Finance Manager

An exciting opportunity has arisen for an experienced Finance Manager to join a leading London-based university within its Planning and Business Partnering team. This is a strategic leadership role, responsible for delivering high-quality financial support, driving performance, and influencing decision-making across the institution.

You will act as a senior partner to academic and professional stakeholders, providing financial insight, leading a high-performing team, and supporting the delivery of the University’s financial strategy.

Role Information

Job title: Finance Manager

Department: Finance

Salary: £51,500 – £53,301

Location: London (Hybrid working available)

Key Responsibilities

Strategic Leadership & Business Partnering

Provide strategic and operational leadership across financial services, ensuring alignment with institutional objectives.

Act as a senior finance partner to Schools, influencing key decisions and improving understanding of business performance.

Build strong relationships with senior stakeholders, providing insight on financial strategy and business opportunities.

Planning, Budgeting & Forecasting

Lead annual financial planning and budget-setting processes in line with University strategy.

Oversee consolidated reporting, forecasting and long-term financial planning.

Ensure accurate and timely production of financial information to support decision-making.

Financial Analysis & Reporting

Provide high-quality financial analysis and insight to senior management and external stakeholders.

Support the development and review of business cases through investment appraisal and financial modelling.

Lead on key reporting areas including tuition fee setting, student number reconciliations and external returns.

Governance, Controls & Compliance

Ensure robust financial controls and adherence to policies, procedures and regulatory requirements.

Promote value for money and effective resource management across the organisation.

Maintain compliance with financial regulations and reporting standards.

Team Leadership & Service Delivery

Lead, develop and motivate a high-performing finance team.

Manage resources effectively to deliver high-quality financial support services.

Take ownership of service outcomes, ensuring delivery aligns with University values and strategic goals.

Continuous Improvement & Change

Champion innovation and continuous improvement across financial processes and services.

Identify opportunities to enhance efficiency, transparency and service delivery.

Lead on service improvement initiatives and support organisational change programmes.

Candidate Profile

Strong experience in financial management, business partnering or a senior finance role

Proven ability to lead, develop and motivate teams

Experience of budgeting, forecasting and strategic financial planning

Strong understanding of financial governance, controls and regulatory requirements

Ability to influence senior stakeholders and support strategic decision-making

Excellent analytical, communication and organisational skills

This vacancy will be actively shortlisted, so early applications are encouraged to avoid missing out.