Interim Chief Financial Officer (CFO) - Multi Academy Trust Interim Assignment | 3-6 Months | West Yorkshire | Competitive Day Rate
A growing Multi Academy Trust is seeking an experienced Interim Chief Financial Officer (CFO) to provide leadership and continuity whilst they recruit a permanent CFO. The Trust need an experienced CFO who can maintain financial stability, support strategic decision-making, and help shape the future finance structure whilst a permanent appointment process is undertaken.
The role:
Reporting to the CEO, the Interim CFO will provide both strategic and operational leadership, ensuring robust financial management and supporting organisational development initiatives.
Key responsibilities will include:
Leading the finance function during the transition period
Producing and reviewing monthly management accounts and financial reporting
Ensuring strong financial controls, governance, and compliance across the Trust
Supporting budget setting, forecasting, cash flow management, and statutory reporting requirements
Acting as a trusted adviser to the CEO, Board, and Trust leadership team
Providing leadership to the wider finance team and contributing to organisational restructuring discussions
Supporting the review of the current school business management model
Assessing the future finance operating model, including consideration of a Finance Manager position to strengthen day-to-day operational delivery. Overseeing estates-related responsibilities currently aligned to the CFO remit
Candidate Requirements We are interested in speaking with experienced CFOs, Finance Directors, and senior MAT finance leaders who can quickly add value in a complex education environment.
You will ideally have: significant senior finance leadership experience within a Multi-Academy Trust, strong technical finance expertise and an understanding of academy trust financial management and governance.
Experience leading organisational change and finance transformation projects A hands-on approach, with the ability to operate strategically whilst also supporting day-to-day finance operations when required
A recognised professional accountancy qualification (ACA, ACCA, CIMA, CIPFA or equivalent)
Assignment Details Duration: 3-6 months Start Date: September 2026
Location: West Yorkshire (hybrid working available)
Rate: Competitive, dependent upon experience
This is an excellent opportunity for an experienced interim finance leader to make a meaningful impact within a well-established and ambitious Multi Academy Trust during a key period of change and development. This role can be considered on a full or part-time basis.
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