Are you an SBM or a School Finance Manager or ready for your first C-level role? Looking for a small MAT with ambitious yet strategic growth plans? Keen to learn and grow in a MAT that values self-development and wellbeing? Is it time for you to step up and make your mark? If so, this might be the role you're looking for… I am working with a Lancashire based MAT to find them a Permanent CFOO. As CFOO, you'll provide strategic leadership across finance, operations, and sustainability. Working closely with the CEO, school leaders, and Trustees, you'll drive strategic planning, resource allocation, and risk management to secure the long-term success alongside a strategic growth plan. This role would suit a qualified accountant with an understanding of the education sector, ambition and a love of self-development. Important Details: Salary: £73k to £80k Permanent position working all year round. Key Duties of the CFOO: Lead finance operations across the Trust, ensuring compliance with the Academy Trust Handbook, funding agreements, and statutory regulations. Plan for growth by modelling financial scenarios and producing clear business plans, forecasts, and reports. Manage all financial activity including budgets, reserves, assets, and risks, with strong policies in place to prevent fraud and ensure compliance. Advise on strategic risks and maintain the Trust's risk register. Report to Trustees with accurate forecasts and clear updates on the Trust's financial health. Work closely with school and Trust leaders to align financial strategy with school improvement and people development. Lead the central finance team, set up effective systems, train staff, and ensure schools comply with financial requirements while allowing for appropriate autonomy. Oversee finances for capital projects, procurement policies, and major contracts to ensure value and compliance with regulations. Manage payroll operations, ensuring accuracy, timeliness, and monthly reconciliation. Lead financial due diligence for Trust expansion, advising on risks. Support the Finance Committee with budgeting, statutory accounts, audits, and insurance matters. The CFOO Must Have/Be: Degree educated and a fully qualified accountant (ACA, ACCA, CIMA or CIPFA). Confident using finance systems, especially Microsoft Excel. Flexible with working hours and open to evolving responsibilities. Able to present financial data clearly to all levels, from staff to the Board. Skilled in budget monitoring and spotting data issues. Confident advising senior leaders and the Trust Board on finance strategy. Experienced in financial modelling and planning for different scenarios. Knowledgeable in contracts, tenders, and procurement. Able to lead and develop a team, manage performance and recruitment. Great team player who can meet deadlines and work well with others. Experienced in risk review, due diligence, and working with auditors and lawyers. Strong communication skills - professional, clear, and approachable. Good at analysing data, solving problems, and recommending actions. Are you the CFOO we're searching for? Let's talk Just send your CV via this ad or call Kellie Gordon in the Appoint-Ed office.