CFO

Job Description

CFO | Cheshire - Leading Independent School | up £120,000 per annum

Find out more about this role by reading the information below, then apply to be considered.

I’m currently retained by a leading independent school in Cheshire to appoint a Chief Financial Officer who will provide strategic and operational leadership across the organisation.

Reporting to the Head and working closely with Governors, the CFO will lead financial strategy, operational performance and commercial development, ensuring the School’s long-term sustainability and continued success.

Responsibilities:

Strategic Leadership

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• Support the development and delivery of the School’s strategic plan, with a focus on financial sustainability and operational excellence.

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Provide strategic financial planning, forecasting and analysis to support informed decision-making.

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Contribute to organisational development, infrastructure planning and commercial growth initiatives.

Financial Leadership

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• Lead all aspects of financial management, including budgeting, forecasting, reporting, audit and risk management.

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Advise on fee strategy, procurement, investments and resource allocation.

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Maintain strong financial controls, cash-flow management and relationships with external advisers.

Governance & Compliance

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• Support effective governance and ensure compliance with relevant legal, regulatory and safeguarding requirements.

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Oversee policy review processes, risk management and inspection readiness.

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Advise senior leaders and Governors on governance and compliance matters.

Estates & Operations

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• Lead the strategic management of the School estate, including maintenance, sustainability initiatives and capital projects.

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Oversee operational support services including facilities, catering, transport, security and administration.

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Drive continuous improvement across systems, processes and service delivery.

Commercial & External Relations

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• Develop commercial opportunities and maximise income generation from School facilities and activities.

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Support fundraising and philanthropic initiatives alongside development and alumni teams.

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Represent the School with external partners, professional networks and community stakeholders.

People & Culture

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• Promote an inclusive, high-performing culture across operational functions.

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Support organisational development, workforce planning and staff wellbeing initiatives.

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Ensure effective safeguarding and safer recruitment practices are maintained.

Digital & Risk Management

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• Support the development of a forward-looking digital and IT strategy.

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Oversee cyber security, business continuity and data protection arrangements.

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Ensure operational and financial systems effectively support the School’s strategic priorities.

About You:

Qualifications & Experience

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• Degree educated, with a relevant professional qualification desirable.

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Significant senior leadership experience within a complex organisation.

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Strong financial and commercial acumen, with experience in strategic planning, budgeting and operational leadership.

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Experience working with Boards, Governors or equivalent governance structures.

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Proven ability to lead organisational change and multi-disciplinary teams.

Skills & Attributes

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• Strategic, commercially minded and solutions-focused.

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Excellent communication and stakeholder-management skills.

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High levels of integrity, resilience and sound judgement.

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Collaborative leadership style with strong organisational and analytical capability. xwzovoh

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Commitment to safeguarding, inclusion and staff wellbeing.

What's on Offer:

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• £100,000-£120,000 

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Heavily discounted school fees

Next steps:

To register your interest for this CFO role and for a confidential discussion, please submit your CV via the apply button below