Your Role
Be part of something that transforms futures.
At L.E.A.D. Academy Trust, our mission is simple: to Lead, Empower, Achieve and Drive. These principles shape everything we do and as our new Regional Finance Business Partner (Secondary), you will play a central role in supporting the financial excellence that helps our academies thrive.
Why join us?
This is not just another finance role. It is a strategic, influential position where you will shape financial planning across multiple secondary academies – currently Noel-Baker Academy and The Birley Academy, with scope to grow as our Trust develops.
You will be the trusted expert that Headteachers and senior leaders turn to, bringing clarity, insight and confidence to complex financial decisions while ensuring our values shine through in everything you do.
What you’ll be doing
- Lead the 3‑year budget planning process and drive financial sustainability across the secondary portfolio.
- Act as the go‑to specialist for all financial matters within your academies, providing high‑quality advice, challenge, and guidance.
- Oversee the production of accurate monthly and annual accounts, financial reports, VAT returns, cash‑flow statements, and reconciliations.
- Provide powerful financial insight to inform strategic decisions and support Headteachers in delivering their academy visions.
- Lead quarterly re‑forecasts, monitor variances, and recommend proactive actions to keep each academy on track.
- Build strong, professional relationships with school leaders, auditors, external providers, and internal stakeholders.
- Coach, mentor and develop finance colleagues across the region – helping build a high‑performing finance community.
What we’re looking for
- Part‑qualified accountant status or equivalent relevant experience
- Strong technical knowledge of financial planning, reporting and analysis
- A collaborative mindset – confidence to challenge and influence when needed
- Excellent communication skills and the ability to work with diverse stakeholders
- Experience in educational or academy finances (desirable but not essential)
- A self‑starter attitude and the ability to work to tight deadlines with autonomy
- Commitment to our Trust values and to building a positive, inclusive culture
What we offer
- A role with genuine influence and senior visibility
- Hybrid working arrangements for improved work‑life balance – at least 1 day per week working from home
- Opportunities for continuous professional development
- A supportive, values‑driven team and leadership culture
- The chance to make an impact across multiple academies, shaping the financial future of our Trust
Qualifications
- Professional full or part accountancy qualification or willingness to work towards (essential)
- GCSE Maths and English grade 4‑9 (A‑C) or equivalent (essential)
Safeguarding Information
L.E.A.D Academy Trust is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of young people and vulnerable adults, and all appointments are subject to enhanced Disclosure & Barring Service (DBS) checks and satisfactory references.
L.E.A.D Academy Trust is also committed to promoting equality, challenging discrimination and developing community cohesion. We welcome applications from all sections of the community.
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