Achieve Professionals are searching for an experienced Lead Finance Partner for our fantastic client in County Durham.

As a Lead Finance Partner, you will lead by example and coach the team through continuous improvement. You will be responsible for ensuring the finance function proactively supports the best interests of the schools and academies to achieve their objectives. The ideal candidate will be a qualified accountant and/or be able to demonstrate significant knowledge and experience in delivering robust financial budgets and forecasting within a complex and changing environment within the education sector.

Key responsibilities of the role:

• Lead and manage the team to consistently deliver KPIs and business results
• Coach the team to ensure that they are as efficient as possible and continue to raise the quality of service to clients
• As a Subject Matter Expert (SME), support the business with expert technical knowledge and expertise
• Provide specialist hands-on support and advice to CEOs, Headteachers, Finance Directors, Trustees/Directors and Governors in relation to a wide range of financial issues
• Aid in the development of multi-year financial planning and monitoring, cash-flow management and record of fixed assets
• To support clients with timely budget preparation, forecasting and monitoring

Requirements:

• CCAB Qualified accountant or AAT qualified with demonstrable education finance knowledge and experience
• Previous experience in a similar role
• Ability to coach & influence external partners
• Experience of producing complex budgets and year-end accounting
• Experience in preparing and presenting financial information to senior management and leadership teams
• Experience working in a dynamic, fast paced and ever-changing environment, working collaboratively and openly with others
• Ability to prioritise and work well under pressure to strict deadlines

Benefits

• 26 days annual leave + 8 days public holiday
• Generous pension package
• Flexible working arrangements
• Tailored learning and development programmes
• Inclusive and open workplace