Interim Head of Financial Planning & Analysis

The University is seeking an experienced and dynamic Interim Head of Financial Planning & Analysis to join the Financial Leadership Team. This key role involves leading financial planning, analysis, and reporting processes across the University to support high-level decision-making. As part of a forward-thinking team, you will play a crucial role in shaping financial strategies, guiding senior leadership, and ensuring alignment with the University's overall objectives.

Key Responsibilities:

• Build and nurture effective business partner relationships across the University.
• Foster a culture of customer-centric service across all finance operations.
• Work closely with the Associate CFO, Finance Business Partners, and other teams to deliver a cohesive service.
• Lead and mentor a team of 4, ensuring professional development and performance.
• Lead data collection, consolidation, and scenario analysis during budgeting and forecasting cycles, collaborating closely with the Planning Directorate.
• Deliver clear, accurate, and insightful financial and management reports, supporting decision-making at the University’s senior levels.
• Regularly prepare briefing papers for senior stakeholders, including the Finance Committee and Collegiate Council.
• Develop and implement key financial and non-financial KPIs, ensuring effective internal and external reporting.
• Own financial reporting systems and processes, driving improvements where necessary.
• Run a planning tool project to merge data from one ERP system to another.
• Lead the University’s budgeting process, ensuring alignment with operational goals and strategic objectives.
• Collaborate with the CFO to shape the University’s financial strategy and long-term funding plans.
• Oversee performance reviews and support the management of financial risks across the institution.
• Lead the development of business and investment cases, ensuring sound financial appraisals and analysis.
• Partner with external consultants to implement a new planning tool, and manage its ongoing administration.
• Assist in managing the Finance & Planning Department and provide senior team cover as needed.
• Ensure process resilience and continuous improvement within the FP&A team.
• Support the wider finance team with mentoring and skills development, helping to raise overall financial literacy across the University.
• Contribute to the overall success of the Finance Division, collaborating with colleagues on various initiatives.
• Perform other duties as required by the CFO, consistent with the responsibilities and grade of the role.

Timeliness & Deadline Management: Ensure projects are delivered on time and to a high standard.

Effective Communication: Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to influence and engage at all levels.

Proactive Problem-Solving: Ability to independently analyse complex issues and present solutions.

Adaptability & Flexibility: Comfortable managing competing priorities and shifting demands.

Networking & Collaboration: Build strong networks within the University and with external stakeholders.

Leadership & Influence: Strong management capabilities, with the ability to mentor and guide both team members and senior leadership.

Essential Qualifications & Experience:

• CCAB-qualified (or equivalent).
• Proven experience in a complex professional service environment.
• Significant experience in financial planning, budgeting, forecasting, and analysis.
• Business partnering experience, particularly in a higher education sector.
• Strong technical financial skills across risk management, financial accounting, and reporting.
• Ability to lead complex analysis and financial modelling, providing strategic insights.

Additional Attributes:

• High degree of professionalism, with credibility and influence at senior levels.
• Independent, proactive, and tactful in challenging situations.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.

The University’s Commitment: As a member of the University, you will be expected to adhere to the principles of equality, diversity, and inclusion in all aspects of your work. Follow University policies on Data Protection, Health & Safety, and Environmental Sustainability. Engage in continuous professional development.

This is a fantastic opportunity for an ambitious finance leader to contribute to the growth and success of a prestigious institution. If you have the expertise to make a significant impact and thrive in a collaborative, fast-paced environment, we would love to hear from you.