Jobs in Irlam

Kids Planet is an independent, family run group of nurseries providing the highest standard of nursery care across the UK.

Early Years Funding Analyst
Location: This role is currently based at our head office in Lymm, which will be relocating to Altrincham in early 2027.
Job Specifications: 40 hours per week, office-based, travel to Nurseries when required.
Reporting to: Early Years Funding Manager
As a quickly developing nursery company, Kids Planet Day Nurseries has grown to over 300 nurseries. As a result, we are always adding members to our finance team, and we are presently seeking an Early Years Funding Analyst. The role will complete detailed data analysis to identify funding trends, variances, risks, missed opportunities, providing clear information to support operational and strategic decision-making. The postholder will maintain accurate central funding records and work closely with Local Authorities, nurseries, finance, and central support teams, whilst providing support to the Early Years Funding Manager.
Responsibilities will include but not be limited to the following:
Maintain a central tracker covering all Early Years funding streams, including funded entitlements, EYPP, DAF, SEND and inclusion funding, deprivation supplements and other Local Authority-specific funding.
Complete regular data analysis to identify trends, funding gaps, underclaims, overclaims, payment variances and potential lost income.
Analyse funding performance by nursery, region, Local Authority and funding stream.
Assist with reconciling expected funding against payments received and investigate discrepancies promptly.
Produce clear monthly funding reports, dashboards and exception reports for management.
Work with the Data Team to develop and maintain accurate Power BI reporting for funding performance deadlines and risks.
Maintain supporting evidence and a clear audit trail for all funding claims, together with completion of funding contracts across all nurseries, including new acquisitions.
Escalate material funding risks, missed deadlines and unresolved payment discrepancies to the Early Years Funding Manager.
Ensure pre-audit compliance checks are completed and documentation collated and submitted to Local Authorities as required
When possible, to support with Early Years Funding Analysis audits (face-to-face & virtual) to ensure compliance with statutory guidance
Support continuous improvement of funding processes, identifying opportunities to improve efficiency and reduce risk
Any other duties deemed appropriate to the role

The ideal applicant will possess:
At least 3 years of Early Years Funding experience.
A good understanding of Early Years Funding regulations across all different LA's
Good level of competence in Excel, Word, and Outlook
Proven experience in a B2C environment desirable
Confident communication skills especially when dealing with LA's
An excellent telephone manner
Self-motivated, calm and professional, and able to work efficiently in a busy office environment
Ability to reconcile complex accounts and have excellent attention to detail
Excellent Numerical ability and problem-solving skill
This recruitment opportunity offers the successful candidate a competitive salary and pension whilst working within a professional team.

Why join Kids Planet?
A supportive, friendly team
Great Benefits Package
Great Place to Work Certified 2025/26
Ranked #1 UK Best Workplaces for Women 2025
Crowned NMT's Large Nursery Group of the Year, for the second year running
80% Childcare Discount - T&Cs apply.

What's in it for you?
Free breakfast, lunches and healthy snacks including fresh fruit.
Accredited training with the KP Academy.
Enhanced Maternity, Paternity Fertility and Adoption leave.
Dedicated wellbeing package.
Highly discounted childcare.
25 days annual leave plus a day off for your birthday.
Life Insurance cover and access to a health plan.

This recruitment opportunity offers the successful candidate a competitive salary and pension whilst working within a professional team.
Like the sound of joining our family?
Apply today to be an Early Years Funding Analyst with Kids Planet Day Nurseries!

We are unable to offer any kind of visa sponsorship for this role.
We embrace everyone. Our goal is to create a truly inclusive culture and diverse workforce. We break down barriers so you can be your authentic self and flourish!
Kids Planet is dedicated to safeguarding and promoting the well-being of children and young people. An enhanced DBS check will be required for this role. We expect all staff and volunteers to uphold this commitment, and safeguarding training is a fundamental part of every role. All colleagues are required to complete regular training to ensure they understand and fulfil their responsibilities. A Disclosure and Barring Service Certificate is mandatory for all positions, and this role will be subject to enhanced checks as part of our safeguarding duties.

Kids Planet is committed to equal opportunities for all. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all our staff and children. Applications are encouraged regardless of age, disability, sex, gender reassignment, sexual orientation, pregnancy and maternity, race, religion or belief and marriage and civil partnerships