Salary : Band SL2 – 1-4 (£67,371) – (£74,048) – (Potential to increase this range based on high performance and growth)
Hours: Full Time, permanent
Accountable to: CEO
Location: Trust Central Office
Closing date: Thursday 13 February at 10am
Interviews will take place: Friday 28 February 2025
Start date: 22 April 2025 (exact date flexible via mutual arrangement)
We reserve the right to close the application date early, if we receive sufficient applications for the role.
Applications are welcomed from candidates looking for a part time role.
We are seeking an exceptional financial professional to join Together Learning Trust as our Chief Financial Officer (CFO). This pivotal role arises due to the retirement of our current CFO, and we are excited to welcome a leader who will contribute to shaping the next chapter of our thriving Trust.
Together Learning Trust is a high-performing, highly regarded organisation, securely placed in the top 10% of most improved Trusts nationally. We proudly lead nine schools—three secondary, five primary, and one special school—serving over 5,700 young people and employing more than 750 staff across Calderdale and Kirklees.
This is a phenomenal opportunity to work alongside a dedicated, talented, friendly and committed leadership team. By bringing a credible and inspiring presence, you will be instrumental in our ambitious growth strategy, ensuring financial excellence and driving positive outcomes for our schools and communities.
What We Are Looking For:
Having a proven track record of financial leadership, a deep understanding of Multi academy Trust (MAT) finance and a vision for driving continuous improvement is essential. The CFO will work closely with the CEO, Executive Headteacher, Executive Director of Education, Director of Business and Operations, Director of People, and ICT Director. Key responsibilities include:
* Building High-Performing Teams : Lead, inspire and guide our central finance team and collaborate with business staff to ensure they deliver exceptional service.
* Strategic Leadership : Shape and enhance the Trust’s financial structures, operating processes, and long-term financial strategy as we expand.
* Driving Excellence : Oversee the financial and business aspects of the Trust, ensuring operational efficiency and the most cost-effective procedures and systems.
* Developing Efficient Systems : Streamline and optimise financial operations and champion innovative processes that reduce unnecessary workload for staff.
* Inspiring Confidence : Establish credibility and the trust of stakeholders by delivering consistent, high-quality operational support and strategic advice.
* Building Networks : Forge strong relationships with other finance and business leaders to share best practices and seek opportunities for collaboration, innovation and improvement.
* Delivering Exceptional Service : Set the highest standards for yourself and your team, driving exceptional performance that reflects our commitment to excellence.
About the Role
As CFO, you will oversee the financial health of the Trust, ensuring compliance with regulatory frameworks, including the Academy Trust Handbook. You will:
* Lead and manage the finance team.
* Provide expert advice to the CEO and Senior Leaders and Board of Trustees.
* Play a critical role in the Trust’s strategic development.
* Work under pressure to deliver results, demonstrating resilience, exceptional leadership, and the ability to manage competing priorities effectively.
You will need outstanding financial acumen and the capability to navigate complex challenges while upholding the Trust’s vision and values. Your leadership will be central to creating systems that empower our schools to deliver exceptional education and outcomes.
You will be based at our vibrant Head Office at The Brooksbank School, working closely with the Executive Leadership Team, Trust Central Team, and school business staff. We use Access Finance for financial and budget management and introduced iTrent in February 2024 for payroll, pensions, HR, and staff recruitment.
WORKING TOGETHER
Benefits for you and your development?
We offer:
* A tailored induction, ongoing development, and comprehensive support to help you thrive in the role.
* The chance to work with an ambitious, dynamic team committed to transforming lives through education support.
* A range of benefits to support your financial, professional, and personal wellbeing, with options that extend to your family.
* Unparalleled opportunities for personal and professional growth as you develop your expertise alongside the role.
At Together Learning Trust, you’ll be part of a team united by a shared vision and the drive to create brighter futures for young people in our region.
Ready to Make a Difference?
If this sounds like the opportunity for you, we’d love to hear from you. Please complete the enquiry form on our microsite to arrange an initial conversation with me and explore how we can work together to achieve great things.
DAVID LORD, CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER