<p><strong>Finance Director</strong></p><p><strong>Midsomer Norton Schools Partnership Trust (MNSP)</strong><br /> <strong>Location:</strong> Midsomer Norton<br /> <strong>Salary:</strong> £90,000 - £110,000 + wider benefits</p><p><strong>Join one of the South West's most successful and fastest-growing Multi-Academy Trusts</strong></p><p>Midsomer Norton Schools Partnership Trust (MNSP) is entering an exciting phase. Already responsible for <strong>36 schools</strong>, with <strong>strong predicted growth in the next 12-18 months</strong>- they are a high-performing and rapidly expanding Trust with a strong reputation for school improvement, financial strength and educational excellence.</p><p>With a <strong>£150m+ turnover</strong>, and a clear commitment to supporting 3000 staff and improving outcomes for pupils, they are seeking an exceptional <strong>Finance Director </strong>to lead their finance function into the next stage of organisational growth.</p><p>Reporting to the <strong>Chief Operating Officer</strong>, you will provide strategic leadership, assurance and financial stewardship at the highest level - ensuring resources are used effectively to deliver the very best outcomes for children across the Trust.</p><p><strong>The Opportunity</strong></p><p>This is a rare and career-defining role for a senior finance leader who wants to make a genuine difference in public education. You will:</p><p><strong>Lead at Scale and Influence Trust-Wide Strategy</strong></p><ul><li>Shape and deliver the Trust's <strong>multi-year financial strategy</strong>, investment plans and capital priorities.</li><li>Provide clear analysis, advice and constructive challenge to senior leaders, the CEO and Trustees.</li><li>Play a pivotal role in driving financial sustainability during a period of significant growth.</li></ul><p><strong>Ensure Rigorous Governance, Controls and Compliance</strong></p><ul><li>Lead internal controls, audit, external scrutiny and statutory reporting - including DfE returns and preparation of financial statements.</li><li>Maintain full compliance with the Academies Handbook, Companies House and financial regulation.</li></ul><p><strong>Drive Financial Excellence Across the Trust</strong></p><ul><li>Oversee monthly management accounts, budgeting, forecasting and KPI reporting.</li><li>Manage reserves and cashflow, recommending investment options to maximise returns.</li><li>Lead procurement strategy and ensure best value across all schools.</li></ul><p><strong>Play a Key Role in Due Diligence & Growth</strong></p><ul><li>Lead financial due diligence for incoming schools and support seamless onboarding.</li></ul><p><strong>Develop and Lead a High-Performing Finance Function</strong></p><p>You will manage a team of 2<strong>5</strong><strong> staff</strong>, including:</p><ul><li>Management Accountants</li><li>Accounts Payable/Receivable teams</li><li>Payroll</li></ul><p>With some staff school-based, you'll ensure strong capacity, clear processes, and professional excellence across multiple sites.</p><p><strong>Why Join MNSP?</strong></p><ul><li>A <strong>financially strong</strong>, well-run and respected Trust with outstanding school improvement capability.</li><li>A leadership culture focused on <strong>outcomes, not bureaucracy - </strong>lean, agile and impactful.</li><li>Significant opportunity to <strong>shape the strategic future</strong> of a large and growing educational organisation.</li><li>A chance to make a profound difference to children's lives across the South West.</li></ul><p><strong>What They're Looking For</strong></p><p><strong>Essential</strong></p><ul><li>Fully qualified accountant (ACA, ACCA, CIMA, CIPFA).</li><li>Successful track record in senior financial leadership within a complex, multi-site organisation.</li><li>Strong experience in audit, financial reporting, and leading high-performing finance teams.</li><li>Ability to translate strategy into robust financial models, budgets and operational plans.</li><li>Excellent communication, influence and interpersonal skills - comfortable working with school leaders, teachers and Trustees.</li><li>Deep commitment to integrity, public value and improving outcomes for children.</li></ul><p><strong>Highly Desirable</strong></p><ul><li>Experience within a Multi-Academy Trust or public-sector organisation.</li><li>Up-to-date knowledge of the Academies Handbook and MAT finance regulation.</li><li>Experience in capital bids, capital project oversight, risk management and onboarding new academies.</li></ul><p><strong>Benefits</strong></p><ul><li>£90,000 - £110,000</li><li>Government Pension Scheme</li><li>26 days' holiday + bank holidays (rising to 31 after 5 years' service)</li><li>Blue Light Card - offering savings on shopping, travel and leisure</li><li>Cycle-to-Work Scheme</li><li>Free Eye Tests</li><li>EAP Scheme</li></ul><p>Robert Half Ltd acts as an employment business for temporary positions and an employment agency for permanent positions. Robert Half is committed to diversity, equity and inclusion. Suitable candidates with equivalent qualifications and more or less experience can apply. Rates of pay and salary ranges are dependent upon your experience, qualifications and training. If you wish to apply, please read our Privacy Notice describing how we may process, disclose and store your personal data: roberthalf.com/gb/en/privacy-notice.</p><img src="https://counter.adcourier.com/Q2hhcmxvdHRlLkJvc2hlci45NzE2MC4xMDkyM0ByaGkuYXBsaXRyYWsuY29t.gif">
<p data-start="47" data-end="397">We're looking for an IT Risk & Compliance Manager to identify, assess, and mitigate risks across information systems and applications. This role will ensure strong IT governance, compliance with regulatory and industry standards, and the continuous improvement of risk management and assurance practices.</p><p data-start="399" data-end="425"><strong data-end="423" data-start="399">Key Responsibilities</strong></p><p data-end="460" data-start="427"><strong data-end="458" data-start="427">Information Risk Management</strong></p><ul><li>Identify, assess, and manage IT risks across areas such as data protection, secure-by-design, project and lifecycle management, applications, infrastructure, and networks.</li><li>Own and maintain the IT risk register, ensuring clear mitigation and treatment plans.</li><li>Establish or align to risk management frameworks, monitor key risk indicators, and drive corrective actions.</li><li>Ensure alignment with relevant industry standards, policies, and regulations.</li><li>Provide expert guidance to stakeholders on IT risk, governance, and compliance throughout the change lifecycle.</li><li>Lead risk awareness training, workshops, and communications to promote a strong risk culture.</li></ul><p data-start="1135" data-end="1161"><strong data-start="1135" data-end="1159">IT Audit & Assurance</strong></p><ul><li>Act as the primary contact for IT audits and assurance activities.</li><li>Scope and coordinate IT audits, manage fieldwork, and oversee responses to findings.</li><li>Track, report, and follow up on audit actions to ensure timely and effective remediation.</li></ul><p data-end="1440" data-start="1415"><strong data-end="1438" data-start="1415">Skills & Experience</strong></p><ul><li>Significant experience in IT risk management, security governance, audit, and compliance roles.</li><li>Strong knowledge of frameworks and standards such as ISO 27001/2, NIST, COBIT, CIS Controls, GDPR, and PCI-DSS.</li><li>Experience leading IT risk and compliance assessments and developing policies, processes, and procedures.</li><li>Good understanding of security risk management, vulnerability management, and modern IT and cyber security practices.</li><li>Strong communication and stakeholder management skills, with the ability to influence at all levels.</li><li>Broad technical exposure to IT applications, infrastructure, and systems delivery and support.</li><li>Background spanning multiple industries is highly desirable.</li></ul><p data-start="2157" data-end="2177"><strong data-start="2157" data-end="2175">Qualifications</strong></p><ul data-end="2427" data-is-last-node="" data-is-only-node="" data-start="2400"><li>Degree in IT, Computer Science, Engineering, Information Security, or equivalent.</li><li>Relevant professional certification in IT risk, security, or governance (e.g. ISO 27001, NIST, COBIT)</li></ul><p>Hybrid working available.</p><p>Robert Half Ltd acts as an employment business for temporary positions and an employment agency for permanent positions. Robert Half is committed to diversity, equity and inclusion. Suitable candidates with equivalent qualifications and more or less experience can apply. Rates of pay and salary ranges are dependent upon your experience, qualifications and training. If you wish to apply, please read our Privacy Notice describing how we may process, disclose and store your personal data: roberthalf.com/gb/en/privacy-notice.</p><img src="https://counter.adcourier.com/RmF6Lk5hbmRvby4zNjMwMi4xMDkyM0ByaGkuYXBsaXRyYWsuY29t.gif">
<p>Robert Half are working with a growing design and manufacturing business in North Somerset to recruit an IT Manager on a permanent basis. This is an ideal role for a strong Senior IT Engineer or someone early into their IT Management journey looking to develop their career and take on additional responsibility. <br /><strong><br />Role purpose:</strong><br /><br />A hands-on standalone IT Manager role, responsible for day-to-day IT delivery, system reliability, security, and continuous improvement across the business. You will be the primary technical expert, working closely with senior leadership and operational teams across production, warehouse, print, and office environments. You will own delivery, control suppliers, have authority to standardise systems, be accountable for risk, uptime and security.</p><p><strong>Key responsibilities:<br /><br /></strong><strong>IT Operations</strong><br />* Own day-to-day IT operations across the business.<br />* Ensure systems are secure, resilient, and fit for purpose.<br />* Act as the escalation point for complex technical issues.<br />* Maintain IT policies, documentation, and standards.</p><p><strong>Infrastructure & Systems</strong><br />* Manage on-site and cloud infrastructure (servers, networks, firewalls, backups).<br />* Oversee Microsoft 365, Azure/Entra ID, identity and access controls.<br />* Maintain business continuity, backup, and disaster recovery arrangements.</p><p><strong>Security & Compliance</strong><br />* Manage cybersecurity risks, patching, endpoint protection, and firewalls.<br />* Support compliance with GDPR and recognised security standards.<br />* Promote good security awareness across the business.</p><p><strong>Business Systems & ERP</strong><br />* Support and maintain ERP and core Finance Systems<br />* Ensure ERP systems support warehouse, production, and finance workflows.<br />* Support handheld scanners and warehouse technology.</p><p><strong>Stakeholder & Supplier Management</strong><br />* Work with department managers to understand IT needs.<br />* Manage third-party suppliers and support contracts.<br />* Translate technical issues into clear business impacts.</p><p><strong>Experience / Skills:</strong></p><ul><li>Proven experience in a senior IT role (IT Manager, Senior Engineer, Lead IT).</li><li>Strong documentation and communication skills.</li><li>Strong Microsoft stack knowledge:</li><ul><li>Windows Server, Active Directory, Group Policy.</li><li>Microsoft 365, Azure/Entra ID, MFA, security controls.</li></ul><li>Networking experience (firewalls, switches, VLANs, VPNs).</li><li>Virtualisation (VMware or Hyper-V).</li><li>Backup and disaster recovery solutions.</li><li>ERP support experience (Business Central and/or OrderWise preferred).</li><li>Calm, structured approach to fault-finding and incident response.</li></ul><p><strong>Salary/Logistics:</strong></p><ul><li>£45,000 - £50,000 per annum </li><li>This role is to be based on site in Cheddar, North Somerset - please only apply if you can commit to this. </li></ul><p> </p><p>Robert Half Ltd acts as an employment business for temporary positions and an employment agency for permanent positions. Robert Half is committed to diversity, equity and inclusion. Suitable candidates with equivalent qualifications and more or less experience can apply. Rates of pay and salary ranges are dependent upon your experience, qualifications and training. If you wish to apply, please read our Privacy Notice describing how we may process, disclose and store your personal data: roberthalf.com/gb/en/privacy-notice.</p><img src="https://counter.adcourier.com/Um9yeS5LaXJrbWFuLjMxOTM4LjEwOTIzQHJoaS5hcGxpdHJhay5jb20.gif">
<p data-start="171" data-end="486">We're looking for an IT Risk & Compliance Analyst to join our team and help strengthen how IT risks are identified, assessed, and managed across the organisation. You'll work closely with technical specialists and business stakeholders to ensure technology risks are clearly understood, monitored, and addressed.</p><p data-start="488" data-end="506"><strong data-start="488" data-end="506">What you'll do</strong></p><ul><li>Support IT risk assessments and facilitate risk review sessions with stakeholders</li><li>Maintain and update IT risk registers and track ongoing risk exposure</li><li>Analyse risk scenarios and contribute to clear, actionable risk reporting</li><li>Recommend proportionate and cost-effective controls to reduce IT risk</li><li>Collect, challenge, and report on key risk indicators</li><li>Prepare risk updates for governance forums and committees</li><li>Track and report IT risk events and emerging issues</li><li>Support programmes and agile teams by identifying risks linked to IT change</li><li>Help maintain risk processes, guidance, and training materials</li></ul><p data-end="1164" data-start="1143"><strong data-start="1143" data-end="1164">What you'll bring</strong></p><ul><li>A solid understanding of IT systems, processes, and controls</li><li>The ability to explain technical risk topics clearly to both technical and non-technical audiences</li><li>Strong analytical skills with attention to detail and an ability to see wider impacts</li><li>Confidence working with data to support risk analysis and decision-making</li><li>A collaborative mindset with the ability to work independently when required</li><li>A customer-focused approach and strong communication skills</li></ul><p data-end="1671" data-start="1647"><strong data-start="1647" data-end="1671">Desirable experience</strong></p><ul><li>Exposure to highly regulated environments</li><li>Familiarity with recognised frameworks such as COBIT, ITIL, ISO 27001, or NIST</li><li>Experience working with auditors or formal assurance activities</li><li>Knowledge of quantitative risk methods such as FAIR</li></ul><p data-start="1945" data-end="1963"><strong data-start="1945" data-end="1963">Qualifications</strong></p><ul><li>Degree in IT, Computer Science, Engineering, Information Security, or a related discipline</li><li>Practical experience performing IT or cyber risk analysis</li><li>Relevant risk or security certifications are an advantage</li></ul><p>Robert Half Ltd acts as an employment business for temporary positions and an employment agency for permanent positions. Robert Half is committed to diversity, equity and inclusion. Suitable candidates with equivalent qualifications and more or less experience can apply. Rates of pay and salary ranges are dependent upon your experience, qualifications and training. If you wish to apply, please read our Privacy Notice describing how we may process, disclose and store your personal data: roberthalf.com/gb/en/privacy-notice.</p><img src="https://counter.adcourier.com/RmF6Lk5hbmRvby41NzUyMC4xMDkyM0ByaGkuYXBsaXRyYWsuY29t.gif">
<p><strong>Head of Finance</strong></p><p>Robert Half Finance & Accounting is working with a growing organisation based in Gloucestershire to appoint a <strong>Head of Finance</strong> - an ideal opportunity for an experienced <strong>Finance Manager</strong> looking to step into a broader, more influential leadership role.</p><p>Reporting to a senior finance leader, this role offers full ownership of financial reporting, budgeting, forecasting, and business partnering, while leading a small, established finance team. You'll work closely with senior stakeholders, providing insight, challenge, and commercial support across both operational and growth-focused areas of the organisation.</p><p>This is a hands-on position that blends strategic input with day-to-day financial leadership, perfect for someone ready to move beyond pure reporting into a wider business-facing role.</p><p> </p><p><strong>Key Highlights</strong></p><ul><li>Lead monthly management accounts, forecasting, and budgeting</li><li>Manage and develop a small finance team</li><li>Act as a finance business partner to senior leaders and operational teams</li><li>Support commercial decision-making, pricing, and performance analysis</li><li>Oversee audit, VAT, payroll accuracy, and core financial controls</li><li>Drive improvements in systems, processes, and reporting</li><li>Take ownership of year-end audit, statutory reporting, and tax compliance in line with group requirements</li><li>Provide cashflow analysis and forecasting to support effective financial planning and control</li><li>Play a key role in capital expenditure oversight and long-term financial planning during a period of growth and investment</li></ul><p> </p><p><strong>About You</strong></p><ul><li>Qualified accountant (ACA / ACCA / CIMA or equivalent)</li><li>Currently operating as a Finance Manager or in a similar hands-on role</li><li>Comfortable owning the numbers while engaging with non-finance stakeholders</li><li>Strong Excel and finance systems capability</li><li>Commercially minded, proactive, and ready for increased responsibility</li></ul><p> </p><p><strong>Package</strong></p><ul><li>Up to £75,000 based on experience</li><li>Hybrid remote working</li><li>Pension and a strong benefits package</li><li>Long-term career development in a growing organisation</li></ul><p>Robert Half Ltd acts as an employment business for temporary positions and an employment agency for permanent positions. Robert Half is committed to diversity, equity and inclusion. Suitable candidates with equivalent qualifications and more or less experience can apply. Rates of pay and salary ranges are dependent upon your experience, qualifications and training. If you wish to apply, please read our Privacy Notice describing how we may process, disclose and store your personal data: roberthalf.com/gb/en/privacy-notice.</p><img src="https://counter.adcourier.com/VG9tLk1vcmdhbi41NTYzOS4xMDkyM0ByaGkuYXBsaXRyYWsuY29t.gif">
<p>Financial Accountant - Global Manufacturing Organisation<br />Salary: £40,000<br />Location: Cardiff<br />Hybrid: 4 days office / 1 day home<br />Recruiting via Robert Half</p><p><br />Robert Half is delighted to be partnering with a leading global manufacturing organisation to recruit a talented Financial Accountant. This is a fantastic opportunity to join a business with a strong international footprint, a collaborative culture, and a commitment to developing its people.<br />If you're commercially minded, analytically strong, and eager to make an impact, this role offers the perfect platform to grow your career.</p><p>🌟 Main Purpose of the Role<br />The Financial Accountant will play a key role in supporting managers across the business by providing high‑quality financial insight. You'll help drive better decision‑making, improve operational efficiency, and contribute to the organisation's growth through accurate reporting, forecasting, and financial analysis.</p><p>📌 Key Responsibilities<br />* Analyse current and historical trends across key performance indicators, including revenue, cost of sales, expenses, and capital expenditure<br />* Act as a key contributor to the month‑end close process<br />* Support trade compliance and reporting activities<br />* Assist the Finance Manager with VAT return preparation and ensure full compliance with tax reporting requirements<br />* Take full ownership of cash flow forecasting and reporting<br />* Conduct detailed overhead analysis<br />* Manage accruals and prepayments<br />* Oversee lease accounting<br />* Produce warranty reporting<br />* Monitor performance indicators, highlight trends, and investigate variances<br />* Support and mentor junior accountants<br />* Implement and utilise Business Intelligence tools and dashboard reporting<br />* Develop financial models and analysis to support strategic initiatives<br />* Interpret complex financial information to provide timely, accurate recommendations for management<br />* Deliver ad‑hoc reporting and analysis<br />* Support internal and external audit processes<br />* Assist with divisional reporting, including stat packs and tax packs<br />* Support payroll reporting, including P11D preparation and submission</p><p>🎯 Ideal Candidate Profile<br />* ACA, ACCA, CIMA qualified, part‑qualified, or QBE<br />* Strong analytical skills with excellent attention to detail<br />* Confident communicator able to partner effectively with stakeholders<br />* Experience within manufacturing is beneficial but not essential<br />* Proactive, curious, and committed to continuous improvement</p><p>Robert Half Ltd acts as an employment business for temporary positions and an employment agency for permanent positions. Robert Half is committed to diversity, equity and inclusion. Suitable candidates with equivalent qualifications and more or less experience can apply. Rates of pay and salary ranges are dependent upon your experience, qualifications and training. If you wish to apply, please read our Privacy Notice describing how we may process, disclose and store your personal data: roberthalf.com/gb/en/privacy-notice.</p><img src="https://counter.adcourier.com/R2F2aW4uV2lsbGlhbXMuNDQ5NTQuMTA5MjNAcmhpLmFwbGl0cmFrLmNvbQ.gif">
<p></p><p>This is an excellent opportunity for an experienced HR professional to join a supportive and forward‑thinking organisation. As an <strong>HR Advisor</strong>, you will play a key role in delivering effective HR support across the business, providing guidance to managers, supporting employee relations, and contributing to the continuous improvement of HR processes and practices.</p><p>If you enjoy a varied generalist role, thrive in a people‑focused environment, and are confident advising stakeholders at all levels, this position offers strong development potential and a stable, collaborative working culture.</p><p><strong>Key Responsibilities</strong></p><p><strong>HR Operations & Advisory</strong></p><ul><li>Provide comprehensive advice on HR policies, procedures, and best practice</li><li>Support and lead formal meetings including disciplinaries, grievances, and flexible working requests</li><li>Advise managers on employee relations matters and effective people management</li><li>Create, implement, and administer HR policies</li><li>Support managers in getting the best performance from their teams</li></ul><p><strong>Recruitment & Onboarding</strong></p><ul><li>Prepare job adverts and manage the application and shortlisting process</li><li>Review CVs, conduct interviews, and support candidate selection</li><li>Provide hiring managers with new starter documentation</li><li>Ensure a smooth and positive onboarding experience for new employees</li><li>Offer proactive recruitment support across the business</li></ul><p><strong>Data, Reporting & Compliance</strong></p><ul><li>Report HR data and track key KPIs</li><li>Collate information for board reporting, including monthly successes</li><li>Maintain accurate HR documentation and ensure compliance with employment legislation</li><li>Support external audits and internal reviews as required</li></ul><p><strong>HR Projects & Continuous Improvement</strong></p><ul><li>Contribute to the ongoing improvement of HR systems, processes, and policies</li><li>Support and participate in key HR initiatives and business‑wide projects</li><li>Identify opportunities to enhance existing HR practices</li><li>Provide cover for the HR Manager during periods of absence</li></ul><p><strong>Skills & Experience Required</strong></p><ul><li>Strong HR generalist experience with good knowledge of UK employment law and case law, or a proactive desire to develop this knowledge</li><li>Proven ability to build strong working relationships with stakeholders at all levels</li><li>Confident working independently and using initiative</li><li>Excellent organisational skills and attention to detail</li><li>Strong communication skills and the ability to handle sensitive matters professionally</li></ul><p><strong>Benefits</strong></p><ul><li>25 days holiday + bank holidays (increasing with service to a maximum of 30 days)</li><li>Private medical cover</li><li>Life cover at 4× salary</li><li>Employee Assistance Programme</li><li>Access to a digital online GP service</li><li>Free onsite parking</li><li>3 volunteering days per year</li></ul><p> </p><p> </p><p>Robert Half Ltd acts as an employment business for temporary positions and an employment agency for permanent positions. Robert Half is committed to diversity, equity and inclusion. Suitable candidates with equivalent qualifications and more or less experience can apply. Rates of pay and salary ranges are dependent upon your experience, qualifications and training. If you wish to apply, please read our Privacy Notice describing how we may process, disclose and store your personal data: roberthalf.com/gb/en/privacy-notice.</p><img src="https://counter.adcourier.com/R2F2aW4uV2lsbGlhbXMuNjE2NzIuMTA5MjNAcmhpLmFwbGl0cmFrLmNvbQ.gif">