Finance Leads PLLC - Session 3

As we move into the key period for financial planning and budget setting, this session will focus on the practical realities CFOs are currently facing across the sector.

We will begin with a collaborative discussion on budget setting assumptions, providing an opportunity for colleagues to compare emerging approaches and test thinking around key financial pressures including pay assumptions, pupil number trends, pension changes and wider cost drivers. This will be a practical session designed to help CFOs sense-check their assumptions against those of peers across the partnership.

The session will also explore strategic responses to ongoing financial pressure, including how trusts are approaching cost sustainability, workforce planning and opportunities to operate more efficiently in the years ahead.

We will also welcome Education Showroom, who will provide a short overview of how they are supporting trusts to identify cost-effective services and alternative suppliers across a range of operational areas. This will include examples of how trusts are reviewing existing contracts and identifying potential savings opportunities.

Subject to confirmation, we also hope to include a short contribution exploring emerging opportunities around AI and automation within finance and operational services, sharing early insights into how trusts are beginning to use technology to improve efficiency.

As always, the session will provide time for open discussion and peer exchange, allowing colleagues to share current challenges and identify areas where collaboration across the network may be helpful.

To get the most from the session, please bring:

• Your initial budget assumptions for 2026–27 (e.g. pay awards, inflation assumptions, pension rates, vacancy factors)

• Any cost pressures or financial risks currently emerging within your trust

• Examples of approaches you are exploring to manage cost pressures or improve efficiency

This will allow us to build a live comparison across trusts during the session, helping colleagues to benchmark thinking and identify potential areas for further collaboration.