Deputy Chief Finance Officer

Company Description Achieve & Learn Trust is committed to improving outcomes for learners through high-quality teaching, support, and leadership. The Trust works collaboratively across its schools to ensure strong financial stewardship, effective governance and sustainable growth. It aims to create inclusive, safe, well-resourced and aspirational environments where students and staff can thrive. Joining Achieve & Learn Trust offers the opportunity to contribute to a trust that is proud of its achievements, proud of its students and staff and led by its moral purpose.

Role Description The Deputy Chief Finance Officer is a full-time role responsible for supporting the strategic and operational management of the Trust’s finances. Based in Altrincham in a hybrid capacity, the role combines on-site work with some flexibility to work from home. Day-to-day responsibilities include overseeing financial reporting processes, supporting the preparation and review of financial statements, and coordinating budgeting and forecasting across the Trust. The role will help monitor financial performance, analyse variances plus providing insight to senior leaders and trustees to inform decision-making. The Deputy Chief Finance Officer will also contribute to financial compliance, support internal controls, assist with audits and promote efficient financial processes that align with regulatory and sector requirements.

Qualifications

• Strong finance and financial reporting skills, with experience in multi-entity or education sector environments.
• Proficiency in preparing and reviewing financial statements and ensuring accuracy and compliance.
• Advanced analytical skills to interpret financial data, analyse trends and support evidence-based decisions.
• Demonstrated experience in budgeting, forecasting, monitoring financial performance and the willingness to look into best practice elsewhere.
• Professional accounting qualification (e.g. AAT, ACA, ACCA, CIMA) plus experience.
• Knowledge of relevant financial regulations, funding frameworks and best practices in the public or education sector.
• Excellent communication skills, with the ability to present complex financial information clearly to non-finance stakeholders.
• Willingness to network, develop prifessiinally and attend training and other events.
• Strong organisational skills, attention to detail, and the ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines.
• Competence with financial systems and Excel, and openness to improving systems and processes.
• Commitment to the values and educational mission of Achieve & Learn Trust, including inclusivity and ethical financial management.