Research Finance Assistant Manager in Exeter

Research Finance Assistant Manager in Exeter

Exeter Full-Time 33951 - 33951 £ / year (est.) Home office (partial)
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At a Glance

  • Tasks: Manage financial elements of research projects and support budget planning.
  • Company: Join the University of Exeter's innovative PS Connect division.
  • Benefits: Flexible working, generous leave, competitive pension, and wellbeing initiatives.
  • Other info: Exciting opportunity for career growth in a dynamic, inclusive environment.
  • Why this job: Make a real impact in transforming professional services and supporting diverse communities.
  • Qualifications: Experience in finance management and strong organisational skills.

The predicted salary is between 33951 - 33951 £ per year.

This full-time post is available from 1st October 2026 for a period of 12 months. Applications for secondments will be considered subject to agreement from your current line manager.

The starting salary will be from £33,951 on Grade E, depending on knowledge, skills and experience. This role offers the opportunity for hybrid working - some time on campus and some from home. We welcome applications from candidates interested in working part-time hours or job-sharing arrangements.

Main purpose of the job: To take responsibility for key financial elements of the research project lifecycle including award set-up, live grant financial management, delegated financial authorization of expenditure, support for financial budget planning, forecasting and in-year monitoring in support of a portfolio of key stakeholders and projects. Where appropriate support both the research development and financial elements of the research project lifecycle for standard and complex research grants and contracts.

Please ensure you read the Job Description and Person Specification for full details of this role.

About The Division

As a Global Business Service, ‘PS Connect’ (a Division of the University of Exeter) is a critical enabler of our Strategy 2030. We bring together services from across HR, Finance, Strategic Procurement, Post Award Research, Travel and Business Operations and have expertise to support the division in areas such as Service Experience (which includes our Helpdesks and Reception services) and Service Improvement and Development. Recognised as a trusted enabler across the University, we are transforming professional services to be more user-focused, innovative, and efficient. We are maximising digital solutions, data, and user experience expertise to improve service delivery and customer outcomes.

This is strengthened by a strong commitment to the Voice of the Customer, enabling continuous improvement and co-created ways of working that drive strong engagement and satisfaction. We continually invest in our people to build a skilled, empowered, and high-performing workforce that underpins everything we achieve. PS Connect is increasingly recognised by senior leaders as an innovative disruptor and is shaping its future as a Global Business Service. This is an exciting time to join PS Connect as we continue to transform Professional Services across the University of Exeter.

About Us

We are committed to understanding different cultures and perspectives, supporting diverse leadership, and striving for social justice. We encourage applications from all groups underrepresented in our community, including racially minoritised individuals and those with disabilities. Our inclusive, merit-based recruitment processes seek to embrace a diverse set of experiences to ensure colleagues feel supported equitably. With over 30,000 students and 7,000 staff from 150 countries, we foster a culture where everyone can thrive.

You can read more about our current accreditations and commitment to Equality, Diversity and Inclusion here, including our commitment to the Armed Forces Covenant.

Why our colleagues love working here:

  • Flexible working opportunities and leading parental leave initiatives
  • Generous annual leave (39-41 days including bank holidays)
  • Competitive pension contributions
  • A genuine dedication to supporting the health and wellbeing of all colleagues
  • Sustainability and the environment being at the heart of what we do

Research Finance Assistant Manager in Exeter employer: Eurobioimaging

The University of Exeter is an exceptional employer, offering a supportive work culture that prioritises employee development and inclusivity. As a part-time Admin & Projects Lead, you will have the opportunity to make a meaningful impact on underrepresented student groups while gaining valuable experience in budgeting and project management within a prestigious academic environment.

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Contact Details:

Eurobioimaging Recruitment Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫

We think this is how you could land Research Finance Assistant Manager in Exeter

Tip Number 1: Tap Into Professional Networks

The finance world loves a good connection, so jump into industry-specific groups on platforms like LinkedIn where you can find discussions on financial controlling. Engaging in these communities can expose you to hidden job leads that aren't openly advertised!

Tip Number 2: Attend Finance Events and Conferences

Make it a mission to attend finance-related events and conferences, even virtual ones! This is a golden opportunity to network face-to-face with people from companies like Eurobioimaging. You never know who might be your next boss or a crucial contact!

Tip Number 3: Showcase Your Expertise

Consider writing articles or sharing insights related to financial controlling or industry trends. Publish these on platforms like LinkedIn to establish yourself as a knowledgeable player in the field. This not only increases your visibility but also catches the attention of recruiters from Eurobioimaging.

Tip Number 4: Apply Directly on Company Websites

Since you're going for a full-time gig, don't forget to keep an eye on the careers page of companies you're interested in, like Eurobioimaging. Many companies prefer candidates who apply through their website as it shows genuine interest and makes your application stand out!

We think you need these skills to ace Research Finance Assistant Manager in Exeter

Financial Management
Budget Planning
Forecasting
Grant Management
Expenditure Authorisation
Stakeholder Engagement
Analytical Skills

Some tips for your application 🫡

Show Off Your Numbers Game:In financial controlling, detail is everything! Make sure your CV showcases your proficiency with numbers—highlight any relevant experience in budgeting, forecasting, or working with financial software. Quantifying your past achievements will make you stand out, so don’t be shy about flaunting those impressive percentages or cost savings you've implemented.

Tailored Cover Letter is Key:Your cover letter is a chance to shine, especially for a full-time role. Use it to express your genuine interest in Eurobioimaging and the specific impact you hope to make in financial controlling. Mention any relevant qualifications or experiences that align with the company’s goals, and don’t forget to show that you're ready for a long-term commitment!

Certifications Matter:List relevant certifications such as ACCA or CIMA on your CV. These qualifications not only showcase your dedication to the field but also your technical competence in financial principles. If you have any ongoing training or courses, make sure to mention those as well to demonstrate your commitment to continual learning in financial controlling.

Don’t Overlook Soft Skills:While numbers are crucial, so are those soft skills! Financial controllers need strong communication and analytical reasoning abilities. We recommend embedding examples of these skills in your CV and cover letter, like how you’ve successfully delivered financial reports to stakeholders or collaborated with teams to improve processes. Let’s show Eurobioimaging how you can be a team player!

How to prepare for a job interview at Eurobioimaging

Brush Up on Technical Skills

Make sure you're comfortable with key financial concepts, especially around forecasting, budgeting, and variance analysis. Sometimes, interviewers may throw in technical questions or case studies, so practicing these types of scenarios will help you shine!

Showcase Your Financial Acumen

If you've had experience with specific financial software like SAP or Oracle, make it known! Be ready to discuss how you used these tools to improve processes or reporting, as this hands-on knowledge can really set you apart in a full-time role with Eurobioimaging.

Know Your Numbers

In full-time interviews, especially in financial controlling, be prepared for numerical reasoning tests or questions. Brush up on your mental maths and understand how to interpret and analyse financial statements on the spot, as this may come up during the assessment.

Connect with Company Goals

Familiarise yourself with Eurobioimaging's financial objectives and any recent developments. During the interview, try to weave your understanding of their business model and challenges into your answers—this shows your genuine interest and alignment with their goals!