Head of Finance

Central Team

Closing Date: 12 Noon 11th July 2025

Role: Head of Finance 
 
Contract Type: Permanent | Full time, full year (37 hours / week)  
 
Location: Church House, Penrith / Hybrid TBC 
 
Salary: SCP 12 47-54: £52,248 - £60K dependent on experience 
  
Are you an experienced financial leader, who wants to make a difference?  
Want to be part of something special, an opportunity to shape strategy, drive improvement and make an impact?  
 
About The Good Shepherd Trust  
The Good Shepherd Trust is a community of schools supported by a dedicated central team, united by a shared belief that every child should have access to an excellent education, regardless of background. We believe that education goes beyond academic achievement, and we’re committed to helping every pupil reach their full potential and embrace life in all its fullness.  
 
We’re investing in our central team and this is one of our new roles with a fantastic opportunity to drive forward our people and culture agenda in a supportive and welcoming environment.  Joining our collaborative central team, this is a great opportunity to feel part of a small but highly driven group of colleagues, dedicated to continual improvement and offering a support service for our school members that is second to none.    
 
What we’re looking for 
 
An exciting opportunity has arisen to join our purpose-driven organisation, at a time of growth and strategic development.  
 
We are looking for qualified and highly motivated Head of Finance, committed to the Good Shepherd Trust’s purpose, vision and offer. Strong People Leadership skills are essential.  Communication and collaboration skills are also essential to engage with stakeholders, while driving strategic initiatives to position the trust as a leader in financial management within the education sector.  
 
You will play a pivotal role in the trust’s growth plans and fostering a culture of financial sustainability and innovation. You’ll also focus on ensuring robust operational excellence across the trust, building a solid financial foundation based on strong controls and compliance measures.  
 
It’s a special time to join as we align our priorities to deliver the Good Shepherd Trust’s new vision and offer.  You’ll be supported by a welcoming, passionate and purpose-led team to help us create something special and make a real impact. 
  
Benefits  
Competitive salary and pension package  
25 days annual leave (plus 8 bank/public holidays)  
Opportunity for hybrid working  
Free flu vaccinations and eye tests  
Wide ranging health and wellbeing benefits provided by Education Mutual  
2 paid days / year available to take for voluntary charitable work  
Central Penrith office location with easy access from the M6  
Professional development opportunities  
 
To apply  
Complete an application form HR - Job Application Form Trust 2025.docx and return with a covering letter demonstrating your experience, knowledge and skills relevant to the role.  
deputyCEO@thegoodshepherdmat.co.uk 
 
 
Application deadline Friday 11h July 2025 at 12 noon  


For an informal chat about the role, you can get in touch with Claire Render - Chief Executive or Rob Blake - Deputy on 01768 807770 


Interviews are planned to take place in person at our Penrith office on Wednesday 16th July 2025.   
 
We’re proud to be the Diocese of Carlisle’s Multi Academy Trust.