Finance Manager - Independent Secondary School -...

Finance Manager – Independent Secondary School – Newcastle upon Tyne

Start Date: As soon as possible
Contract: Full-time, Permanent
Salary: Paid to scale

School information:
This is a well-established 11–18 Independent Secondary School in Newcastle upon Tyne , widely recognised for its strong academic standards, excellent enrichment offer and community-focused ethos. The school values operational excellence as much as educational achievement, ensuring that every department—from teaching to finance—works efficiently, collaboratively and strategically.

The finance department is highly organised, well-resourced and central to the school’s long-term sustainability. Their Finance Manager plays a key leadership role in ensuring that budgets are managed responsibly, resources are allocated effectively, and financial strategies align with the school’s priorities. The school operates with transparency, integrity and a commitment to delivering the highest value for students and families.

About the Role:
The school is seeking a meticulous, professional and experienced Finance Manager to oversee the full financial operations of the school. You will work closely with senior leadership and the governing body to manage budgets, reporting, forecasting, payroll coordination and financial compliance. This role requires someone who is highly numerate, extremely organised and confident in managing complex financial systems.

This is a strategic and operational role where your decisions will directly impact school improvement, resource planning and long-term financial health. You will be trusted to maintain accurate records, prepare financial statements, manage audits, coordinate procurement and oversee financial procedures.

Key Responsibilities:
• Oversee the school’s financial management systems and ensure accurate record keeping.
• Prepare management accounts, financial statements, forecasts and budget reports.
• Support SLT and governors with financial planning, cost analysis and risk assessment.
• Manage invoicing, procurement, payroll coordination, income streams and expenditure tracking.
• Monitor budget performance, identifying variances and advising leaders accordingly.
• Lead on financial compliance, audit preparation, reporting and statutory submissions.
• Ensure financial controls, policies and procedures are fully up to date and robust.
• Develop strong supplier relationships and negotiate contracts where appropriate.
• Process fees, income reconciliations, funding allocations and payment schedules.
• Manage financial software systems and liaise with external accountants where needed.
• Support HR, operations and administrative teams with financial queries and procedures.
• Promote a culture of accountability, transparency and fiscal responsibility across the school.

Requirements:
• Finance management experience (preferably in a school or charity sector).
• Excellent financial literacy, analytical skills and attention to detail.
• Strong experience using finance software and Excel.
• Ability to communicate complex financial information clearly to non-financial staff.
• Knowledge of payroll, procurement and auditing processes.
• Strategic thinker with the ability to work independently and meet deadlines.
• Professional, discreet and reliable.

Application
To apply, please send your CV as soon as possible.