Page Executive

Bedfordshire, East of England Board level finance role Part of a growing UK manufacturing business About Our Client Our client is a well-established small manufacturing business specialising in high-quality products for industrial and commercial applications. With a strong reputation for quality, and customer service, they are entering an exciting phase of strategic and operational development that the Finance Director will play a key role in supporting. Job Description This role will be pivotal in shaping the financial strategy of the business, driving performance, and supporting sustainable growth. The successful candidate will provide clear financial leadership, robust reporting, and insightful analysis to inform key business decisions. Lead and manage the finance function, ensuring accurate and timely financial reporting Develop and execute financial strategy aligned with business objectives Provide strategic financial insight and guidance to the Managing Director and Board Oversee budgeting, forecasting, and cash flow management Drive cost control initiatives and margin improvement across the business Ensure compliance with statutory requirements, audits, and tax regulations Support operational teams with financial analysis and performance metrics Evaluate investment opportunities, capital expenditure, and ROI Manage relationships with external stakeholders including auditors, banks, and advisors Develop and mentor the finance team to enhance capability and performance The Successful Applicant We are looking for an experienced, qualified Finance Director (ACA, ACCA, CIMA or equivalent) who wants to be highly visible and have impact on the business growth and development. You will bring a proven track record in senior finance leadership, ideally within manufacturing, along with the commercial edge to influence at board level. Experience in SME environments is key, as is the ability to operate both strategically and also be hands-on when needed. This is a visible, on-site role in a close-knit team. We are looking for someone approachable, engaging and naturally collaborative. A Finance Director who enjoys getting out into the business, building relationships with operations, and really understanding how things work in all areas of the business. You will be proactive and curious to understand all areas of the business and deputise for the MD if required. Above all, you'll bring a pragmatic, solutions-focused mindset, with high levels of integrity/professionalism and the leadership skills to support and develop a small team. What's on Offer Six Figure Package This will be an onsite role

About Our Client Ridgeway Education Trust is at an exciting stage of development. We are a Trust of eight schools based in and around Didcot, comprising a mix of Church of England and non-faith schools, including two secondary and six primary schools. We value the diversity of our schools alongside the strength that comes from our close geographical proximity. With an ambitious vision for the future, we plan to continue growing the Trust in the coming years. Our mission is to create excellence through high quality education for three to nineteen year olds, with strong collaboration at our heart. We believe school improvement is most effective when best practice is shared through deep professional collaboration, underpinned by trust, support and challenge. We value our people and take seriously our responsibility for staff wellbeing. Our values of ambition, integrity and leading for legacy guide our decision-making and ensure children and young people remain at the centre of all we do. We are seeking an experienced Chief Financial Officer to join our established Executive Team and play a key role in shaping and delivering the Trust's next strategic plan and longer term future. Job Description Provide strategic leadership for the Trust's financial management, ensuring long term sustainability, value for money and alignment with our educational priorities. Lead on budgeting, forecasting, management accounts and statutory reporting, presenting clear and timely financial information to our Executive, Board and the committees. Oversee the Trust-wide financial systems, controls, procurement and compliance with the Academy Trust Handbook and other regulatory frameworks. Provide strategic oversight of Human Resources and payroll, including workforce planning, affordability modelling and employment compliance. Lead risk management, audit, insurance and assurance processes, advising the CEO and Trustees on financial and operational risk. The Successful Applicant Senior financial leadership experience, ideally as a CFO, Finance Director or Deputy in a complex, multi-site not for profit or public sector organisation. Strong track record of strategic financial planning, budget management and statutory reporting within a regulated environment. Experience of leading and developing professional finance and/or HR teams, with the credibility to operate at Board and Executive level. Strong understanding of governance, risk management and value-for-money principles; academies or education sector experience desirable but not essential. What's on Offer Competitive salary ranging from £90,000 to £95,000 per annum. Additional benefits including annual leave and LGPS pension. Opportunity to influence the financial direction of a meaningful organisation. This is an opportunity to join the Trust at an important point in its journey. The role carries real purpose, with the chance to contribute positively to the education and experiences of children and young people across Didcot and the surrounding area. Ridgeway Education Trust is committed to safeguarding, equality and promoting the welfare of children and expects staff working in all its schools to share this commitment. The successful applicant will be subject to satisfactory enhanced DBS, references and pre-employment safeguarding checks. The possession of a criminal record will not necessarily prevent an applicant from obtaining a post. All cases are considered confidentially and according to the nature of the role and information disclosed. To view our Safeguarding policy, please visit our website: Safeguarding - Ridgeway Education Trust Please be aware that you will be required to bring proof of right to work in the UK and photographic ID, as applicable, to interview and online searches may be made for shortlisted candidates, as part of due diligence checks. Job summary Function CFO & Financial Management Subsector CFO & Financial Management Subsector Industry Public Sector & Not-For-Profit Location Didcot Contract type Permanent Consultant name Elizabeth Campion Job reference JN-065