About this role
We are standing at the threshold of an extraordinary new chapter; one that will redefine what our Trust can achieve and the impact we can have on children’s lives for generations to come. To help lead this ambitious journey, we are seeking an inspiring, future shaping Chief Financial & Operations Officer who sees possibility where others see limits, and who is energised by the opportunity to build a legacy of excellence from the ground up.
This role is more than stewardship; it is a launchpad for innovation. Working as part of a united and forward thinking leadership team, the CFOO will help design the systems, culture, and strategic direction that will power our Trust into the future. With children’s opportunities and outcomes guiding every decision, you will help create a central engine that is agile, modern, and relentlessly focused on impact.
Whether full time or hybrid, this is a rare opportunity to shape a growing organisation at a pivotal moment — bringing vision, pace, and creativity to a Trust ready to accelerate into its next era.
*The CFOO role is designed as a full time position. However, for an exceptional candidate, we are open to structuring it as a part time or fractional CFO/COO arrangement.
The CFOO will:
Lead financial strategy, budgeting, forecasting and reporting in line with the Academy Trust Handbook Ensure value for money through effective procurement and strong financial controls Oversee estates strategy, capital projects, health & safety and facilities management Hold strategic responsibility for ICT, digital systems and cyber security Support Trust growth through due diligence, onboarding and external partnerships Act as a trusted advisor to the CEO, Headteachers and TrusteesThe successful candidate will have:
Senior leadership experience in finance and/or operations, with strong strategic and analytical capability Proven financial management and compliance experience, ideally within education or the public sector A collaborative, solutions-focused leadership style with the ability to drive improvement and lead change Excellent communication skills, with confidence working with Boards, senior leaders and external partnersHow to Apply:
For further information, including the job description, person specification, and details of the application process, please refer to the attached pack.
If you would like to discuss the role or the application process in more detail, please contact Collette O’Connell (People Lead) at [email protected].
Prospective applicants are also encouraged to arrange an informal conversation or visit prior to applying. To do so, please contact either Collette O’Connell [email protected] or Joanne Harrison, CEO (from September 2026) at [email protected].
**Please note that this vacancy may close early if a high volume of suitable applications is received. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis, and we reserve the right to interview, appoint, and close the vacancy ahead of the advertised deadline.
Create Partnership Trust is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. An enhanced DBS check is required for all successful applicants.
Online searches are carried out on all shortlisted candidates for positions at Create Partnership Trust. The searches are carried out to identify any incidents or issues that have happened, and are publicly available online, which the Trust might want to explore with the candidate at interview.
Please find a link to our safeguarding policy https://www.create.org.uk/governance/policies-documents you are encouraged to read this policy prior to applying to work with us.