Financial Controller

Role: Financial Controller

Contract Type: Permanent - 37 hours per week.

Location: Church House, Penrith

About The Good Shepherd Trust 
The Good Shepherd Trust is a community of schools supported by a dedicated central team, united by a shared belief that every child should have access to an excellent education, regardless of background. We believe that education goes beyond academic achievement, and we’re committed to helping every pupil reach their full potential and embrace life in all its fullness. 

Are you an experienced finance professional with a passion for driving efficiency and innovation in financial management? We are seeking a Financial Controller to lead the development and optimisation of our trust’s accounting systems, deliver insightful financial analysis, and support strategic decision making across our schools.

About the Role
As Financial Controller, you will take a central role in transforming our finance function. You will optimise our Sage Intacct accounting system, introduce automation to streamline processes, and provide advanced budget modelling and scenario planning. You will work closely with the Head of Finance and trust schools to ensure robust financial governance, compliance, and audit readiness.
This is an exciting opportunity for a proactive and analytical finance professional to influence decision-making at both trust and school levels.

Key Responsibilities
•    Lead the development, optimisation, and ongoing management of the Sage Intacct accounting system.
•    Design and implement automated processes for bank reconciliations, payment runs, and purchase ledger workflows.
•    Produce and present detailed financial analysis and management information to support strategic decisions.
•    Support the Head of Finance in liaising with trust schools and academy business managers, including consolidations, funding allocations, and compliance.
•    Oversee financial controls to ensure audit readiness and adherence to best practice governance.
•    Participate in continuous improvement of financial processes and procedures.
•    Assist in preparing statutory financial reports and submissions to regulatory bodies.
•    Ensure compliance with relevant financial regulations, policies, and procedures within the education sector.

Who We Are Looking For
We are seeking a highly skilled finance professional who:
•    Has extensive experience in financial management, preferably in the education sector.
•    Is proficient with Sage Intacct or similar accounting systems.
•    Can design and implement automation to improve efficiency and accuracy.
•    Possesses strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to present complex financial information clearly.
•    Demonstrates excellent leadership, communication, and stakeholder management skills.
•    Is proactive, detail-oriented, and committed to maintaining the highest standards of financial governance.

Why Join Us?
•    Opportunity to lead transformation and innovation in the finance function of a growing trust.
•    Collaborative and supportive work environment.
•    Chance to make a real impact on the financial health and strategic decision making of multiple schools.
Benefits 
•    Competitive salary and pension package 
•    25 days annual leave (plus 8 bank/public holidays) 
•    Opportunity for hybrid working 
•    Free flu vaccinations and eye tests 
•    Wide ranging health and wellbeing benefits provided by Education Mutual 
•    2 paid days / year available to take for voluntary charitable work 
•    Central Penrith office location with easy access from the M6 
•    Professional development opportunities

The Good Shepherd Multi Academy Trust is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and expects all staff to share this commitment.
Applications are welcome from candidates who are ready to take ownership of financial leadership and contribute to the ongoing success of our trust.
For an informal chat about the role, you can get in touch with Amanda Leader – Head of Finance on 01768 807770

To apply 
Complete an application form HR - Job Application Form Trust 2025.docx and return to:
amanda.leader@thegoodshepherdmat.co.uk

Application deadline: Monday 30th March 2026 at 12 noon 
Interview date:  Wednesday 8th April 2026

We’re proud to be the Diocese of Carlisle’s Multi Academy Trust.