At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a dynamic finance team and drive strategic financial initiatives at Birkbeck.
- Company: Join Birkbeck, University of London, a leader in higher education.
- Benefits: Enjoy 31 days paid leave, flexible working, and a competitive pension scheme.
- Other info: Be part of a diverse community committed to growth and development.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in higher education finance and lead innovative change.
- Qualifications: Proven experience in finance leadership and strong technical accounting skills.
The predicted salary is between 75000 - 100000 £ per year.
Birkbeck, University of London, has an excellent opportunity for a permanent Deputy Director of Finance. This is a broad, senior finance leadership role with genuine depth of technical responsibility. Working alongside the Director of Finance, the Deputy Director has leadership of a well‑established Finance Department of around 25 staff across seven teams – Income, Finance Business Partnering, Payroll and Pensions, Financial Accounting, Payments, Systems and Procurement at Birkbeck.
The role carries technical accountability – including responsibility for the preparation of the annual financial accounts – alongside a wider leadership agenda covering financial planning, regulatory compliance, treasury oversight, committee reporting and external relationship management. The Deputy Director presents papers at the Audit Committee and the Investment Committee and works closely with the Senior Leadership Team on financial matters.
There is a clear improvement agenda in the department, particularly around efficiency and effectiveness in the transactional space. We are keen to explore AI in a considered way, working within appropriate risk and governance frameworks. Candidates who have experience of driving technology‑enabled change in finance functions will find plenty of scope to apply it here.
What We Are Looking For
- Proven, hands‑on experience of preparing statutory accounts, including consolidated group accounts, to a high standard and within statutory deadlines.
- Sound knowledge of FRS102 and UK GAAP, with working knowledge of VAT, Corporation Tax and PAYE compliance.
- Strong cash flow management and forecasting skills, with a track record of keeping a close eye on liquidity in a complex organisation.
- The ability to build, interrogate and stress test financial models, with strong data manipulation skills and a rigorous approach to reconciliation and accuracy.
- Experience of leading finance teams, with a genuine interest in developing people and building a positive team culture.
- Clear, confident communication with non‑finance stakeholders at all levels.
- The confidence to challenge and advise at senior level, and the judgement to know when to elevate.
- Experience of higher education is desirable but not essential.
If you are a dynamic leader with a passion for higher education, apply to become our Deputy Director of Finance and contribute to Birkbeck's continued success.
Salary and benefits
Competitive salary. Benefits: 31 days paid leave, flexible working arrangements, a competitive pension scheme, generous benefits in the HE sector and being located in the heart of Bloomsbury, Euston, London.
Contract
This is a permanent, full‑time role, 35 hours per week, Monday‑Friday 9-5pm, with at least 2 days in the office. Candidates are expected to be flexible and attend the site as and when needed, which may be more than 2 days.
Closing date: Sunday 31 May; interview date: w/c 8 June 2026.
Enquiries
If you would like to know more about the role, please contact Aarti Rayrella, Director of Finance. Only formal applications through the online system will be considered. We welcome applicants from all sections of the community. The College is committed to improving the gender and cultural diversity of its workforce, holding a bronze Athena SWAN award and operating Disability Confident & Mindful Employer schemes.
Deputy Director of Finance in London employer: Birkbeck University London
Birkbeck, University of London is an exceptional employer that fosters a collaborative and inclusive work culture, offering a competitive salary and generous benefits such as 31 days of paid leave and flexible working arrangements. Located in the vibrant heart of Bloomsbury, Euston, this role provides ample opportunities for professional growth and development within a supportive finance team, making it an ideal environment for dynamic leaders passionate about higher education.
Contact Details:
Birkbeck University London Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Deputy Director of Finance in London
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the finance sector, especially those who have experience in higher education. A friendly chat can lead to insider info about the role and even a referral.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by brushing up on your knowledge of FRS102 and UK GAAP. Be ready to discuss how you've tackled financial challenges in the past and how you can bring that expertise to Birkbeck.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your leadership skills! Think of examples where you've developed teams or driven change in finance functions. This is your chance to shine and demonstrate how you can contribute to the improvement agenda at Birkbeck.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive and engaged with our process.
We think you need these skills to ace Deputy Director of Finance in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter to highlight your experience in preparing statutory accounts and managing finance teams. We want to see how your skills align with the role of Deputy Director of Finance at Birkbeck!
Showcase Your Leadership Skills:This role is all about leading a team, so don’t forget to mention your experience in developing people and fostering a positive team culture. We love seeing candidates who can inspire and motivate their teams!
Be Clear and Concise:When writing your application, keep it straightforward and to the point. Use clear language to communicate your financial expertise and ensure that your passion for higher education shines through!
Apply Through Our Website:Remember, we only consider applications submitted through our online system. So, make sure you apply directly on our website to be in the running for this exciting opportunity!
How to prepare for a job interview at Birkbeck University London
✨Know Your Numbers
Make sure you brush up on your financial knowledge, especially around statutory accounts and FRS102. Be ready to discuss your experience with preparing financial statements and how you've managed cash flow in previous roles. This will show that you’re not just familiar with the numbers but can also handle the technical responsibilities of the role.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
As a Deputy Director, you'll be leading a team, so it's crucial to demonstrate your leadership style. Prepare examples of how you've developed teams in the past and fostered a positive culture. Think about specific instances where you’ve successfully led change or improved efficiency within a finance function.
✨Communicate Clearly
You’ll need to communicate complex financial information to non-finance stakeholders, so practice explaining financial concepts in simple terms. During the interview, be prepared to share examples of how you've effectively communicated with senior leaders and influenced decision-making.
✨Embrace Technology
With a focus on AI and technology-enabled change, be ready to discuss any relevant experience you have in this area. Think about how you've used technology to improve processes or reporting in finance. Showing that you’re forward-thinking and open to innovation will set you apart from other candidates.
