Interim Chief Financial Officer
An outstanding opportunity for an Interim Chief Financial Officer to join the executive leadership team of a large multi-academy trust at a defining moment in its development, providing steady, expert leadership through a period of significant organisational change.
About the Role
This is an interim appointment to lead the finance function through a critical period of transition, providing steady, expert leadership while longer-term arrangements are confirmed.
As Interim CFO you will carry the ultimate responsibility for the finance function, supporting the CEO (as Accounting Officer) and working closely with the Board of Directors, school leaders and central teams. For the right candidate there is also opportunity to oversee other teams such as IT, Procurement and Estates.
Key responsibilities include:
Developing and implementing strategic financial planning, scenario-modelling and long-term sustainability frameworks. Providing Board-level financial advisory, risk management, and oversight of reserves, investments and banking relationships. Ensuring rigorous regulatory compliance — including the Academies Trust Handbook — and transparent financial reporting across all schools. Leading, developing and inspiring the finance team, driving excellence, accountability and innovation in a distributed multi-site environment. Overseeing capital projects, growth planning and procurement strategies that deliver value for money and support school improvement.
What We're Looking For
A CCAB-qualified accountant (ACA, ACCA, CIPFA, CIMA) with extensive senior finance leadership experience in a complex, multi-site organisation, ideally with prior interim or transformation experience. Proven expertise in financial governance, strategy, regulatory compliance and large-scale operations at senior level. A strategic and analytical thinker who translates financial data into actionable insight, balancing ambition with prudence. Inspiring leadership skills — you will build, develop and lead a high-performing finance function across many schools and stakeholders, and be able to step in and add value quickly. A person of strong character and integrity, committed to equality, diversity and inclusion. Executive-level communication skills, comfortable presenting to and engaging with the Board, CEO and multiple stakeholders.
Why This Role Matters
Significant scale and impact: lead finance operations managing resources that directly influence thousands of young lives. A pivotal moment: guide the organisation through a critical period of change and hand over a stable, well-governed platform to your successor.
Safeguarding & Equal Opportunities
The organisation is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. All appointments are subject to an enhanced DBS check, satisfactory references and pre-employment clearance
We welcome applications from candidates of all backgrounds who share our ambition and values.
Next Steps
If you are a visionary finance leader eager to provide steady, expert leadership through a period of significant change, committed to educational excellence, and ready to make a meaningful difference, we'd like to hear from you. Please submit your CV, and should your application be of interest we will be in touch.
