Finance Systems and Controls Manager at Discovery Schools Academies Trust Ltd

Finance Systems & Controls Manager 

Discovery Schools Trust 

Salary: Grade 9, Pay Point Range 19-22,  £31,073 - £33,293*

Hours:  37 hours per week, 52 weeks per year 

Contract Type: Permanent

*Pending Pay Award Salary Uplift for Support Staff*Discovery Trust is looking for an experienced, proactive and solutions-focused Finance Systems and Controls Manager to join our Central Finance Team. This is an exciting opportunity to play a key role in ensuring our financial systems, controls and processes are robust, efficient and fit for the future. The role leads the Trust's finance systems, controls and transactional finance operations, supporting strong governance, compliance and continuous improvement across our growing family of schools.

Reporting to the Director of Finance, you will be the lead expert for the Trust's finance systems, maintaining the integrity of financial data, strengthening financial controls and driving automation and process improvements. You will oversee transactional finance activities, support audit readiness and ensure compliance with key regulatory requirements, helping colleagues across the Trust work effectively and confidently within our financial procedures.

This is a role for someone who enjoys combining technical expertise with problem-solving, collaboration and continuous improvement. You'll work closely with school leaders, budget holders and central teams, making a real impact on how financial services are delivered across Discovery Trust.

What We're Looking For

We are seeking a finance professional who:

• Has experience of finance systems, financial controls and transactional finance operations.
• Can identify opportunities to improve processes, automate workflows and enhance service delivery.
• Has strong attention to detail and a commitment to compliance, accuracy and data integrity.
• Builds positive relationships and provides excellent support to colleagues.
• Enjoys developing others and leading a high-performing team.
• Is motivated by making a difference in an organisation that serves children and young people.

Please refer to the Job Description and Person Specification to support your application.

Why Join Us?

Professional Growth & Support

• Ongoing professional development opportunities.
• Access to learning networks and visits to other organisations.
• Supportive leadership and a highly committed team.
• Highly committed and motivated Team.
• A role which has the opportunity to make a real difference whilst having fun.
• A established Central Services Team who support schools and wider colleagues.

Work-Life & Wellbeing Benefits

• Flexible working options.
• Employee Assistance Programme (EAP).
• Defined benefit pension scheme.
• Be an integral member of the team in a vibrant school.
• Create an outstanding learning environment for the success of all of our children.
• Play a significant part in continuing to develop our school.
• Be part of a wider community of Discovery Schools Trust.
• Free childcare.

Additional Perks

• Free parking.
• Cycle-to-work scheme.
• Gym discounts.
• Eyecare vouchers.
• Dental support.
• Retail discounts.
• Annual incremental pay increases within the pay scale.

Equal Opportunities & Accessibility

We welcome enquiries from everyone and value diversity in our workforce.
Applications are welcome from all sections of the community regardless of gender identity, ethnic origin, disability, age or sexual orientation. If you require assistance completing your application, please contact hrsupport@discoverytrust.org for support.

Depending on your role, occasional travel between Discovery locations may be required. A valid driving license and appropriate business insurance are necessary, and you will need to provide evidence of these documents

More about Discovery Schools Trust

Discovery Schools Trust is dedicated to improving learning and teaching by creating a culture that promotes excellence. The needs of all children are placed at the heart of all decision making regardless of the school they attend. Teaching and learning excellence are shared through learning networks, sharing of ideas and materials as well as leading practitioners between schools. Discovery has developed a school improvement system which focuses on improving outcomes for all children. It also places staff development, talent management and succession planning at the heart of achieving outstanding organisations.

Please note that interviews for this position may be made earlier than the stated closing date if a suitable candidate is identified. Therefore, we encourage interested applicants to submit their applications promptly. Early submission will not only ensure consideration for the position but also increase the likelihood of being invited for an interview. We appreciate your understanding and look forward to receiving your application.

Safeguarding Statement

We are committed to safeguarding our pupils; therefore, the successful applicant will require an Enhanced Disclosure from the Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) and references.

AI

While we acknowledge the advantages of AI in crafting personal statements for applications, we strongly encourage and expect applicants to personalise and tailor responses. Please note that the Trust may utilise AI checking solutions during the application review process and will be considered when shortlisting. 

Apply Now!
If you are ready to make a difference in children's lives, apply today!