Assistant Finance Director

The Assistant Finance Director will report directly to the Director of Finance on a day to day basis but for specific projects will work under the direction of the CFO. They will be support the Director of Finance who is ultimately responsible for the effective management and development of financial resources in line with the organisation's vision. The post-holder will oversee that all relevant regulations and legislation are complied with. The Assistant Director of Finance will be key in supporting the CFO, Principals and College leadership team with implementation and actions within the five-year strategic plans for the College.

1. Overseeing the production and preparation of the Trust and College Statutory accounts in adherence with DfE and EFA guidelines measured by clean and unqualified opinion.

2. Lead the preparation and submission of financial returns to the DfE, EFA, SFA and other relevant organisations within specific deadlines, not limited to the Academies Accounts Return, March Accounts Return, Budget Return & FMGS.

3. Development of benchmarking reports to enable the College and Academy Trust to seek value for money.

4. Responsible for ensuring compliance with regards to VAT returns, Gift Aid claims, Corporation Tax returns and other mandatory requirements manage audit thereon. Advise the Directors/Trustees on all relevant aspects of Company and Taxation Law.

5. Preparation and presentation of reports on Financial Compliance to Committee meetings, eg Connected persons, related parties, etc

6. Annual collation of reports for year end in regard to pensions and fund balances.

7. Provide regular pension updates to FSLT on pension contribution rates and liaise with funds to negotiate future rates at triennial valuations.

8. Drive improvements in the production of statutory and management accounts processes that enables time and headspace for the teams to focus on the strategic objectives.

9. To oversee all audit processes, ensure that recommendations are acted on and maintain the audit finding feedback report for audit committee.

10. Take full responsibility for production and updates of organisation financial regulations, Scheme of Delegation and Register of Interest procedures and ensure adherence to them.

11. Monitor the Trust's cash flow, ensuring that payments are made within agreed time limits and surplus funds are invested to maximise returns.

12. Monitor the Trust's investments and advise the Finance & Resources Committee on investment policy.

13. Ensure the delivery and implementation of an integrated finance system that supports service delivery for the finance teams but also the College

14. To work closely with the Director of Finance on the implementation of the SAGE. Line manage External Reporting teams, including monitoring of staff performance and appraisals, annual leave, sickness, risk assessment and other relevant staff matters.

15. Provide support and challenge to the Director of Finance, CFO and Finance team by showing exceptional leadership qualities.