Senior Finance Business Partner – Schools

About the role

I am recruiting an experienced Finance Business Partner to support schools within a Local Authority, providing expert financial advice, analysis and challenge to Headteachers, school leadership teams and governors.

Key responsibilities

• Monitor and analyse school budgets, forecasts and financial performance.
• Identify budget variances, financial risks and emerging pressures.
• Lead and support financial recovery plans for schools experiencing deficits or structural overspending.
• Advise Headteachers, leadership teams and governors on financial management and Local Authority financial regulations.
• Provide clear financial information and constructive challenge to support effective decision‑making.
• Strengthen financial controls, governance and budget management processes.
• Support schools in developing sustainable medium‑term financial plans.
• Monitor agreed recovery actions and escalate significant financial risks where required.

Required profile

• Strong experience in Finance Business Partnering, management accounting or a similar finance role.
• Experience within schools and/or Local Authority finance.
• Proven budget monitoring, forecasting and financial analysis experience.
• Experience managing or supporting financial recovery and deficit reduction.
• Strong stakeholder management skills, particularly with senior non‑finance colleagues.
• Ability to explain complex financial information clearly and provide constructive challenge.
• Strong understanding of financial governance and regulatory requirements.