Accounting and Finance Manager

About the role

Job description

• To be accountable to the School Business Manager (SBM) in running the school’s finance function in accordance with the Academy Trust Handbook (ATH) and school’s financial regulations

• To contribute to the overall ethos, work and aims of the Academy.

Responsible for:

• Accuracy of financial data and the backup of financial records.

• Financial administration such as preparing and placing purchase orders, invoicing, and processing BACS payments.

• Coordinating purchase requirements and negotiable favourable prices with suppliers to obtain best value.

• Reconciliations of the bank, credit card, payroll and balance sheet control accounts.

• Completion of monthly payroll reconciliations and journals.

• Completion of monthly management accounts, budget monitoring reports and cash flow statements with accuracy and an understanding of the underlying narrative.

• Updating the working budget to reflect the current position.

• Leading on year-end financial processes and year-end accounts with the external auditors.

• Manage internal audit visits.

• Providing monthly budget details to budget holders.

• Preparation of statutory returns including VAT and associated returns.

• Maintenance of the fixed asset register, ensuring depreciation is accounted for.

• Maintaining the gifts register in line with current policy.

• Lead on financial queries as required.

• Continually evaluating all finance systems to ensure they are effective and efficient.

• Working with the HR and Admin teams as required to ensure robust management of finances.

• Managing and overseeing the finance team, including their workload, leave requests and appraisals.

• To complete the required Safeguarding and Mental Health training.

• To participate in arrangements for further training and development to initiate new ideas.

• Any other activity needed by the Designated Safeguarding Lead or Child Protection Officer.

• To ensure a safe working environment is maintained at all times.

• To be aware of and comply with policies and procedures, relating to child protection, safeguarding, pastoral issues, health and safety, security, confidentiality and data protection – reporting all concerns to the appropriate person.

• It should be noted that the above list of principal duties and responsibilities is not necessarily a complete statement. Alterations and further duties may be necessary and will be subject to consultation. The post hold is expected to accept any reasonable changes to his / her job description.

The duties and responsibilities listed above describe the post as it is at present. This role will be reviewed annually as part of the performance appraisal process and the post holder is expected to accept any reasonable alterations that may from time to time be necessary.

Westfield Academy is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of Children and Young people. To meet this responsibility, we follow a rigorous selection process. All successful candidates will be subject to an enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service check.