Finance Manager – Independent School

About the role

We are seeking an experienced and proactive Finance Manager to lead the day‑to‑day financial operations of a thriving independent school. Working closely with the Bursar, you will ensure accurate reporting, robust controls and support the strategic management of the school’s finances.

Key responsibilities

• Manage the termly school fees billing cycle, invoicing for lettings and clubs, and ensure VAT compliance.
• Process supplier invoices, staff expenses and purchase card spend, handling approvals and payments.
• Lead month‑end reporting, ledger management, accruals, pre‑payments and monthly variance analysis.
• Prepare quarterly VAT returns, annual corporation tax nil returns and maintain tax invoice compliance.
• Issue annual budgets, upload them to the finance system and manage funding claims with Surrey County Council.
• Maintain the Fixed Asset Register, compile audit documentation and support external audit processes.

Required profile

• Recognised accounting or finance qualification (or part‑qualified).
• Excellent Excel skills and strong organisational abilities.
• Experience in the independent education sector is advantageous.
• Knowledge of AccountsIQ is beneficial but not essential.

Required skills

• Excel
• AccountsIQ
• VAT compliance
• Financial reporting
• Budgeting