Interim Head of Finance
Exciting Opportunity: Interim Head of Finance (Contract)
Panoramic Associates are working with a Multi Academy Trust who are seeking an experienced professional to join their team as an Interim Head of Finance. This pivotal role is required due to the existing Head of Finance leaving and will require an immediate start. Hybrid working pattern available.
Role Overview
This role is critical in ensuring strong financial stewardship, high‑quality reporting, and effective oversight of the Finance Business Partners. You will play a central role in preparing the Trust for upcoming audits, strengthening internal controls, and ensuring all statutory and regulatory deliverables are met to the highest standard.
Key Responsibilities
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Finance leadership – Provide day‑to‑day leadership to the Finance Business Partnering team, ensuring consistent, high‑quality financial support to schools and central teams.
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Audit readiness – Lead preparation for internal and external audits, ensuring compliance with ESFA, Academy Trust Handbook, and statutory reporting requirements.Financial planning — Oversee budgeting, forecasting, and medium‑term financial planning across the Trust.
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Process improvement – Strengthen financial systems, controls, and reporting processes to improve efficiency and accuracy.
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Stakeholder management – Act as a trusted advisor to senior leaders, Principals, and the Executive Team, providing clear, actionable financial insight.
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Deliverables oversight – Ensure timely completion of monthly management accounts, year‑end processes, and statutory returns.
Essential Skills & Experience
- Proven experience in a senior financial leadership role, with a track record of managing finances.
- Strong knowledge of financial planning, reporting, and risk management.
- Demonstrable ability to lead and motivate teams.
- Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills.
- A recognised accounting or finance qualification (e.g., ACA, ACCA, CIMA).
- Exceptional communication skills, with the ability to influence senior stakeholders effectively.
- Ability to adapt quickly and handle multiple priorities in a busy environment.
- PS Finacials experience
Desirable Skills & Experience
- Prior experience working in Multi Academy Trusts
- Experience with financial systems and software tools (IMP, IRIS)
If you are a finance professional keen to drive excellence and want to make a tangible impact in a reputable Trust, we would be keen to hear from you. Please submit your CV for consideration or contact us for further details about this opportunity. Interviews this week.
Panoramic Associates is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. All successful candidates will be subject to necessary recruitment checks.