At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead financial strategy and governance to drive innovation and growth at Bournemouth University.
- Company: Bournemouth University, a forward-thinking institution with a bold vision for the future.
- Benefits: Join a dynamic team with opportunities for professional development and impact in education.
- Why this job: Shape the future of education while working in a vibrant coastal town.
- Qualifications: Senior financial leadership experience and a track record in financial transformation.
- Other info: Be part of an exciting journey as we invest in digital excellence and entrepreneurial growth.
The predicted salary is between 43200 - 72000 £ per year.
Bournemouth University is entering an exciting new chapter. With a bold and distinctive BU2035 strategy and a clear vision for the future, we are redefining what it means to be a future‐focused, globally connected institution. Our ambition is to provide learning and skills for a digital future, prepare graduates for a rapidly changing world, and create increased impact regionally and internationally while driving economic growth.
To help us deliver this transformation, we are now seeking to recruit an exceptional leader to join the University Executive Team as Chief Financial Officer (CFO). Reporting directly to the Vice‐Chancellor, you will shape and deliver a financial strategy that ensures robust financial governance and controls, while enabling investment, innovation and growth. You will bring creativity and commercial acumen to explore new funding models, partnerships, and income diversification, ensuring long‐term sustainability for the institution.
You will bring senior financial leadership experience and a proven track record of delivering financial transformation in a complex organisation. You will be robust and resilient, with a strong intellect and the capacity to thrive in a professional services role within an academic community. The ability to operate at pace, influence at board level, and build financial literacy across the organisation will be essential.
This is a unique moment to join a university on the rise under new leadership. Bournemouth combines the energy of a thriving coastal town with the ambition of an institution investing heavily in innovation. We have recently secured major funding for the South West's only Cyber Security and AI Centre and are driving forward plans to strengthen our position regionally, nationally, and internationally. Our BU2035 strategy sets out a future focused on digital excellence, entrepreneurial growth, and partnerships that connect our students and research with industry.
For further information, including details of how to apply, please visit www.odgers.com/95091.
Closing date: Friday 27 February 2026
Chief Financial Officer in London employer: Bournemouth University
Contact Detail:
Bournemouth University Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Chief Financial Officer in London
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the finance sector and let them know you're on the lookout for CFO roles. You never know who might have the inside scoop on an opportunity that’s not even advertised yet.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the institution's financial strategies and recent developments. Show them you’re not just another candidate; you’re someone who understands their vision and can contribute to their BU2035 strategy.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your pitch! Be ready to articulate your financial leadership experience and how it aligns with their goals. Highlight your creativity in exploring new funding models and partnerships – that’s what they want to hear!
✨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 about their job search.
We think you need these skills to ace Chief Financial Officer in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter to reflect the specific skills and experiences that align with the Chief Financial Officer role. Highlight your financial leadership experience and any relevant achievements that showcase your ability to drive transformation.
Showcase Your Vision: In your application, don’t just list your qualifications; share your vision for financial strategy in a university setting. We want to see how you can contribute to Bournemouth University's BU2035 strategy and your ideas for innovation and growth.
Be Clear and Concise: Keep your application clear and to the point. Use straightforward language and avoid jargon where possible. This will help us quickly understand your qualifications and how you fit into our team.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website for a smoother process. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to the right people and is considered promptly. Don’t miss out on this exciting opportunity!
How to prepare for a job interview at Bournemouth University
✨Know Your Numbers
As a Chief Financial Officer, you’ll need to demonstrate your financial expertise. Brush up on key financial metrics relevant to Bournemouth University and be ready to discuss how you would approach financial governance and controls in a higher education context.
✨Showcase Your Strategic Vision
Prepare to articulate your vision for the financial strategy that aligns with the BU2035 goals. Think about innovative funding models and partnerships you could propose, and be ready to discuss how these ideas can drive growth and sustainability.
✨Demonstrate Leadership Skills
Highlight your experience in leading financial transformation in complex organisations. Be prepared to share specific examples of how you've influenced at board level and built financial literacy across teams, showcasing your ability to thrive in a professional services role.
✨Engage with the University’s Ambitions
Familiarise yourself with Bournemouth University's recent initiatives, like the Cyber Security and AI Centre. Show genuine interest in their mission and how your skills can contribute to their ambitious plans for innovation and regional impact.