Director of Finance and Operations

Finton House is an outstanding independent non-selective prep school for 340 boys and girls aged 4-11. Located near Wandsworth Common in South West London, the founding principles of the school are that there should be no academic selection for entry into Reception and the provision of an inclusive environment where all children, including those with special educational needs, have the same opportunities. The school motto of “Open Hearts and Guiding Hands” engenders a very special ethos. Finton is thriving with a full pupil roll and a healthy financial position.

The Governors and Headmaster are seeking to appoint a highly motivated, dynamic and financially astute individual to the post of Director of Finance and Operations (DFO). This is an exciting opportunity to play a pivotal role in the continued success and development of this ambitious independent school.

Reporting to the Headmaster, the DFO is a critical member of the Senior Leadership Team and will help shape and deliver the school’s strategic vision. They will provide strong leadership to a diverse team of finance and operations staff and areas of responsibility include finance, buildings and facilities, IT, health and safety, catering, transport and commercial activities. The DFO role is wide ranging, stimulating, and rewarding.

The successful candidate will be an individual with proven leadership ability; a strategic thinker who possesses outstanding interpersonal and communication skills. Whilst a formal accounting qualification is not required, excellent financial acumen and robust commercial judgement will be essential, as will an ability to establish highly effective, collaborative working relationships with the Headmaster, Governors and colleagues at all levels. 

Prior experience in the education sector is not a prerequisite and applications are encouraged from a broad range of sectors. The successful candidate will, however, demonstrate empathy with independent education and commitment to Finton House’s ethos and values.

For further information about the role and details of how to apply please visit: www.rsacademics.com   

Interested candidates are invited to contact RSAcademics to arrange an informal and confidential discussion about the role:  

Susannah Thompson: susannahthompson@rsacademics.com

Nina Lambert: ninalambert@rsacademics.com

 The closing date for applications is 10.00am on Wednesday 29th January 2025.  

Finton House is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. Applicants must be willing to undergo child protection screening appropriate to the post, including checks with past employers and the Disclosure and Barring Service.  

This post is exempt from the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 and the amendments to the Exceptions Order 1975, 2013 and 2020.   

The safeguarding responsibilities of the role are indicated in the candidate information.   

RSAcademics is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and to promoting diversity and inclusion in schools.