Finance Finance
Chief Financial Officer – Hilary Manton
‘As the Finance team we provide total financial support to all schools in the Trust including procurement, banking, trips support, community administration, audit compliance, iInternal scrutiny, supporting and guiding all Headteachers with the finances of their school.’
Within the finance team of the Trust, the Chief Financial Officer (CFO) and their team members embody a multifaceted persona blending professionalism with a deep sense of responsibility and integrity. Patient in their approach, they understand the intricacies of financial operations within education, recognizing that meticulousness is essential for the Trust’s financial stability and success. Their patience extends to interactions with colleagues and stakeholders, navigating complex financial matters with clarity and composure.
Accuracy is the cornerstone of their work ethic. They meticulously scrutinise financial data, ensuring precision and error-free calculations. Recognizing the significance of accurate financial reporting in maintaining the Trust’s credibility and compliance, they leave no room for ambiguity or oversight. Professionalism permeates every aspect of their conduct; they adhere to ethical standards, conducting themselves with dignity and respect in all interactions.
A “can-do” attitude characterises the finance team’s approach to their work. They approach tasks with diligence and determination, understanding the importance of their role in supporting the Trust’s vision and values. Their dedication is unwavering as they meet deadlines, tackle challenges, and contribute to the Trust’s overall success. Knowledgeability is a cornerstone of their expertise; possessing a deep understanding of finance principles and regulations, they make informed decisions and provide strategic guidance to the Trust’s leadership. Respectfulness defines their interactions, cultivating an inclusive and supportive work environment where diverse perspectives are valued, and collaboration thrives.
The RAISE Education Trust has a proven track record of effective financial management in all of its schools. Overseen by the Trust’s Chief Operating Officer we offer:
If you require more information please contact Hilary Manton: h.manton@RAISEeducationtrust.org
- Draft audit report preparation.
- Management of TP, financial and regulatory audits.
- Preparation of individual school and Trust control sheets and fund analysis.
Negotiation & organisation of agreed central services (currently personnel and insurance).
Prepare all financial and budgetary returns required by the ESFA/DfE.
- Work with all schools to ensure they meet ‘going concern’ requirements.
- Lead the Trust’s finance teams to ensure appropriate policies, structures and standards in place in light of new status and consolidated audit requirements. Provide training as required.
Central management of fixed assets and depreciation.
- Ensure correct use of central funds – school contributions and improvement funds.
- Establish an investment structure for the Trust.
Preparation of all intercompany journals after approval.
- Finance system is held on a central platform. Schools joining the Trust will need to be set up on the system and have the database set up.
- Provision of technical helpdesk support.
- Amendments to structure of system to support school requirements.
To ensure all schools follow the same procedure, month-end support will be given until such time as an individual school no longer needs the support. Central review of month end data.
- Initial and on-going finance training.
- Provision of financial helpdesk support.
- Manage capital bids for the Trust.
- Work with school to investigate opportunities for income generation from capital assets.
- Work with schools to identify opportunities for collaboration (ICT, procurement).
VAT returns to be carried out centrally for all schools in the Trust.