Job Description

Alpha Schools are currently looking for a

Financial Reporting Accountant

to join our Head Office in High Wycombe.

About Alpha Schools

Founded in 2003, Alpha Schools has quietly grown to be one of the largest operators of independent schools in the UK. We aim to encourage intellectual curiosity and productive learning habits in both our students and staff.

About the Role and You

Contract type

: Permanent, full-time, office-based

Salary

: 45-55k per annum, based on experience

Start date

: Immediate start available

This role reports directly to the CFO and will lead financial control, audit coordination, and technical accounting. This role plays a critical part in driving process efficiency, system improvements, and supporting operational transformation projects through optimising technology, streamlining processes, and leading change initiatives.

Financial Reporting

Oversee full transactional finance operations and deliver monthly, quarterly and annual financial reporting, ensuring accuracy and compliance with relevant accounting standards. Manage statutory reporting for all legal entities within the group, and preparation of consolidated financial statements for internal and external stakeholders. Manage risk and improve the cash operating cycle through enforcing policies on purchasing, expenses, and credit control and lead the short-term cash flow forecasting.

Financial Control & Governance

Lead and continuously improve a strong financial control environment, driving process efficiency, automation and best practice policies across the group. Oversee balance sheet integrity and risk management, including reconciliations and provisioning (e.g., bad debts, accruals). Manage the audit process, acting as a key point of contact for external auditors.

Process Improvement & Systems

Act as the Finance Operations lead for company-wide projects, providing subject-matter expertise. Drive automation and efficiency improvements in reporting processes, using financial systems and tools (e.g., ERP, consolidation systems). Any other duties as directed by the CFO.

Management & Leadership

Work with the team of Finance Assistants and Controllers in each school in a matrix structure (~19 schools) to ensure group-wide alignment on controls and reporting standards. Partner with FP&A to help deliver timely and accurate reporting to the Board and senior stakeholders. Occasional travel within the UK to schools may be required.

Skills, Experience & Behaviours Required:

Qualified accountant (ACA, ACCA, or CIMA), with strong post-qualification experience in a senior finance role. Strong technical knowledge of IFRS and UK GAAP. High proficiency in financial systems (e.g., ERP, consolidation tools) and Excel. Strong analytical, communication, and stakeholder management skills. Experience in group financial reporting, controls, and compliance in a multi-entity environment. Experience leading audits and working with external auditors. Demonstrated leadership and team management capabilities. A positive attitude, an eagerness to learn on the job, act on own initiative and continuously improve processes and outputs. A collaborative nature with the ability to work as part of a team, in person and in satellite offices. Ability to prioritise workload and work to deadlines Hands-on, proactive, and solutions-driven approach.

Why Join Us?

Professional Growth

: We value your development and offer opportunities for continuous learning.

Collaborative Environment

: Join a team of dedicated professionals who are committed to maintaining the highest standards of compliance.

Competitive Compensation

: We offer a competitive salary and benefits package, reflecting your skills and experience.

Innovation and impact

: Join a forward-thinking organisation where your ideas and contributions truly matter.

Alpha Schools is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children. Applicants for ALL jobs will undergo appropriate child-protection screening including checks with past employers and the Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check to enhanced level, with costs covered by the company. This role is exempt from the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 and the Amendments to the Exceptions Order 1975, 2013 and 2020. All candidates applying for this role must have obtained the right to work and live in the UK. Documented evidence of eligibility will be required from candidates as part of the recruitment process.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: 45,000.00-55,000.00 per year

Benefits:

Company pension Health & wellbeing programme On-site parking Referral programme Sick pay
Ability to commute/relocate:

High Wycombe: reliably commute or plan to relocate before starting work (preferred)
Experience:

Finance : 2 years (preferred)
Work authorisation:

United Kingdom (required)
Work Location: In person