Ivy Rock Partners is supporting a growing, values-led education trust in the appointment of a Finance Manager to provide high-quality financial leadership across a group of specialist education settings. This is a senior operational finance role, offering the opportunity to work closely with executive and academy leadership teams to ensure strong financial planning, control and decision-making. The role The Finance Manager will be responsible for the financial management, planning and reporting for multiple sites, working in partnership with senior leaders to ensure resources are deployed effectively, compliantly and in line with best value principles. The role combines hands-on financial management with strategic support, requiring strong relationship-building skills and the confidence to challenge, advise and influence at senior level. Key responsibilities will include: • Leading financial planning and management across multiple sites, aligned to improvement plans and organisational priorities • Developing and maintaining robust financial systems, processes and controls • Preparing annual budgets and multi-year forecasts as part of longer-term financial planning • Producing timely and accurate monthly management accounts and financial reports for senior leaders and budget holders • Monitoring income and expenditure, holding review meetings to challenge assumptions and promote best value • Maintaining accurate accounting records, including trial balances, balance sheets and