Head of Financial Operations

This is a key leadership role that will deliver a Finance Operations function that is fit for purpose in the context of supporting delivery of the University's overall strategy. The role will lead our Finance Operations teams which are:

• Procurement


• Pay and Pensions


• Accounts Payable (Payments)


• Travel and Business Expenses


• Accounts Receivable (Income Office)


• Finance Systems


You will lead c.75 staff creating a culture of collaboration, continual improvement, excellence and effectiveness. You will provide direction and strong scrutiny to ensure that operational activities are successfully and efficiently delivered, and within regulatory requirements.

The role will lead on developing the strategy for, and delivery of long term system improvements and developments across Finance with a view towards a new ERP system in the forthcoming years. You will work closely with other colleagues within the department, across the University, and externally. The role will work closely with the Head of Financial Control and Compliance to identify and implement a robust control environment, efficiencies, process reviews, and systems enhancements within the existing suite of systems.

Are you an experienced senior finance professional and a strong communicator who demonstrates effective leadership skills and champions collaborative working? This job could be just for you., You will have an extensive and proven track record of team management, with excellent personal skills and the ability to work collaboratively with colleagues within and outside the Finance department. Good system knowledge and the ability to challenge the status quo and improve processes is essential. You should have extensive prior experience of managing financial processing functions, and of developing and enforcing associated policies and procedures.

We are one of the best not-for-profit organisations to work for in the UK. The University's Total Reward Package includes a competitive salary, a generous Pension Scheme and annual leave entitlement, as well as access to a range of learning and development courses to support your personal and professional development.

We are committed to supporting professional education for finance staff and applications can be made for financial support towards the continuation of study to gain professional qualifications.

We offer hybrid working arrangements for finance staff with a mixture of working on campus and remotely.

What we offer

• A minimum of 41 days annual leave including bank holiday and closure days (pro rata) with the ability to purchase more.


• Flexible working opportunities, including hybrid working for some roles.


• Generous pension scheme.


• A wide range of discounts and rewards on shopping, eating out and travel.


• A variety of staff networks, providing opportunities for social interaction, peer support and personal development (for example, Race Equality, LGBT+, Women's and Parent's networks).


• Recognition Awards to reward staff who go above and beyond in their role.


• A commitment to your development access to learning and mentoring schemes; integrated with our Academic Career Pathways and Professional Services Shared Skills Framework.


• A range of generous family-friendly policies


o paid time off for parenting and caring emergencies
o support for those going through the menopause
o paid time off and support for fertility treatment
o and more