Finance Business Partner

Laidlaw Schools Trust (LST) is a growing multi-academy trust committed to transforming the lives of our pupils, their families and the communities we serve. We are seeking a talented and proactive Finance Business Partner to join our central finance team and play a key role in supporting strong financial stewardship across our academies.

This is a fantastic opportunity for a motivated finance professional who enjoys working with leaders, solving problems, and driving meaningful change. You will be part of a friendly, dedicated team that prides itself on high standards and collaborative working.

As a Finance Business Partner, you will:

• Work closely with Principals, senior leaders and budget holders to provide high-quality financial support and strategic advice.
• Lead on budgeting, forecasting and monthly management accounting for your designated academies.
• Ensure strong financial control, robust processes and compliance with Trust policies and regulatory requirements.
• Support academies in understanding and using financial information to make effective, value-for-money decisions.
• Provide insight, analysis and solutions in a fast-paced environment with competing priorities.
• Contribute to Trust-wide initiatives, efficiency programmes and continuous improvement.
• Build excellent relationships across the organisation, acting as a trusted, visible and approachable financial partner.

We are looking for someone who:

• Has significant experience in finance roles involving budgeting, reporting, and financial analysis.
• Can work confidently with non-finance professionals, explaining complex financial information clearly and effectively.
• Thrives in a busy environment, managing multiple priorities and adapting to changing demands.
• Has strong Excel skills and excellent attention to detail.
• Builds positive relationships and works collaboratively with colleagues at all levels.
• Is committed, professional, and proactive, with a focus on delivering excellent service.

The successful candidate will:

• Work in a forward-thinking, supportive Trust that invests in its people.
• Make a genuine difference to the financial health and long-term success of our academies.
• Be part of a team that values integrity, collaboration, and continuous improvement.

To see the full job description and person specification for this role please refer to this link: https://www.northeastjobs.org.uk/job/Finance_Business_Partner/292340 

At Laidlaw Schools Trust we appreciate the amazing work that our people do every day and like to reward our staff through benefits that are mentally, physically and financially rewarding. To see a complete list of our benefits please click here: https://www.laidlawschoolstrust.co.uk/120/benefits

If you wish to have an informal discussion about this post with Emma Swansbury – CFO, please contact: recruitment@laidlawschoolstrust.co.uk

To apply, complete our online application form via this link: https://www.northeastjobs.org.uk/job/Finance_Business_Partner/292340

If you require assistance with your application please contact: recruitment@laidlawschoolstrust.co.uk

Closing Date: Midnight on Sunday 8th March 2026

Interviews Dates are TBC

We are an equal opportunities employer strongly committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. The successful candidate must be able to demonstrate their commitment to children’s safeguarding.

All successful appointments will be subject to an Enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service check and a range of other pre-employment recruitment checks.