Schools of Tomorrow

Schools of Tomorrow

Organisation Description

Schools of Tomorrow is a community interest company (CIC). Established in 2013, by and for school leaders, we work together as a support network of schools to achieve better outcomes and shape a better future for our young people by engaging with the communities in which we work.
Our members are schools and school leaders committed to the idea that the most effective schools are those that combine academic attainment with involvement at the heart of their communities and a broader shared vision of quality and purpose.
Our vision: Schools and communities can change one another for the better. Working together, they can radically transform the futures of young people.
Our mission: To shape a better future working together by:
• Bringing together ambitious, creative and determined educationalists
• Creating communities of schools collaborating to shape a better future
• Developing inquiry methodology to find solution-based approaches
• Defining and implementing a model of leadership that is authentic, inspired and dynamic
• Bringing together children and young people to develop mindset, skills, agency and attributes to thrive and impact positively on their future and the future of others.
The organisation is governed by a council elected by our members, who are drawn from all sectors of education and from around the UK and in Europe. The council in turn appoint directors to act on their behalf and to support our small staff team to implement a dynamic range of programmes.
As we now embark on a period of growth and expansion, we wish to strengthen our volunteer Board by appointing our first Finance Director.

What are they looking for?

Reports To: Managing Director and the Chair of Council Term: 3 years renewable Commitment: 6 – 10 hours a month including six board meetings a year, mostly online. Role Overview: The Finance Director is a member of our executive board acting on behalf of the member council. The board are all volunteers but may be paid an honorarium for additional responsibilities. The Finance Director plays a crucial role in ensuring the financial stability and integrity of Schools of Tomorrow. They oversee our financial strategy, ensure robust financial management, and provide financial guidance to support our mission and objectives. Key Responsibilities: 1. Financial Oversight: - Prepare and monitor the company’s financial statements, budgets, and financial plans. - Ensure that financial records are accurate, transparent, and comply with legal requirements. - Oversee the preparation and presentation of financial reports to the Board - Approve payments online as needed 2. Strategic Planning: - Contribute to the development of our strategic plan. - Ensure financial considerations are integrated into strategic decision-making. 3. Risk Management: - Identify and help manage financial risks. - Ensure the company has appropriate financial controls and procedures in place. 4. Compliance and Governance: - Ensure compliance with relevant financial legislation and regulations. - Ensure the company meets its obligations in relation to financial reporting and auditing. - Act as a liaison with accountants during annual audits. 5. Support and Advice: - Provide financial guidance and support to the Board, member council and staff. - Advise on financial implications of strategic and operational decisions. 6. Fundraising and Resource Management: - Assist in the development and implementation of fundraising strategies. - Ensure the effective and efficient use of the company’s financial resources. Skills and Qualifications: - Professional Background: Experience in finance, accounting, or a related field. Relevant qualifications (e.g., ACA, ACCA, CIMA) are highly desirable. - Knowledge: Understanding of charity and social enterprise finance and regulatory requirements. - Analytical Skills: Strong analytical and problem-solving skills. - Communication: Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to present financial information clearly. - Integrity: High ethical standards and a commitment to the organisation’s values and mission. - Experience: Previous experience in a trustee or non-executive role in the charity or not-for-profit sector is beneficial but not essential. Personal Attributes: - Commitment to our mission and values. - Strategic thinker with the ability to contribute to long-term planning. - Collaborative approach, able to work effectively as part of a team. - Attention to detail and a proactive attitude. Benefits: - Opportunity to make a significant impact on our work improving the life chances of young people. - Professional development and networking opportunities. - Reimbursement of travel and any other necessary expenses incurred in the role.