Chief Financial Officer

Chief Financial Officer (CFO)

Are you a strategic and dynamic financial leader looking to make a meaningful impact in education? We are seeking an exceptional Chief Financial Officer (CFO) to join our ambitious and growing Multi-Academy Trust, comprising 11 schools across Cheshire.

About Us

The Halliard Trust is committed to delivering outstanding educational outcomes and ensuring every child has the opportunity to thrive. We foster a culture of collaboration, accountability, and continuous improvement across all our schools. With a strong track record of success and a shared vision, we are now looking for a CFO who will play a key role in shaping our future.

The Role

As CFO, you will be a key member of the Executive Leadership Team, providing strategic direction and leadership across all financial and commercial aspects of the Trust. You will be responsible for:

• Leading on all aspects of financial strategy, planning, compliance, and reporting
• Overseeing financial operations across all 11 academies and the central team, ensuring robust and sustainable budgeting
• Providing insightful analysis and advice to support strategic decision-making
• Managing contracts and procurement, ensuring value for money and effective supplier relationships
• Leading on risk management and ensuring compliance with ESFA and DfE regulations
• Line managing and developing a high-performing finance team
• Overseeing the Trust’s commercial contract management
• Overseeing the Trust's Facilities and Health & Safety function

About You

We are looking for a qualified accountant (ACA, ACCA, CIMA or equivalent) with significant leadership experience in finance—ideally in the education, public, or not-for-profit sectors. You will be:

• A strategic thinker with a strong commercial acumen
• A confident communicator, able to influence at all levels including Trustees and external stakeholders
• Experienced in managing complex budgets and large-scale contracts
• Committed to the values of education and making a difference in young people’s lives
• Experience within the education sector or a Multi-Academy Trust is desirable but not essential

Why Join Us?

• An opportunity to play a pivotal role in a successful and values-driven Trust
• Collaborative and supportive leadership team
• Competitive salary and generous pension scheme
• Opportunities for professional development and growth

To Apply:

For an informal discussion about the role, please contact Jeremy Spencer, CEO, via his PA, Alison Nuttall on alison.nuttall@halliardtrust.com.