Financial Controller
£44,700
Going rate
Skilled Worker going rate
This role may qualify for a Skilled Worker visa
SOC 3534 is an eligible occupation, but we are only 45% sure that is the right code. Michael Page is a licensed sponsor, so if the code fits, the role should qualify. Check the occupation eligibility rules against what the job actually involves.
This could also be SOC 2421 (Chartered and certified accountants) or SOC 1131 (Financial managers and directors). We read the code off the advert, so it is our best guess, not the employer's.
About the role
The Financial Controller will play a pivotal role in the effective financial management of the school. Working with the Director of Finance the Financial Controller will oversee budgeting, management accounts, compliance with relevant legislation, preparation of year-end accounts, and the external audit process.
Client Details
I'm pleased to be partnering with a leading Surrey based independent co-educational day school recruit for a Financial Controller on a permanent basis.
Description
* Ensure strong financial governance, compliance with regulations, and internal controls.
* Deliver detailed financial, costing, and margin analysis, identifying opportunities to improve profitability and operational efficiency.
* Oversee standard costing models, including regular review and updates to reflect operational changes.
* Analyse and report on cost variances, providing clear insight and identifying areas for improvement.
* Monitor and improve financial processes to enhance efficiency and control.
* Collaborate with internal departments to provide financial insights and decision-making support.
* Ensure timely and accurate preparation of statutory accounts and tax returns.
* Own month-end close, ledger integrity, balance sheet controls, and reconciliations.
* Deliver timely and accurate management accounts with meaningful analysis and insight.
* Develop and monitor budgets to support organisational objectives.
* Manage the preparation of monthly, quarterly, and annual financial reports.
* Manage cashflow forecasting and reporting on a monthly basis.
* Act as a key contact within the Finance team for departmental budget holders.
* Manage all VAT returns and ensure full compliance with VAT regulations.
* Liaise with external auditors and tax advisors when required.
* Prepare the consolidated group VAT return.
* Oversee the day to day running and activities of the Finance team, managing workload of the other Finance team members
* Produce an accurate and timely consolidated management accounts pack and present to the Director of Finance each month, including forecasting.
* Produce an in-depth analysis of the accounts, with particular attention to variances against budget and previous month end.
* Prepare and process month end journals and reconciliations.
* Support the Director of Finance in the compilation of the overall School budget for presentation to Governors.
* Manage the fixed asset module and ensure depreciation has been posted to NetSuite before month end procedure. Liaise with key stakeholders and provide reporting assistance where required.
* Support the Director of Finance in the capex budgeting process
Profile
A successful Financial Controller should have:
* Fully qualified CIMA or ACCA
* Working knowledge of charitable accounting and legislation
* Understanding of the requirements of GDPR and relevant financial legislation
* A full understanding and experience of preparation, execution, and presentation of management accounts to key stakeholders
* Line management experience
* Strong technical accounting skills and knowledge of accounting best practice
* Excellent analytical skills and the ability to interpret financial data
* Experience with managing the external audit process
Desirable Criteria
* Experience in a finance role within education, preferably within the independent sector
* Strong working knowledge of accounting software packages (NetSuite would be advantageous)
Job Offer
- Salary between £60,000 and £65,000, dependent on the level of experience.
- Pension
- Flexible working
- Hybrid working
- Medical support and employee assistance programme
- Holiday camps and local retailer discounts
- Fee remission
- Life insurance
If you're interested in this role, apply now.
People are at the heart of Michael Page. We are committed to creating an inclusive environment. As an inclusive recruiter we welcome applications from people of all backgrounds, identities and experiences. If you require any adjustments or accommodations during the recruitment process, we'll work with you to ensure you can perform at your best.
ACA, ACCA, CIMA, Weybridge, Surrey, School, SORP
This description is the source posting as it read when we added it. We are not affiliated with Michael Page, so check their own site for the current details.
Where this offer sits in the market
Financial accounts managers (SOC 3534) · UK · ONS ASHE 2025 · basic pay · ~123k in sample- Middle half £36,556–61,412
- Median £46,124
- Going rate £44,700
- Threshold £41,700
- New entrant £33,400–40,230
Similar sponsored roles
See all UK visa jobsAbout sponsorship for this role
Does this job guarantee visa sponsorship?
Not necessarily. Michael Page holds a sponsor licence, but sponsorship for a specific hire is always the employer's decision. Be upfront in your application that you'll require it.
What salary is needed for this role to be eligible?
The offer must clear both the general threshold and the SOC 3534 going rate of £44,700. New-entrant and shortage discounts can lower it.