Finance Trustee Opportunity
Help Shape the Future of Specialist Education
Brighter Futures Educational Trust is seeking a committed and experienced Finance Trustee to join our Board and play a key role in overseeing the financial sustainability, strategic development and governance of our Trust.
- Are you looking for an opportunity to use your financial expertise to make a meaningful difference in your local community?
- Do you believe every child deserves the opportunity to thrive and succeed?
- Do you have experience in finance, audit, risk management, estates or business leadership?
- Would you like to contribute your professional skills while developing your strategic leadership and governance experience?
This is a rewarding opportunity to support a specialist multi-academy trust providing education for nearly 200 pupils with social, emotional and mental health (SEMH) needs across North Hertfordshire, with ambitions for future growth.
About the Trust
Brighter Futures Educational Trust is a small trust that makes a significant difference. The Trust comprises two specialist schools:
- Larwood School – a mixed primary provision
- Brandles School – a boys' secondary provision
Together, our schools provide outstanding educational pathways within nurturing environments for children and young people with social, emotional and mental health needs and behavioural difficulties.
About the Role
As a Trustee, you will be part of the Trust Board, responsible for:
- Setting the strategic direction of the Trust
- Ensuring effective stewardship of public funds
- Holding senior leaders to account for educational and financial performance
- Ensuring robust governance, risk management and regulatory compliance
We are particularly seeking individuals with strong financial and commercial expertise who can contribute to the Trust's financial oversight and long-term sustainability.
We are especially interested in candidates with experience in:
- Accountancy, finance or financial management
- Budget setting, forecasting and financial planning
- Internal or external audit
- Business leadership or commercial management
- Charity, public sector or education finance (desirable but not essential)
Additional opportunities include:
- Chairing the Trust's Finance and Resources Committee
- Supporting the development of financial strategy and sustainability plans
- Providing independent scrutiny and challenge regarding financial performance and risk
Time Commitment
The role is voluntary but highly rewarding.
Trustees can expect to commit to:
- Six Board meetings per year (three in person and three online)
- Four to five Finance and Resources Committee meetings per year (online)
- One school visit per term
- Occasional training and development activities
A comprehensive induction and ongoing training programme will be provided.
About You
We are looking for individuals who:
- Have a professional background in finance, audit, accounting, business management or a related field
- Are committed to high standards of governance and accountability
- Can analyse financial and management information and identify key risks and opportunities
- Are confident providing constructive challenge and independent scrutiny
- Work collaboratively while maintaining an objective and strategic perspective
- Have strong communication, listening and interpersonal skills
- Are committed to continuous learning and personal development
Previous governance experience is welcomed but not essential. We are keen to hear from professionals who can bring fresh perspectives and specialist expertise to our Board.
Commitment to Diversity
Brighter Futures Educational Trust is committed to ensuring diversity across all aspects of its governance. We welcome applications from individuals of all backgrounds, experiences and communities, recognising that diverse perspectives strengthen decision-making and improve outcomes for the children and young people we serve.
Your financial expertise could help shape the future of specialist education and improve the life chances of some of the most vulnerable young people in our communities.