Job Description

Job Title

- Funding & Data Manager (Education)

Business Area -

Organisation wide

Contract Type

- Permanent

Working Pattern

- Full Time

Pay Scale

-37,960 - 43,680

Role Purpose

Funding & Data Manager (Education) will play a critical role in ensuring the financial sustainability and data integrity of our organisation. This position is responsible for managing complex Department for Education (DfE) funding streams, aligning finance and learner data processes, and delivering accurate, timely reporting to support strategic decision-making and growth targets.

This role is pivotal in securing and managing substantial DfE grants that underpin our vision and business model. By aligning finance and learner data processes, Funding & Data Manager (Education) will ensure the organisation meets its growth targets and delivers accurate, actionable insights to leadership.

Key Responsibilities

Finance & Funding Management

Oversee all aspects of DfE grant funding, ensuring compliance with regulations and accurate financial reporting. Manage the receipt and reconciliation of government grants through the DfE learner and data portal system. Support annual and projected business planning, incorporating growth performance indicators tied to learner numbers. Work closely with the College Accounting Manager to align financial processes with learner data systems.

Data & Reporting

Develop and maintain robust systems for learner data collection, validation, and reporting. Ensure finance and learner data processes are integrated and aligned for accurate forecasting and performance tracking. Produce timely, accurate reports for The Navigators Board, Governing Body, and senior leadership, enabling informed decision-making. Monitor key growth metrics and performance indicators, providing insights to support strategic objectives.

Compliance & Quality Assurance

Ensure adherence to DfE funding rules, audit requirements, and data quality standards. Implement controls to safeguard data integrity and financial accuracy

Collaboration & Leadership

Act as the primary liaison between finance, data teams, and operational departments. Provide training and guidance to staff on data and finance processes related to DfE funding.

Skills and Abilities

Analytical Thinking:

Ability to interpret complex financial and learner data, identify trends, and provide actionable insights.

Problem-Solving:

Skilled at resolving discrepancies between finance and learner data systems and implementing process improvements.

Technical Proficiency:

Competent in using DfE portals, MIS platforms, and advanced Excel functions (pivot tables, VLOOKUP, data validation).

Organisational Skills:

Capable of managing multiple priorities, deadlines, and reporting requirements simultaneously.

Attention to Detail:

Ensures accuracy in financial claims, learner records, and compliance documentation.

Communication:

Clear and concise reporting to senior stakeholders, with the ability to explain complex data in an accessible way.

Leadership:

Ability to influence and guide teams in adopting best practices for finance and data alignment.

Experience and Qualifications

Essential

Minimum 3-5 years' experience in finance or funding management within education or public sector. Demonstrated experience with DfE or ESFA funding systems and compliance requirements. Knowledge of ILR (Individualised Learner Record) processes and ESFA funding rules. Strong background in data management and reporting, ideally within a college or training provider setting. Proficiency in financial software and MIS platforms.

Desirable

Professional finance qualification (e.g., AAT, ACCA, CIMA) or equivalent experience. Experience in alternative education or specialist provision. Familiarity with strategic business planning and growth forecasting.

Behaviours and Attitudes

Empathy & Respect

Understands the challenges faced by learners, staff, and stakeholders, treating everyone with dignity and professionalism. Actively listens and responds with sensitivity, fostering positive relationships across the organisation.

Integrity & Honesty

Maintains the highest standards of accuracy and compliance in financial and data reporting. Communicates openly and transparently, promptly addressing discrepancies and providing realistic forecasts.

Resilience & Commitment

Remains focused and composed under pressure, adapting to changing DfE requirements and organisational priorities. Shows dedication to achieving growth targets and funding compliance, going the extra mile to deliver results.

Trust & Authenticity

Builds confidence with stakeholders by delivering reliable, timely, and accurate information. Represents the organisation's values in all interactions, ensuring clarity and fairness in complex funding and data matters

Declarations

We aim to create and maintain a safe environment and community where all young people and adults feel safe, secure and valued. We work hard to create strong relationships and show a commitment to safeguarding all young people.

Our work is classified as Regulated Activity as defined in the Safeguarding Vulnerable Groups Act 2006 (SVGA). This role will include regular contact with Children 121 or group setting. This includes those that could be classified as vulnerable and both an understanding of and experience in adhering to UK safeguarding legislation is required.

Further information relating to our Safeguarding, Child Protection, Ex-offender or Safer Recruitment policies are available upon request.

All applications are assessed on an individual basis in relation to the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act (ROA) 1974.

This post will require the successful candidate to complete our Disclosure Barring Service, Vulnerable Child and Adult register checks as well as reference checks. We may also carry out additional online searches such as social media as part of the selection process.

Job Types: Full-time, Permanent

Pay: 37,960.00-43,680.00 per year

Benefits:

Company pension On-site parking
Work Location: In person