Financial Planning & Analysis (FP&A) Manager
Location: Hybrid - London Head Office / Remote
Contract: Full-time, Permanent
About Cognita
Cognita is a global leader in independent education. Founded in 2004, we are a growing community of 100+ schools in 17 countries - in Europe, North America, Latin America, Asia and the Middle East - serving more than 85,000 students. Each of our schools are proudly unique, however our collective purpose is to create an environment where everyone can, 'Thrive in a rapidly evolving world'.
About the role
Are you a proactive, strategic thinker with a passion for driving growth through financial insight and collaboration?
Cognita Schools, a global leader in education with over 100 schools across 20 countries, is looking for a talented FP&A Manager to join our Group Finance team. This is a unique opportunity to join a dynamic, fast-paced and highly acquisitive business where you'll have real impact and visibility.
As the FP&A Manager, you will play a key role in shaping the financial performance of Cognita. You'll be the go-to expert for our regional finance teams and CFOs, responsible for delivering insightful financial reporting, driving efficiencies, and supporting strategic decision-making. You'll lead month-end reporting processes, provide actionable analysis of income statements, support budgeting and long-term planning, and contribute to optimising existing processes across regions.
We are streamlining our ways of working, so experience in change management and continuous improvement is vital. You'll also play a critical role in building strong partnerships with stakeholders across the globe, helping them understand the "why" behind the numbers and supporting performance improvement.
Financial Planning & Analysis (FP&A) Manager
Location: Hybrid - London Head Office / Remote
Contract: Full-time, Permanent
About Cognita
Cognita is a global leader in independent education. Founded in 2004, we are a growing community of 100+ schools in 17 countries - in Europe, North America, Latin America, Asia and the Middle East - serving more than 85,000 students. Each of our schools are proudly unique, however our collective purpose is to create an environment where everyone can, 'Thrive in a rapidly evolving world'.
About the role
Are you a proactive, strategic thinker with a passion for driving growth through financial insight and collaboration?
Cognita Schools, a global leader in education with over 100 schools across 20 countries, is looking for a talented FP&A Manager to join our Group Finance team. This is a unique opportunity to join a dynamic, fast-paced and highly acquisitive business where you'll have real impact and visibility.
As the FP&A Manager, you will play a key role in shaping the financial performance of Cognita. You'll be the go-to expert for our regional finance teams and CFOs, responsible for delivering insightful financial reporting, driving efficiencies, and supporting strategic decision-making. You'll lead month-end reporting processes, provide actionable analysis of income statements, support budgeting and long-term planning, and contribute to optimising existing processes across regions.
We are streamlining our ways of working, so experience in change management and continuous improvement is vital. You'll also play a critical role in building strong partnerships with stakeholders across the globe, helping them understand the "why" behind the numbers and supporting performance improvement.
JOB.DESCRIPTION to view the full job description click here
Who we are looking for:
* At least 5 years' experience in a Financial Planning & Analysis Manager role
* Professional accounting qualification (CIMA/ACCA/ACA or equivalent)
* Strong financial acumen with experience across budgeting, forecasting, reporting, and variance analysis
* Excellent Excel and analytical skills; able to translate complex data into clear insights
* Commercial mindset with a proactive, hands-on approach to improving processes
* Proven experience influencing senior stakeholders across regions and functions
* Exposure to multi-currency, multi-regional environments (international experience desirable)
* Experience supporting business transformation or change initiatives
Benefits at Cognita:
* Competitive salary depending upon qualifications and experience
* Aviva Pension
* Excellent Holiday Allowance and public holidays
* School fee discount
* Exclusive third-party discounts
* Professional Development
How to Apply
Complete this application before the closing date. The Closing Date for Applications is: 13/07/2025
Early applications are encouraged, we reserve the right to interview and appoint prior to closing date for the right applicant.
First stage interviews will take place on 24th and 25th of July, 2nd stage interviews will be held on 11th and 12th of August.
Cognita Schools are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff, volunteers and other third parties to share this commitment. Safer recruitment practice and pre-employment background checks will be undertaken before any appointment is confirmed.
We are an equal opportunities employer committed to diversity and treating all employees with dignity and respect regardless of background.
Early applications are encouraged, we reserve the right to interview and appoint prior to closing date for the right applicant.
to view the full job description click here
Who we are looking for:
* At least 5 years' experience in a Financial Planning & Analysis Manager role
* Professional accounting qualification (CIMA/ACCA/ACA or equivalent)
* Strong financial acumen with experience across budgeting, forecasting, reporting, and variance analysis
* Excellent Excel and analytical skills; able to translate complex data into clear insights
* Commercial mindset with a proactive, hands-on approach to improving processes
* Proven experience influencing senior stakeholders across regions and functions
* Exposure to multi-currency, multi-regional environments (international experience desirable)
* Experience supporting business transformation or change initiatives
Benefits at Cognita:
* Competitive salary depending upon qualifications and experience
* Aviva Pension
* Excellent Holiday Allowance and public holidays
* School fee discount
* Exclusive third-party discounts
* Professional Development
How to Apply
Complete this application before the closing date. The Closing Date for Applications is: 13/07/2025
Early applications are encouraged, we reserve the right to interview and appoint prior to closing date for the right applicant.
First stage interviews will take place on 24th and 25th of July, 2nd stage interviews will be held on 11th and 12th of August.
Cognita Schools are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff, volunteers and other third parties to share this commitment. Safer recruitment practice and pre-employment background checks will be undertaken before any appointment is confirmed.
We are an equal opportunities employer committed to diversity and treating all employees with dignity and respect regardless of background.
Early applications are encouraged, we reserve the right to interview and appoint prior to closing date for the right applicant.
