Job Description

Interim Finance Consultant (Schools / MAT) — London | 3–6 month contract

A London-based school trust is seeking an experienced Interim Finance Consultant to provide hands-on support across finance operations, reporting and forecasting during a period of change. This is a 3–6 month assignment with the potential to extend, offering a mix of strategic input and “roll sleeves up” delivery.

The role:

You’ll work closely with the team to stabilise and strengthen core finance processes, ensure accurate and timely reporting, and support budget planning across multiple schools.

Key responsibilities will include:

Leading/supporting monthly management accounts and variance analysis

Budget setting and reforecasting across schools and central services

Cashflow forecasting and improved financial controls

Supporting year-end activity and liaising with auditors where required

Reviewing processes (purchase-to-pay, approvals, payroll journals) and implementing improvements

Producing clear, stakeholder-friendly reporting for senior leadership and trustees

Coaching/mentoring internal finance staff as needed

About you:

You’ll be confident operating in a fast-paced education environment, able to quickly assess what’s needed and deliver practical solutions.

You’ll ideally have:

Recent interim experience within a school trust / MAT / education finance setting

Strong management accounting, budgeting and forecasting capability

A robust understanding of financial compliance and internal controls

Ability to engage and influence non-finance stakeholders

Advanced Excel skills (and comfort with common school finance systems)

Qualifications: ACA / ACCA / CIMA (or equivalent) preferred, but relevant experience is most important.

Contract details

Length: 3–6 months (possible extension)

Location: London

Start: ASAP / short notice preferred

Day rate: Competitive (dependent on experience)

Apply

If you’re an interim finance professional who can add value quickly in a school trust environment, please get in touch with your CV (and availability).

If you want, tell me the trust type (MAT or LA maintained), working pattern (on-site days), and whether you need someone more strategic (FD-level) or more hands-on (Finance Manager/Business Manager level), and I’ll tailor this advert to match