Chief Financial Officer and School Business Manager

Employer: Helix Academies Trust

Location: Stockport, SK6 6LB

Pay: Competitive

Contract Type: Permanent

Hours: Full time

Disability Confident: No

Closing Date: 12/02/2026

About this role

Helix Academies Trust is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults. We welcome applications from underrepresented groups including ethnicity, gender, transgender, age, disability, sexual orientation or religion.

As Chief Financial Officer and School Business Manager you will play a dual role: oversee the financial affairs of the Trust and serve as the Business Manager for Marple Hall School in the short term, with plans to separate these roles as the Trust expands.

Responsibilities

• Lead and maintain sound financial operations across the Trust and the secondary school.
• Develop and implement robust financial plans, budgets, and accounting systems.
• Ensure compliance with the Academies Handbook and all statutory requirements.
• Provide financial insight and support to the Chief Executive and senior leadership.
• Build strong relationships with stakeholders, including staff, parents, and external partners.
• Identify and mitigate financial risks, and recommend improvements.

Qualifications

• Proven track record in financial management within the education sector.
• Strong analytical, problem‑solving and communication skills.
• Experience with budgeting, accounting systems, and financial reporting.
• Organisational, interpersonal and IT skills to work effectively with minimal supervision.
• Diplomatic, self‑motivated and able to work as part of a team.

Application Process

Submit an application form detailing your relevant skills and experience. Contact Gaynor Carpenter (gaynor.carpentermarplehall.stockport.sch.uk) for information. All candidates must complete a Disclosure and Barring Service check in line with the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act (ROA) 1974 and the Police Act Regulations.

Fluency in spoken English is essential. Applications will be received until the closing date.