Finance Manager Warrington, Cheshire 37 hours per week, permanent £33,336 to £37,035 (TCAT Grade 7 – NJC SCP 23 to 27) The Challenge Academy Trust (TCAT) is a multi-academy trust made up of 6 primary schools, 7 secondary schools and a 16-19 sixth form college, with over 11,000 students, 1,300 employees and revenue in excess of £90 million. Recognised by the Department for Education as a ‘strong’ trust, we are proud of the current financial and educational health of the trust. All of our academies are rated ‘Good’ or better by Ofsted and we are a trust that is financially secure and fully compliant, with a record of clean audits, positive ESFA reviews and a healthy surplus linked to a strong investment strategy. Our team of Finance Managers play a vital role in supporting our academies through the effective and efficient management of financial resources and the production of timely, accurate monthly management reports. You will manage the operational finance processes of a small group of our academies, supporting the work of academy-based colleagues. Reporting to the Trust Management Accountant & Chief Finance Officer, you will also work closely with academy Heads/Principals in relation to academy finance matters. We are a forward thinking, vibrant and rapidly growing trust and our people are key to our continued growth and success. This is an exciting time to join our trust Key Responsibilities: Provide management with monthly reports on up-to-date financial positions. Forecast expenditure accurately enabling management decisions to be made based on accurate and timely information. Support in the annual preparation of the academy budget and any budget re-forecasts carried out throughout the year Functional operation of academy accounts including budget monitoring. Ensure that all work is completed to agreed deadlines, in order to meet statutory reporting schedules. Monitoring and maintaining the academy’s cash flow position, ensuring a positive cash position, and administering payment runs. Support with monthly staff payroll administration, investigating and reconciling payroll reports prior to payment. Qualifications, Experience & Skills: Formal accountancy qualification (ACA, ACCA, CIPFA, CIMA, AAT) or qualified through experience. Experience in the operation of accounting processes, sales order and invoice processing, month and year end closure procedures. Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to build effective relationships with a wide range of stakeholders. Why Join Us? Be part of a forward-thinking and ambitious Trust with a strong commitment to educational and operational excellence. Opportunity to shape the financial future of a growing organisation. Collaborative and supportive working environment. Opportunities for professional development and career progression. To apply visit our website: Finance Manager – The Challenge Academy Trust Recruitment Timetable: The closing date for applications is noon on 07 February 2025. Terms and Benefits 1) Eligible for membership of the Local Government Pension Scheme. 2) Occupational sickness and parental leave pay schemes, 3) A minimum of 26 days annual leave (increasing to 31 days after 5 years eservice), in additional to bank holidays 4) Agile working opportunities (minimum 3 days per week on site, subject to work commitments). 5) Access to TCAT our Reward, Recognition and Wellbeing platform, including access to retailer discounts and benefits, discounted healthcare cash plan, cycle to work scheme and online resources to support physical, emotional, professional, financial and social wellbeing. 6) Access to a comprehensive CPD framework though ‘Education Connect’, our professional development arm, and online resources from the ‘National College’. The Challenge Academy Trust is committed to promoting the safeguarding and welfare of children and young people and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. All appointments are made subject to an Enhanced DBS check. We are an Equal Opportunities Employer, and our employment policies, procedures and practices are regularly reviewed to ensure compliance with legislation. We are committed to creating a workplace culture that is inclusive, positive, and fair with opportunity for all. Finance Manager