Accounting and Finance Manager

Who we are

Westfield Academy is a thriving, oversubscribed single academy trust in Watford with over 1,300 students. We are proud of our inclusive ethos, high standards, and commitment to supporting every learner to achieve their potential.

Rated “Good” by Ofsted since our conversion in 2013, most recently in November 2024. Our culture is shaped by three simple values: Believe, Strive, Achieve. They guide how we teach, how we support, and how we grow together as a community.

With a strong leadership team, excellent facilities and an ambitious outlook, this is an exciting time to join us. We are focused on strengthening financial resilience, widening enrichment opportunities, and shaping capital and community developments that will benefit generations to come.

About the role

We are seeking an Accounting and Finance Manager to lead the day-to-day financial operations of the Trust. This role is central to ensuring our financial management is sound, compliant, and forward-looking.

You’ll work closely with the Trust Business Manager and senior leaders, providing timely reporting and insight to support decision-making and long-term planning. Your expertise will keep us compliant with ESFA and DfE regulations while also helping us get the most out of every resource available to us.

Key aspects of the role include:

• Managing accounts payable, receivable, payroll, and bank reconciliations
• Overseeing monthly management accounts, forecasts, and variance reports
• Preparing and monitoring annual budgets alongside senior leaders
• Liaising with external auditors and ensuring year-end processes run smoothly

Who we’re looking for

We’re looking for someone with the financial expertise and attention to detail to guide a busy single academy trust with confidence. You’ll combine technical ability with a collaborative mindset, making complex financial matters clear to colleagues across the school.

We’d love to hear from you if you have:

• A professional accountancy qualification (ACA, ACCA, or CIMA), fully or part-qualified
• A proven track record of delivering high-quality financial management in a complex organisation
• Strong analytical skills and the ability to produce clear financial reports for senior leaders
• Excellent communication skills and the integrity to handle sensitive information with discretion

Experience within the education or charitable sector would be an advantage, but it’s not essential. What matters most is your ability to help us maintain robust financial systems, safeguard resources, and plan for the future with confidence.

Please contact Horatio April by emailing Horatio@peridotpartners.co.uk or visit our website for details: https://www.peridotpartners.co.uk/jobs/accounting-and-finance-manager-westfield-academy/

Closing date: 9 a.m. Friday 19th September