At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a team in managing research and project accounting, ensuring financial accuracy and compliance.
- Company: Join a prestigious university with a focus on world-leading research and education.
- Benefits: Flexible working arrangements, career development opportunities, and a supportive team environment.
- Other info: Be part of a Disability Confident Employer committed to flexible working options.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in research while developing your leadership skills in a collaborative setting.
- Qualifications: CCAB qualified accountant with experience in budget management and team supervision.
The predicted salary is between 45000 - 55000 £ per year.
About the Role
The post holder will lead a small team responsible for post-award research, consultancy and large project accounting for parts of the University. This includes the production and review of invoices and claims, preparation for contract and funder audits, monitoring project progress, identifying variances and risks, and supporting the financial budgeting and forecasting of research, consultancy and large project income and expenditure. A key part of the role will be managing, supporting and developing two team members, ensuring the team provides a professional, customer-focused and proactive service. The post holder will also contribute to continuous improvement across research monitoring, claims and project accounting, including ensuring accurate project set-up and effective use of finance systems and automated processes.
About You
You will be a CCAB qualified accountant with significant experience in a complex organisation, preferably Higher Education. You will have experience of monitoring financial performance against budgets, funding agreements or contracts, and will be confident in budget setting, forecasting and variance analysis. Experience of managing or supervising staff is also essential. In return, the successful applicant will have excellent opportunities for career development in this key role, supporting world-leading research and education while joining a supportive team and collaborative working environment.
Working Arrangements
Collaborating and connecting are integral to so much of what we do. Our Working Arrangements Framework provides many staff with the opportunity to flexibly combine on-site and remote working, where job roles allow, balancing the needs of our community of staff, students, clients and partners.
Application & EEO
For an informal discussion about this opportunity, please contact James Allman, Financial Controller on (E): james.allman@cranfield.ac.uk. Please do not hesitate to contact us for further details on (E): peoplerecruitment@cranfield.ac.uk. Please quote reference number 5322. We are a Disability Confident Employer. We are committed to actively exploring flexible working options for each role and have been ranked in the Top 30 family-friendly employers in the United Kingdom by the charity Working Families. Closing date for receipt of applications: 19 June 2026. Please note that we reserve the right to close this advert prior to the stated closing date should we receive sufficient numbers of applications. Therefore, we would encourage you to complete and submit your application as soon as possible.
Research Monitoring and Claims Accountant in Cranfield employer: Cranfield University
Cranfield University is an exceptional employer, offering a supportive and collaborative work environment that prioritises employee growth and development. As a CCAB qualified accountant in the Research Monitoring and Claims Accountant role, you will lead a dedicated team while benefiting from flexible working arrangements and opportunities to contribute to world-leading research and education. Join us to be part of a community that values professional excellence and work-life balance.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Research Monitoring and Claims Accountant in Cranfield
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the higher education sector and let them know you're on the lookout for opportunities. You never know who might have the inside scoop on a role that’s perfect for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the university's recent projects and financial strategies. This will show that you’re genuinely interested and ready to contribute to their goals right from the get-go.
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t underestimate the power of follow-ups! After an interview, drop a quick thank-you email to express your appreciation and reiterate your enthusiasm for the role. It keeps you fresh in their minds!
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website for the best chance at landing the job. We love seeing applications come directly from our platform, and it helps us keep track of all the amazing talent out there!
We think you need these skills to ace Research Monitoring and Claims Accountant in Cranfield
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV reflects the skills and experience mentioned in the job description. Highlight your CCAB qualification and any relevant experience in research or consultancy accounting. We want to see how you fit into our team!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're passionate about this role and how your background aligns with our needs. Don’t forget to mention your experience in managing teams and improving processes.
Showcase Your Achievements:When detailing your experience, focus on specific achievements that demonstrate your ability to monitor financial performance and manage budgets. We love numbers, so if you can quantify your successes, even better!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website for a smoother application process. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets into the right hands quickly. Plus, we’re excited to see what you bring to the table!
How to prepare for a job interview at Cranfield University
✨Know Your Numbers
As a Research Monitoring and Claims Accountant, you'll need to be comfortable with financial data. Brush up on your budgeting, forecasting, and variance analysis skills. Be ready to discuss specific examples from your past experience where you successfully managed financial performance against budgets.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
Since this role involves managing a small team, it's crucial to demonstrate your leadership abilities. Prepare to share instances where you've supported or developed team members, highlighting your approach to fostering a professional and customer-focused environment.
✨Understand the Bigger Picture
Familiarise yourself with the university's research and consultancy projects. Being able to discuss how your role contributes to the overall success of these initiatives will show that you're not just focused on numbers but also on the impact of your work.
✨Be Ready for Continuous Improvement
This position emphasises continuous improvement in project accounting processes. Think about ways you've implemented changes in previous roles that enhanced efficiency or accuracy. Be prepared to discuss how you can bring that mindset to this new role.
