Deputy Chief Financial and Operations Officer

About Us

 

 This is for all schools across the trust

Lion Academy Trust is a forward-thinking educational trust committed to delivering outstanding educational outcomes. We are seeking a highly skilled and proactive Deputy Chief Financial and Operations Officer (DCFOO) to join our executive team and play a key role in driving operational excellence across finance, HR, ICT, estates, procurement, administration, and marketing.

 

The Role

As the DCFOO, you will be responsible for ensuring the trust’s resources are effectively managed, compliance is maintained, and operational services support educational success. Reporting to the Chief Financial and Operations Officer (CFOO), you will lead strategic initiatives, manage financial planning, and oversee risk management. You will also deputise for the CFOO when required, ensuring continuity in financial and operational leadership.

 

Key Responsibilities:

• Provide strategic leadership across finance, HR, ICT, estates, procurement, administration, and marketing.
• Ensure LAT makes the best possible use of resources through efficient planning and budget management
• Lead financial oversight, ensuring compliance with the Academies Trust Handbook and ESFA guidelines.
• Oversee estates and facilities management, ensuring all settings are safe, compliant, and fit for purpose.
• Manage and monitor ICT infrastructure, cyber security, and digital transformation projects.
• Work closely with HR teams to support recruitment, staff retention, and workforce planning.
• Drive continuous operational improvement and risk mitigation across all LAT schools.

 

What We’re Looking For:

• A strategic leader with a proven track record in financial and operational management within a multi-site organisation (education sector experience desirable).
• Professional qualification in finance, business, HR, or project management (e.g., ACA, ACCA, CIMA, CMI, CIPD, PRINCE2).
• Strong experience in budgetary control, procurement, estates management, and HR processes.
• Exceptional leadership and communication skills with the ability to engage stakeholders at all levels.
• Experience managing large-scale projects, contracts, and service improvements.
• A highly organised and results-driven approach with a commitment to excellence in education.

 

We can offer you:

• Career progression
• unlimited access to CPD and career development through providers such as The National College and The Key.
• Employee Assistance programme for you and your immediate family 
• Perks at Work

 

Closing Date: 11^th April 2025 12pm

 

The Trust/School is an equal opportunities employer and is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and people, and the successful applicant must provide satisfactory references and will be subject to an enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service disclosure, along with all relevant safeguarding checks.