Financial Controller

Advantage Schools Job Reference EDV/2026/VA/22198 Location Wilbury Drive, Dunstable, Bedfordshire, LU5 4QP Contract Type Permanent Contract Term Full-Time Salary £64,464.00 - £69,855.00 Annually (Actual) AS 52-57 £64,464 £69,855 dependent on experience Closing Date Midnight, Mon 5th Oct, 2026 Start Date January 2027 or asap Advantage Schools is seeking an experienced and committed Financial Controller to join our hardworking and dedicated Finance Team. You will oversee and manage all financial operations across the Trust including line management of team. Reporting to the Chief Financial Officer (CFO), the role requires a highly skilled and motivated manager with extensive experience in managing staff, financial and management reporting, and operational activities within the educational sector. This position is crucial for ensuring the financial stability, accountability, and efficiency of the Trust, in line with statutory and regulatory requirements. You will be joining a diverse finance team made up of experienced professionals, newer team members, and colleagues progressing through their finance qualifications, all contributing to a collaborative and supportive culture. The successful candidate will have

• ACA, ACCA, CIMA, or equivalent qualification with significant experience in a financial management role.
• Proven experience as a Financial Controller or similar role, with specific experience in financial management within a Multi-Academy Trust, educational setting, or non-profit sector.
• Strong understanding of financial regulations, accounting standards, and the funding framework for academies (including DfE requirements).
• Strong leadership and team management skills.
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to interpret complex financial data.
• High proficiency in financial software and Excel; experience with MAT-specific financial systems (e.g., PS Financials, Sage, FMS) is an advantage.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to engage effectively with internal and external stakeholders. JOB SPECIFICS Start date: January 2027 or asap Salary: AS 52-57 £64,464-£69,855 dependent on experience Job role: Permanent, Full time, 52 weeks, 37 hours per week Location: Trust Central Office at The Vale Academy, Dunstable LU5 4QP The Trust reserves the right to interview and appoint a suitable candidate before the deadline date. Safeguarding The safeguarding and welfare of children is paramount and all our staff share this view. Applicants must be willing to undergo safeguarding and child protection checks including with past employers and the Disclosure and Barring Service. For more information and to apply, please visit our website via the apply button below.