Job Description

Required for March 2026
We are seeking to appoint a suitably qualified, experienced, and motivated individual to take up the post of Finance Manager who has a deep understanding of school-specific finance and has a strong proficiency in managing large, complex budgets, including payroll, accounts payable/receivable and annual statutory returns.
This role will support the School Business Manager in all aspects of financial processes. The successful candidate will have a positive and flexible approach while managing a diverse and demanding workload and will be highly motivated, enthusiastic, analytical, and innovative. Schools are high-pressure environments, especially during budget season or audit periods. The ability to remain calm and focused under pressure is essential.
This is a fantastic opportunity to gain experience in your career in a well led school. Little Ilford is a friendly, inclusive and oversubscribed school in Newham making a big difference to the lives of our diverse student community. In October 2016, we moved into a brand new state-of-the-art building. We have a strong reputation and high expectations of both students and staff and consider this to be an exciting place to work and develop, where creativity and innovation are nurtured. Our targets for attainment and progress are challenging, but staff have the focus and determination to realise them for the benefit of our students. We really know our students, and focus on them as individuals. Pastoral systems are strong and we value a curriculum offer and activities that educate the whole child.
What Little Ilford can offer you -
Continued Professional Development

• commitment to ensuring that all staff have access to comprehensive professional development
• fully supported by The National College programme
• 1-1 coaching with external providers

Staff Benefits

• Good home/work balance
• Free use of an onsite gym
• Free weekly group cardio sessions
• Free weekly yoga classes
• Free spin sessions
• Onsite car/bike parking facilities
• Cycle scheme
• 24/7 access to Employee Assistance Programme including 6 free counselling sessions, if required
• 24/7 access to a Digital Wellbeing Platform

We are an aspirational, reflective and creative learning community where all adults are learners who take risks in order to achieve excellent results for our students.
The closing date is 11th January 2026. Please note - we will shortlist and interview as soon as we have a strong field. Candidates are advised to apply sooner rather than later.
We look forward to receiving your application.
To apply or obtain further information please visit our website or for an informal discussion contact Mehz Karim on 020 8928 3548 /email m.karim@littleilford.org
Little Ilford School, Rectory Road, Manor Park, London E12 6JB
The school is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. An enhanced DBS check is required for all sucessful candidates.
Equal Opportunities
The School has a strong commitment to achieving equality of opportunity in both services to the community and the employment of people and expects all employees to understand and promote its policies in their work.

Skills Required