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- Tasks: Lead a team in preparing management accounts and improving financial processes.
- Company: Join the University of Durham, a prestigious institution committed to excellence.
- Benefits: Enjoy 42 days off, a generous pension, and health support including gym discounts.
- Why this job: Make an impact in finance while developing your career in a supportive environment.
- Qualifications: Experience in finance management and strong leadership skills are essential.
- Other info: Relocation support and visa assistance available for new hires.
The predicted salary is between 43200 - 72000 £ per year.
The Senior Finance Manager reports directly to the Head of Finance. The Senior Finance Manager will lead a direct team in preparing monthly management accounts and ensuring accurate financial postings within the remit, whilst providing continuous improvement to processes impacting on the efficiency and accuracy of financial data.
The Senior Finance Manager will also have a critical role in collaborating and supporting the Finance Business Partner within their remit in preparing budgets and forecasts, having ownership of the accuracy of the budgeting software tool and the alignment of the actuals to the budgets and forecasts. The SFM will also have responsibility to assist with year-end processes and will handle internal/external audit requests and processes as directed.
The Senior Finance Manager will ensure the development of the management accounting function, ensuring their teams are skilled and appropriately qualified with career progression and succession planning opportunities fully outlined.
Further information about the role and the responsibilities is at the bottom of this job description and in the Specific Role Expectations document.
A competitive salary is only one part of the many fantastic benefits you will receive if you join the University: you will also receive access to the following fantastic benefits:
- 30 Days annual leave per year in addition to 8 public holidays and 4 customary days per year - a total of 42 days per year.
- The University closes between Christmas and New Year.
- We offer a generous pension scheme, As a new member of staff you will be automatically enrolled into this University Superannuation Scheme (USS).
- No matter how you travel to work, we have you covered. We have parking across campus, a cycle to work scheme which helps you to buy a bike and discount with local bus and train companies.
- There is a genuine commitment to developing our colleagues professionally and personally. There is a comprehensive range of development courses, apprenticeships and access to qualifications and routes to develop your career in the University. All staff have dedicated annual time to concentrate on their personal development opportunities.
- Lots of support for health and wellbeing including discounted membership for our state of the art sport and gym facilities and access to a 24-7 Employee Assistance Programme.
- On site nursery is available and children's clubs in the summer holidays.
- Family friendly policies, including maternity and adoption leave, which are among the most generous in the higher education sector (and likely above and beyond many employers).
- The opportunity to take part in staff volunteering activities to make a difference in the local community.
- Discounts are available via our benefits portal including; money off at supermarkets, high street retailers, IT products such as Apple, the cinema and days out at various attractions.
- A salary sacrifice scheme is also available to help you take advantage of tax savings on benefits.
- If you are moving to Durham, we can help with removal costs and we have a dedicated team who can help you with the practicalities such as house hunting and schools.
- If you need a visa, we cover most visa costs and offer an interest free loan scheme to pay for dependant visas.
Senior Finance Manager - Durham employer: Durham University
Contact Detail:
Durham University Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Finance Manager - Durham
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the latest financial regulations and standards relevant to the higher education sector. This knowledge will not only help you in interviews but also demonstrate your commitment to staying updated in a rapidly changing field.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with current or former employees of the University of Durham, especially those in finance roles. They can provide valuable insights into the company culture and expectations, which can be beneficial during your discussions.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss specific examples of how you've improved financial processes in previous roles. Highlighting your experience in leading teams and managing budgets will show that you're well-suited for the Senior Finance Manager position.
✨Tip Number 4
Research the University’s strategic goals and how the finance department supports these objectives. Being able to articulate how your role as a Senior Finance Manager can contribute to these goals will set you apart from other candidates.
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Finance Manager - Durham
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Read the job description thoroughly to grasp the responsibilities and expectations of the Senior Finance Manager position. Highlight key skills and experiences that align with the role in your application.
Tailor Your CV: Customise your CV to reflect your relevant experience in finance management, budgeting, and team leadership. Use specific examples that demonstrate your ability to improve processes and manage financial data accurately.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that not only outlines your qualifications but also expresses your enthusiasm for the role and the university. Mention how your values align with their commitment to professional development and community engagement.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting, carefully proofread your CV and cover letter for any errors or inconsistencies. A polished application reflects attention to detail, which is crucial for a finance role.
How to prepare for a job interview at Durham University
✨Understand the Role
Make sure you thoroughly understand the responsibilities of a Senior Finance Manager. Familiarise yourself with management accounts, budgeting processes, and audit requirements. This will help you answer questions confidently and demonstrate your knowledge.
✨Showcase Leadership Skills
As this role involves leading a team, be prepared to discuss your leadership style and experiences. Share examples of how you've developed team members and improved processes in previous roles to highlight your capability in managing a finance team.
✨Prepare for Technical Questions
Expect technical questions related to financial reporting, budgeting software, and management accounting. Brush up on relevant financial regulations and best practices to show that you're well-versed in the technical aspects of the role.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
Prepare thoughtful questions about the department's goals, challenges, and the company's culture. This shows your genuine interest in the position and helps you assess if the company aligns with your career aspirations.