Schools Finance Officer

In line with our One Coventry Values, we want to ensure that our communities are represented across our workforce. A vital part of this is ensuring we are a truly inclusive organisation that encourages diversity in all respects, including diversity of thinking. We particularly welcome applicants from minority ethnic, LGBT+, disabled and neurodiverse communities to make a real difference to our residents so that equity and respect remains at the heart of everything we do.

Our Values are:

• Open and fair: We are fair, open, and transparent.
• Nurture and develop: We help and encourage everyone to be their best and do their best.
• Engage and empower: We talk and listen to others, working together as one.
• Create and innovate: We embrace new ways of working to continuously improve.
• Own and be accountable: We work together to deliver the best services for our residents.
• Value and respect: We put diversity and inclusion at the heart of all we do.

We value diverse perspectives and experiences and are striving to create a workplace culture that is inclusive, is accepting of all and is free from discrimination and bias.

We are a diverse and dynamic Financial Management Team responsible for providing a diverse range of functions to drive the Council to fulfil its transformational journey We deliver the full range of financial management and accounting services to facilitate effective delivery of services to support the people of Coventry and deliver projects which are redefining the infrastructure of the city.

Working flexibly with internal officers and external partners we aim to ensure finance is at the heart of everything that the Council does.

The organisation has a high expectation of our service, and we will continue to support and develop our staff to have the skills to deliver a quality service.

About the Team

Join our friendly, experienced and highly valued Schools Finance Team, where collaboration, support and professional development are at the heart of everything we do. We work closely with schools across Coventry, helping Headteachers, School Business Managers and Governors manage their finances effectively and make informed financial decisions.

This is an exciting opportunity to become part of a team that is respected for its expertise, trusted by schools and committed to delivering excellent financial support. You'll work alongside passionate colleagues who share knowledge, celebrate success and make a real difference every day.

What the Job Role Is

As a Schools Finance Officer, you'll be a trusted financial adviser to a portfolio of Coventry schools, helping school leaders manage their finances effectively and sustainably.

Working closely with Headteachers, School Business Managers and Governors, you'll provide expert advice and support throughout the annual financial cycle, helping schools develop realistic budgets, monitor spending, identify financial risks and plan for future challenges. Your role will be central to ensuring schools maintain strong financial management practices and remain financially resilient.

You'll analyse and interpret financial information, challenge assumptions where necessary, and provide practical solutions to support informed decision-making. From budget planning and forecasting to financial monitoring and reporting, you'll help schools understand their financial position and take action to maintain financial stability.

No two days are the same. You may be presenting financial information to school leaders, supporting governing body meetings, delivering financial training and working directly with schools to address emerging financial pressures and identify opportunities for efficiencies and savings.

This is a highly rewarding role where you'll build strong relationships with schools, become a trusted adviser and play a key role in helping schools remain financially secure, compliant and well managed.

All candidates must have the Right to Work in the UK. We are currently not offering sponsorship for this role.

Who We Are Looking For

We're looking for an enthusiastic, proactive and customer-focused finance professional who enjoys building relationships, solving problems and providing expert financial advice.

You will have a sound understanding of accounting principles and financial management practices, together with experience of working in a complex financial environment and supporting managers with their financial responsibilities. You'll be confident in analysing financial information, identifying financial risks and opportunities and providing clear, practical advice to support sound financial decision-making.

You will have excellent communication and interpersonal skills, enabling you to explain complex financial information clearly to both financial and non-financial audiences. Building productive relationships with Headteachers, School Business Managers, Governors and colleagues will be key to your success.

We are looking for someone who can effectively prioritise workloads, manage competing demands and work independently whilst maintaining high standards of customer service. You will be comfortable interpreting financial procedures, regulations and guidance and using your analytical and problem-solving skills to support schools in maintaining strong financial management and control.

You will also have:

• An understanding of accounting principles, practices and their application in financial management.
• Familiarity with computerised financial systems, spreadsheets and Microsoft Office applications.
• Knowledge of financial administration processes and procedures.
• Experience of working within a complex financial environment.
• Experience of supporting managers with budgeting, financial planning, forecasting and financial control responsibilities.
• Strong numerical, analytical and problem-solving skills.
• The ability to communicate complex financial information clearly and effectively, both verbally and in writing, to a variety of audiences.
• Excellent interpersonal skills and the ability to build and maintain positive professional relationships.
• Strong organisational skills with the ability to prioritise workloads and manage conflicting priorities.
• The ability to interpret and apply financial procedures, regulations and legislation.
• The ability to work independently, use initiative and deliver a high standard of customer service.
• An AAT qualification or equivalent experience gained within a similar finance role.

Most importantly, you'll share Coventry City Council's One Coventry values and be committed to delivering excellent services, embracing innovation and providing high-quality financial support to schools across the city.

Application Process

To apply, please complete the online application form and provide a supporting statement demonstrating how you meet the requirements of the role. Your supporting statement should clearly evidence your experience, skills, knowledge and qualifications against the criteria outlined in the Job Description and Person Specification.

We encourage applicants to provide specific examples that demonstrate their ability to fulfil the requirements of the role and how they meet the essential criteria.

Closing Date: 8 September 2026

Interview Date: Interviews will be held from 15 September 2026.

For an Informal Discussion

If you would like to find out more about this exciting opportunity, please contact:

Shyla Begum

Accountant
Schools Finance Team<