
Financial Controller
The Good Shepherd Multi Academy Trust, Penrith, CA11 7XR17 days remaining to apply
Start date details
As soon as possible
Closing date
30 March 2026 at 12pm (midday)
Date listed
13 March 2026
Job details
Job role
- Administration, HR, data and finance
Visa sponsorship
- Visas cannot be sponsored
Working pattern
- Full time: Monday - Friday 9-5 37 hours per week
Contract type
- Permanent
Pay scale
- Grade 10 SCP 25
What skills and experience we're looking for
Who We Are Looking For
As Financial Controller, you will take a central role in transforming our finance function. You will optimise our Sage Intacct accounting system, introduce automation to streamline processes, and provide advanced budget modelling and scenario planning. You will work closely with the Head of Finance and trust schools to ensure robust financial governance, compliance, and audit readiness.
This is an exciting opportunity for a proactive and analytical finance professional to influence decision-making at both trust and school levels.
Key Responsibilities
Lead the development, optimisation, and ongoing management of the Sage Intacct accounting system.
Design and implement automated processes for bank reconciliations, payment runs, and purchase ledger workflows.
Produce and present detailed financial analysis and management information to support strategic decisions.
Support the Head of Finance in liaising with trust schools and academy business managers, including consolidations, funding allocations, and compliance.
Oversee financial controls to ensure audit readiness and adherence to best practice governance.
Participate in continuous improvement of financial processes and procedures.
Assist in preparing statutory financial reports and submissions to regulatory bodies.
Ensure compliance with relevant financial regulations, policies, and procedures within the education sector.
We are seeking a highly skilled finance professional who:
Has extensive experience in financial management, preferably in the education sector.
Is proficient with Sage Intacct or similar accounting systems.
Can design and implement automation to improve efficiency and accuracy.
Possesses strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to present complex financial information clearly.
Demonstrates excellent leadership, communication, and stakeholder management skills.
Is proactive, detail-oriented, and committed to maintaining the highest standards of financial governance.
What the school offers its staff
Why Join Us?
Opportunity to lead transformation and innovation in the finance function of a growing trust.
Collaborative and supportive work environment.
Chance to make a real impact on the financial health and strategic decisionmaking of multiple schools.
Benefits
Competitive salary and pension package
25 days annual leave (plus 8 bank/public holidays)
Opportunity for hybrid working
Free flu vaccinations and eye tests
Wide ranging health and wellbeing benefits provided by Education Mutual
2 paid days / year available to take for voluntary charitable work
Central Penrith office location with easy access from the M6
Professional development opportunities
Further information about the job
Commitment to safeguarding
We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. This post is subject to an enhanced Disclosure and Barring (DBS) check.
Applying for the job
This job requires you to download an application form, you will be able to upload the application once complete.
CVs will not be accepted for this application.
Additional documents
If you need these documents in an accessible format, please contact the school.
About The Good Shepherd Multi Academy Trust
- Type
- Multi-academy trust
- Email address
- sam.scott@thegoodshepherdmat.co.uk
- Phone number
- 01768807770
Our Trust is a family of schools with a central support team that believes deeply in the same things as you - that a child’s education is about more than just academic results - it’s about preparing them to live ‘Life in all its Fullness.’
Arranging a visit to The Good Shepherd Multi Academy Trust
To arrange a visit and increase the chance of a successful application email sam.scott@thegoodshepherdmat.co.uk.
Head office location
Similar jobs nearby
Get a job alert when similar jobs are listed