At a Glance
- 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.
- Other info: Relocation support and visa assistance available for new hires.
- 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.
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
Joining the University of Durham as a Senior Finance Manager means becoming part of a vibrant community that prioritises employee well-being and professional growth. With an impressive 42 days of annual leave, a robust pension scheme, and extensive development opportunities, you will thrive in a supportive environment that values your contributions. The University also offers unique benefits such as on-site childcare, health and wellness support, and assistance for those relocating to Durham, making it an exceptional place to build a rewarding career.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Finance Manager - Durham
✨Tap into Campus Networks
If you're still in uni, don’t forget to engage with your campus's career services and attend finance-related events. Banks often do presentations and recruitment drives on campus, so put yourself out there and make use of these opportunities to show off your passion for the field.
✨Get Certified
Consider pursuing relevant certifications like the CFA or ACCA while you’re job hunting. They not only beef up your CV but also connect you with professional bodies which can lead to networking opportunities and even job openings in banking and financial services.
✨Connect on Professional Platforms
Join finance-focused groups on platforms like LinkedIn and engage in discussions. This can really help you stand out from the crowd, allowing potential employers to see your knowledge and interest in industry trends. Plus, you might stumble upon job postings shared exclusively within the group.
✨Apply Directly and Be Proactive
Don’t shy away from reaching out directly to firms like Durham University. Use their websites and apply through them, but also consider following up with a polite email to express your enthusiasm. Being proactive can make a huge difference in getting noticed in the competitive financial services sector.
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Finance Manager - Durham
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Numbers!:In the banking and financial services world, quantifiable achievements are key. Make sure your CV highlights your grades in relevant subjects, any financial certifications you hold, and specific projects where you've delivered measurable results. Employers love to see how your skills translate into real-world success.
Tailor Your Cover Letter to the Role:When applying for a full-time position, your cover letter should make a direct connection between your experience and the job description. Don't just state your enthusiasm for finance—dive into how your background in banking or financial analysis sets you apart. Let your passion shine through while being specific about what you can bring to Durham University.
Include Relevant Financial Software Experience:If you've worked with financial modelling tools or software like Excel, SAP, or specific analytical tools during your studies or internships, bring that up! Highlighting your proficiency can really make your application pop and show you're ready to hit the ground running in a full-time role.
Research and Reflect:Before hitting that 'apply' button on Durham University's website, do a little digging. Look up their recent projects, values, and culture. Reflecting their ethos in your application can make a huge difference and show you’re genuinely interested in being part of the team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Durham University
✨Brush Up on Financial Analysis Skills
Make sure you're well-versed in financial concepts and analytical techniques relevant to banking and financial services. Get comfortable with tools like Excel for modelling or financial forecasting, as technical questions in this area are common during interviews with Durham University.
✨Prepare for Case Studies
Expect to tackle case studies that demonstrate your problem-solving skills in real-world banking scenarios. Familiarise yourself with the types of problems you might face—think risk assessments or investment evaluations—and be ready to articulate your thought process clearly.
✨Show Your Passion for Finance
Since this is a full-time position, employers at Durham University will be keen to see your genuine interest in finance. Be prepared to discuss recent industry trends or news articles that excite you, showcasing your enthusiasm and engagement with the field.
✨Network with Industry Professionals
Before your interview, reach out to current or former Durham University employees on platforms like LinkedIn. They'll offer unique insights into the company's culture and the interview process, which can give us a delightful edge in showcasing a good fit for the team.
