they can be, as well as giving people ownership of their responsibilities and the autonomy to be proactive. This is a role in which you will get the opportunity to thrive.

We welcome applications from people within and beyond the education sector. If you would like to find out more about Stephenson Multi Academy Trust and the role, please contact Loraine Potter on 01744 677205 to arrange a visit.

If you feel this is the role for you, please see the full job description and employee specification in the Applicant Information pack and by visiting our website.

Please return completed application forms to the school by email.

Key dates

Closing date for applications is Friday 15 March 2024 at 09:00.
Interviews will take place on Thursday 21 March 2024.

Rainhill High School and Sixth Form is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people as well as promoting equality of opportunity and community cohesion where the diversity of different backgrounds and circumstances is appreciated and positively valued and expects all staff, volunteers and other workers to share in this commitment. This post is subject to an Enhanced Disclosing & Barring Certificate and online searches as part of our Safer Recruitment & Selection Procedures.