Chief Finance and Operations Officer

One Excellence Multi Academy Trust is an ambitious and inclusive family of four schools, an English Hub and Durham SCITT. Since forming in 2017, we have grown into a vibrant organisation with a strong reputation for collaboration, innovation and high standards. Our vision—to be an ambitious, inclusive and collaborative family of schools, ensuring fullness of life and excellence in education—underpins everything we do. This is an exciting opportunity for an exceptional finance leader to join our Executive Leadership Team and shape the strategic direction of a growing, values‑driven Trust. The CFO will lead all financial and business operations across the Trust, including Finance, HR, Governance Support, Estates, IT, Marketing and Business Planning. You will ensure that our resources are used effectively, sustainably and creatively to deliver the best possible outcomes for children. This role is central to our future growth. You will work closely with the CEO and Board of Directors to develop long‑term financial strategy, strengthen operational excellence, and support the Trust’s ambition to expand its regional impact. The Role The CFO will provide visible, forward‑thinking leadership across all financial and business operations. Working closely with the CEO, Board of Directors and school leaders, you will ensure the Trust’s resources are used effectively to deliver the very best outcomes for children. You will lead on long‑term financial planning, risk management, estates strategy, income generation and continuous improvement across the Trust. About You You will be an experienced and influential senior finance professional who can bring strategic insight, strong analytical skills and a collaborative leadership style. You will have: A strong financial background, ideally with a recognised accounting qualification Experience operating at senior leadership level within a complex organisation A track record of delivering financial sustainability, innovation and improvement Expertise in multi‑year financial planning, risk management and compliance Understanding of academy finance, funding and regulatory frameworks Experience of estates strategy, income generation and business development Outstanding communication skills and the ability to influence at all levels A commitment to our values of ambition, inclusion and collaboration Why Join One Excellence? We are committed to investing in our people. As part of our Trust, you will benefit from: A comprehensive health and wellbeing programme, including physiotherapy, counselling, GP consultations and private medical procedures where required A strong culture of professional development, leadership growth and career progression The opportunity to shape a Trust with a clear vision, strong values and significant regional influence A supportive, collaborative Executive Team and Board The chance to make a meaningful difference to children, families and communities You w