Management Accountant

Management Accountant Location: Central Trust Hub (Cuckfield) with some travel to our academies Salary: Grade L £45,091 - £47,181 FTE (actual starting salary £36,560.27 - £38,254.86) Contract: 30 hours per week (Permanent, All Year Round) Flexible Working: Some flexibility to work more in term time and less in holidays. The Role Are you a finance professional who balances technical rigour with a people-first approach? We are seeking a proactive Management Accountant to join our Central Finance team. As a senior member of the finance team, you will support the CFO in the delivery of the Trust’s finance strategy and related activities. You will also be the lead financial partner for designated academies. You will ensure that Headteachers and Local Governing Bodies have the high-quality data and professional advice they need to drive their schools forward. Key Responsibilities Financial Reporting: Produce accurate monthly management accounts and detailed variance analysis to facilitate informed decision-making. Budgeting & Strategy: Lead on draft budget preparation and financial forecasting. Consultancy: Act as the key contact for Headteachers for budget management and financial activity. Process Improvement: Continuously seek ways to streamline internal operations and maximise efficiency across the Trust. Liaison: Proactively develop positive relationships with key stakeholders.  Experience & Qualifications Qualified: You hold a Professional Accountancy Qualification or possess equivalent high-level experience. Proven Track Record: You have significant experience in budget setting, financial monitoring, and complex data manipulation using accounting software. Sector experience: While experience in a school or academy setting is desirable, the ability to produce clear, accurate, and well-formatted financial documents is essential. Technical Proficiency: High-level IT skills and the ability to work without direct supervision is essential. About you Integrity & Diplomacy: You handle sensitive information with confidentiality and act with professionalism. Collaborative Spirit: A true team player who is flexible enough to assist the wider central team. Communication Expert: You have the interpersonal skills to influence senior leaders and the written skills to produce high-standard reports. Pragmatic Thinker: You possess a systems-based approach but can apply professional judgement and pragmatism when needed. Why Sussex Learning Trust? In return for your hard work and commitment to our communities, we offer: A High-Impact Culture: A forward-thinking, supportive environment where you have the space to shine. Flexibility: We recognise your life outside of work and offer some flexibility in how you achieve success. Purpose: The chance to directly influence the educational experience and future o