Finance Business Partner

Working Pattern:  08:00-16:00 with 30 minute unpaid lunch break

Preferred working days are Monday to Wednesday, although there is some flexibility around the days, with Wednesday being a definite requirement.

Note: The role will be hybrid, working across Parkland Primary School and school locations, subject to business needs.

We are looking to appoint a driven and energetic Finance Business Partner who will support and enhance the Trust finance function. This role will support trust schools to maintain their financial performance to enable pupils and staff to reach their potential.

At Discovery Trust, we believe that every child deserves to belong, thrive and achieve. Behind every successful school is a strong and effective support team, and we're looking for a talented Finance Business Partner to join our Central Finance Team.

This is an exciting opportunity for an organised and detail-focused finance professional who enjoys working collaboratively, solving problems and ensuring high standards of financial accuracy and compliance.

This is a pivotal role that combines operational finance leadership with the opportunity to improve processes, develop systems and help shape how financial services are delivered across our academies and central services.

Working closely with the Director of Finance and colleagues across our schools and central services teams, you will play a key role in supporting the financial operations of the Trust and helping to ensure that resources are managed effectively for the benefit of our pupils.

• Educated to A Level or above, including a minimum of five GCSE or equivalent grade C in mathematics and English
• Finance related qualification at NVQ level 3 or equivalent (e.g. AAT)
• Experience of producing management accounts and delivering month end process reporting
• Experience of budget setting and budgetary control
• Familiarity of financial process and procedures

You will be a proactive and solutions-focused finance professional with:

• Experience in financial management and operational finance.
• Strong knowledge of financial controls, governance and compliance.
• Experience of managing and improving financial systems and processes.
• Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills.
• The ability to analyse problems, identify solutions and drive positive change.
• Experience of leading and developing others.
• A commitment to delivering excellent customer service and supporting colleagues across the organisation.

Experience within the education sector or academy trust environment would be advantageous, but most importantly, you'll bring a passion for improving financial processes and delivering a first-class finance service.

This is an exciting opportunity to join a values-led organisation where your work will have a direct impact on schools, colleagues and pupils. You'll play a key role in strengthening financial operations, driving innovation and helping ensure resources are managed effectively to support educational excellence.

Professional Growth & Support

• Ongoing professional development opportunities.
• Access to learning networks and visits to other organisations.
• Supportive leadership and a highly committed team.
• Highly committed and motivated Team.
• A role which has the opportunity to make a real difference whilst having fun.

Work-Life & Wellbeing Benefits

• Flexible working options.
• Employee Assistance Programme (EAP).
• Defined benefit pension scheme.
• Be an integral member of the team in a vibrant school.
• Create an outstanding learning environment for the success of all of our children.
• Play a significant part in continuing to develop our school.
• Be part of a wider community of Discovery Schools Trust.
• Free childcare

Additional Perks

• Free parking.
• Cycle-to-work scheme.
• Gym discounts.
• Eyecare vouchers.
• Dental support.
• Retail discounts.
• Annual incremental pay increases within the pay scale.

Equal Opportunities & Accessibility

We welcome enquiries from everyone and value diversity in our workforce.

Applications are welcome from all sections of the community regardless of gender identity, ethnic origin, disability, age or sexual orientation. If you require assistance completing your application, please contact [email protected] for support.

Depending on your role, occasional travel between Discovery locations may be required. A valid driving license and appropriate business insurance are necessary, and you will need to provide evidence of these documents

More about Discovery Schools Trust

Discovery Schools Trust is dedicated to improving learning and teaching by creating a culture that promotes excellence. The needs of all children are placed at the heart of all decision making regardless of the school they attend. Teaching and learning excellence are shared through learning networks, sharing of ideas and materials as well as leading practitioners between schools. Discovery has developed a school improvement system which focuses on improving outcomes for all children. It also places staff development, talent management and succession planning at the heart of achieving outstanding organisations.

Please note that interviews for this position may be made earlier than the stated closing date if a suitable candidate is identified. Therefore, we encourage interested applicants to submit their applications promptly. Early submission will not only ensure consideration for the position but also increase the likelihood of being invited for an interview. We appreciate your understanding and look forward to receiving your application.

Safeguarding Statement

We are committed to safeguarding our pupils; therefore, the successful applicant will require an Enhanced Disclosure from the Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) and references.

AI

While we acknowledge the advantages of AI in crafting personal statements for applications, we strongly encourage and expect applicants to personalise and tailor responses. Please note that the Trust may utilise AI checking solutions during the application review process and will be considered when shortlisting. 

Apply Now!

If you are ready to make a difference in children's lives, apply today! 

Safeguarding Statement

Discovery Schools Academies Trust Ltd are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expect all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. Discovery Schools Academies Trust Ltd ensure that all our recruitment and selection practices reflect this commitment.