AtkinsClarke
Interim Chief Financial Officer
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Interim Chief Financial Officer
Hybrid Working | West Midlands | Multi-Academy Trust 3-6 Month Contract | Up to £500 Per Day (Inside IR35)
Overview
AtkinsClarke are supporting a large and established Multi-Academy Trust with the appointment of an Interim Chief Financial Officer to provide executive financial leadership during an important period for the organisation.
Working closely with the CEO, Executive Team and Trustees, this role requires an experienced education finance professional who can quickly establish credibility, provide strategic guidance, and ensure robust financial governance across a complex education environment. This is a hands-on executive assignment requiring someone who can make an immediate impact.
Company
Our client is a respected and growing Multi-Academy Trust with responsibility for multiple schools and a strong commitment to delivering outstanding educational outcomes. The finance function sits at the heart of the organisation’s strategic decision-making, supporting operational leaders while ensuring compliance, financial sustainability, and effective governance across the Trust.
Opportunity
As Interim Chief Financial Officer, you will provide strategic financial leadership while ensuring the Trust continues to operate with strong financial control and governance. You will work across both strategic and operational priorities, supporting senior leaders while maintaining excellent financial management throughout the contract.
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Responsibilities
- Leading the Trust’s finance function
- Advising the CEO, Executive Team, and Trustees on financial strategy
- Overseeing budgeting, forecasting, and financial planning
- Producing high-quality management and statutory reporting
- Managing audit processes and regulatory compliance
- Supporting procurement, treasury, and cash management
- Providing financial oversight across multiple schools
- Leading and supporting the finance team
- Reviewing financial controls, processes, and governance
- Supporting ongoing strategic projects and organisational priorities
This role requires someone capable of quickly assessing priorities and delivering immediate value.
Person Specification
We are looking for an experienced interim finance executive with a proven background within the education sector. You will ideally have:
- Qualified Accountant status (ACA, ACCA, CIMA, or equivalent)
- Previous experience as CFO, Director of Finance, or equivalent within education
- Essential experience working within a Multi-Academy Trust or similar education organisation
- Strong understanding of academy funding, compliance, and governance
- Experience working with Boards and Trustees
- Excellent leadership and stakeholder management skills
- The ability to quickly build relationships and hit the ground running
- Strong technical and strategic finance capability
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Offer
This is an interview opportunity to join a highly respected education organisation in a highly visible executive leadership role.
- Up to £500 per day (Inside IR35)
- Hybrid working
- 3-6 month contract
- Immediate start available
- Executive-level exposure
- Opportunity to make an immediate strategic impact
Next Steps
To apply for this position, please submit your CV directly to the responsible recruiter via the apply now button. We will respond to successful applicants within 7 days—however, feel free to contact us for any further questions regarding your application.
Inclusivity Note: AtkinsClarke embraces inclusivity and welcomes applicants of all backgrounds, experiences, and abilities. By applying, you will be registered as a candidate with AtkinsClarke Ltd. Our [Privacy Policy](requested upon enquiry) details how your data will be used.
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