At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead financial planning for student enrolments and develop strategic communications.
- Company: A leading university focused on innovative financial strategies.
- Benefits: Hybrid working arrangement with opportunities for impactful leadership.
- Other info: Collaborative environment with a focus on stakeholder engagement.
- Why this job: Make a difference in higher education finance while shaping future strategies.
- Qualifications: Experience in Higher Education finance and strong communication skills.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 80000 £ per year.
Ambient People is working with a leading university to recruit an Interim Head of Financial Strategy to provide senior leadership and strategic support whilst the university completes recruitment for the permanent post. This role will play a key part in maintaining momentum on several critical priorities over the coming months.
A primary focus will be leading financial planning activity relating to 2026/27 student enrolments over the summer period, alongside developing a communications and engagement approach for their Financial Strategy. The successful candidate will help ensure stakeholders across the university understand the strategy, its objectives and how they can engage with its delivery.
Working closely with senior leaders across the institution, you will be responsible for producing high-quality reports, briefing papers and strategic communications that translate complex financial information into clear, actionable insights. You will need to navigate a large and diverse organisation, building strong relationships and managing sensitive communications with a wide range of stakeholders.
The successful candidate will bring previous experience within the Higher Education sector, alongside a strong track record of operating in strategic finance roles. You will have excellent report-writing skills, experience presenting complex information to senior audiences, and the ability to influence and engage stakeholders in a thoughtful and collaborative manner.
Strong communication skills, sound judgement and the ability to work effectively in a complex environment are essential. You will be comfortable balancing competing priorities, managing sensitive issues and providing credible advice to support decision-making at a senior level. The role is based on a hybrid working arrangement.
If this opportunity aligns with your experience and availability, please send through your application. Early applications are encouraged as they will be reviewed upon receipt.
Interim Head of Financial Planning - Higher Education employer: Ambient People
Working at this leading university offers a unique opportunity to contribute to the future of higher education while enjoying a supportive and collaborative work culture. With a focus on employee growth, the university provides access to professional development resources and encourages innovative thinking, making it an excellent employer for those looking to make a meaningful impact. The hybrid working arrangement allows for flexibility, ensuring a healthy work-life balance as you engage with diverse stakeholders and lead strategic financial initiatives.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Interim Head of Financial Planning - Higher Education
✨Join Financial Networking Events
Jump into local finance meetups and conferences — they’re a goldmine for temporary roles in banking and financial services. You can chat with industry professionals and even get leads on upcoming opportunities that might not be posted online yet.
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Reach out to temp agencies that focus on the banking sector. They often have strong ties with various firms and can help you secure short-term gigs that can help beef up your CV and get your foot in the door at firms like Ambient People.
✨Connect with Alumni from Your Uni
Don't underestimate the power of your university’s alumni network. Many former students are working in banking and can help you find temporary roles or even offer mentorship. Reach out directly or attend alumni events to broaden your circle.
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We think you need these skills to ace Interim Head of Financial Planning - Higher Education
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Academic Achievements:In banking and financial services, your academic record can really make you stand out. List relevant grades, certifications, or coursework on your CV, especially if you've taken finance-related modules. This is particularly important for a temporary role where qualifications can help you shine even brighter!
Highlight Relevant Experience:If you’ve done any internships, part-time roles, or even coursework that aligns with banking or finance, make sure you include those! Showcase specific tasks where you used quantitative skills or analytical thinking, as this is what the hiring managers at Ambient People will be keen to see in your application.
Tailor Your Cover Letter Purposefully:When writing your cover letter, focus on why you’re interested in a temporary position at Ambient People. Let them know how you can quickly adapt to the team's needs and how eager you are to learn the ropes of the banking sector during this short stint. Your motivation and enthusiasm could really set you apart!
Be Prepared with References:For temporary roles, references can play a crucial role in your application. Make sure you’ve got a couple of references lined up who can vouch for your skills and work ethic. This helps to give Ambient People confidence in your short-term commitment to the role.
How to prepare for a job interview at Ambient People
✨Brush Up on Financial Regulations
Since this is a role in banking and financial services, be ready to discuss key regulations like MiFID, Basel III, or GDPR. These are hot topics, and your awareness of how they impact daily operations can give you a significant edge during your interview with Ambient People.
✨Showcase Your Analytical Skills
Prepare for interview questions that assess your analytical abilities. You might need to tackle hypothetical scenarios involving risk assessment or financial forecasting. Bringing examples of relevant projects or coursework can emphasise your practical understanding of these concepts.
✨Highlight Flexibility and Adaptability
For a temporary role, showing that you can quickly pick up new processes and tools is crucial. Be ready to discuss previous experiences where you had to adapt to changing requirements or tight deadlines, as this will reassure Ambient People that you’re a reliable team player.
✨Demonstrate a Willingness to Learn
In a temporary position, leaning into your eagerness to learn can really set you apart. Be prepared to share how you’re staying updated on industry trends or any additional training you've pursued. Employers appreciate candidates who are proactive about their development—even for short-term roles.
