Head of Finance

Robertson Bell is delighted to be exclusively partnering with Ibstock Place School in the search for a Head of Finance. Ibstock Place is a leading independent co-educational school known for its strong academic performance, inclusive ethos, and commitment to providing an outstanding educational environment.

With significant investment in facilities and a continued focus on operational excellence, the School is seeking a commercially minded finance leader to play a key role in supporting its long-term financial sustainability and strategic ambitions.

The Head of Finance is a senior leadership position, reporting to the Bursar and working closely with Governors and budget holders across the School. You will provide strategic and operational oversight of the finance function, ensuring robust financial management, high-quality reporting, and effective governance.

Key responsibilities include:

• Lead and manage the finance team, including performance management, development, and succession planning.
• Oversee budgeting, forecasting, and financial planning processes, ensuring alignment with the School s strategic priorities.
• Produce timely, insightful management information with clear narrative to support decision-making.
• Lead the preparation of statutory returns and annual accounts, ensuring compliance with all regulatory and reporting requirements.
• Manage the year-end process and act as the primary contact for external auditors.
• Maintain strong cash flow oversight and prepare accurate cash forecasts.
• Ensure effective financial controls, policies, and procedures are in place and continuously improved.
• Oversee the financial systems environment, ensuring it remains fit for purpose and fully utilised.
• Support and guide budget holders, promoting financial accountability across the School.
• Deputise for the Bursar on financial matters as required.

Candidate Profile

We are seeking a proactive, collaborative, and technically strong finance professional who can operate both strategically and hands-on.

Essential experience and attributes:

• A recognised professional accountancy qualification (ACA, ACCA, CIMA or equivalent).
• Proven experience in a senior finance leadership or management role.
• Strong track record of budgeting, forecasting, and financial reporting.
• Experience working with Boards, Governors, or senior stakeholders.
• Excellent understanding of financial controls, compliance, and best practice.
• Demonstrated ability to lead and develop teams effectively.
• Strong communication skills with the ability to present complex financial information clearly.

Desirable:

• Experience within education, charity, or not-for-profit environments.

Why Join Ibstock Place School?

• Opportunity to play a pivotal role in a respected and well-established independent school.
• Broad and varied remit with genuine influence across the organisation.
• Collaborative leadership team and strong organisational values.
• Chance to contribute to the continued development of facilities, services, and financial strategy.

Location & Working Pattern

The role is based on site at the School in Roehampton, South West London, with on-site presence expected to support close collaboration with stakeholders.