Bursar / Financial Controller - Cranbrook

Full Job Description

The Bursar / Financial Controller will report to the Director of Finance, and will liaise closely with senior management and department heads, whilst overseeing the day-today financial management and control of the school and it's trading companies and other subsidiaries.

Client Details

This role is with a highly reputable independent school, located in rural Kent, on the East Sussex Border, which offers boarding and day places.

Description

The Financial Controller / Bursar will will oversee the day-to-day financial management and control of the School, it's trading companies, and other subsidiaries and related entities.

The role will include preparation of the Statutory Report and Accounts, the year end External Audit process and liaison with auditors, and line management of the Finance Team of 9 staff.

Key responsibilities include:

• Provision of accurate and timely financial management information
• Managing the financial activities of the school and its subsidiaries
• Overseeing the production of statutory accounts and returns
• Preparation of monthly, quarterly and annual accounts
• Preparing papers for use at senior meetings
• Working with the billing manager to ensure that income due to the school is collected, and appropriately managing debts
• Ensure compliance with the Companies Act, Charity Commission regulations and all relevant GAAPs / FRSs
• Monitor the financial performance of the school through KPI development and monitoring
• Appropriate investment of school funds
• Developing annual budgets in conjunction with all functions
• Supporting the Payrolle Manager
• Ensure that all VAT and other tax records and returns are accurate and complete
• Monitor overheads and operating expenses.

Profile

The ideal candidate for this Bursar / Financial Controller position should have:

• A formal accounting qualification - ACA, ACCA, CIMA
• Strong technical and commercial skills
• An excellent understanding of tax matters
• Outstanding communication skills
• The ability to balance the need to be hands on with delegation where appropriate
• A strong track record of success in leading and developing teams

Private, independent education sector experience would be an advantage, and strong SORP / Charity accounting experience is also very beneficial.

Job Offer

• A competitive salary in the range of £70-80,000 annually
• A fantastic working environment (this role is based at the school 5 days per week)
• School pension scheme
• 25 days annual leave + bank holidays
• Free use of the school fitness centre and swimming pool
• Free school meals