At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead financial operations and support impactful ministry through effective financial management.
- Company: Join a global Christian ministry dedicated to empowering students worldwide.
- Benefits: Flexible working, generous leave, pension contributions, and life insurance.
- Other info: Work in a multicultural environment with opportunities for personal and professional growth.
- Why this job: Use your finance skills to make a difference in students' lives globally.
- Qualifications: Qualified accountant with experience in charity finance and strong leadership skills.
Do you want to use your expertise in Finance to serve God and see people thrive? Are you passionate about students around the world encountering Jesus? Then, join the team and use your Finance skills to build strong teams that provide fruitful ministry around the world.
Role: Financial Controller
Salary: Band E (£39,827-£45,358)
Contract: Permanent
Hours: Full-time
Location: Oxford, Hybrid (60% office based)
Benefits: Flexible and hybrid working options; 10% employer pension contribution; life insurance; generous annual leave allowance.
APPLICATION DEADLINE: 5.00pm, Friday 11 September
INTERVIEW DATES:
- 1st Round Interviews: Online interviews will be held during the week of 21-25 September 2026.
- 2nd Round Interviews: In-person interviews will be held in Oxford during the week of 28 September-2 October 2026.
Join a movement of students sharing and living out the good news of Jesus Christ. Locally. Nationally. Globally.
The ministry is supported behind the scenes by International Services based in Asia, the UK, and the USA. The organisation supports and connects students living out the gospel as witnesses in the university in more than 180 countries worldwide. At the heart of everything is the desire to see students thriving as communities of disciples, transformed by the gospel and impacting the university, the church, and society for the glory of Christ.
ABOUT THE ROLE
To assist in this work, we are looking for an experienced and qualified finance professional who can provide strong leadership across our financial operations while maintaining a robust control environment.
As a key member of the Finance team, you will:
- Combine technical accounting expertise with excellent people management skills, ensuring accurate and efficient financial processes that support effective decision-making across the organisation.
- Be a fully qualified accountant (or have equivalent experience) with a strong understanding of charity finance, financial reporting requirements, and internal controls.
- Be comfortable working with financial systems and data; you'll have experience overseeing transactional finance processes, managing budgets, producing financial reports, and leading audits.
As a global Christian ministry, we particularly value candidates who thrive in multicultural environments, demonstrate humility and integrity in their work, and are motivated to use their professional skills in service of our mission and values.
ABOUT YOU
The successful candidate will be:
- A qualified accountant (or have equivalent experience).
- Proactive, organised, and solutions-focused, with the ability to identify improvements and implement change.
- An effective communicator who can build strong relationships across a diverse international organisation, explaining financial matters clearly to both finance and non-finance colleagues.
- Experienced at managing and developing staff.
- Able to balance attention to detail with a strategic understanding of the bigger picture.
We’re searching for someone with a positive experience of working in a team, as well as the ability to prioritise and meet deadlines. If you recognise the importance of evangelical student ministry, are confident in your ability to work in a multi-cultural setting and are looking for a fulfilling role in a forward-thinking team, we would love to hear from you.
You can find out more information about the job in the Role Profile when you click to apply.
The primary calling is to pioneer and nurture a nationally led student witness in every country of the world. The work of International Services is to support this frontline ministry. Join an organisation with a distinctive Christian ethos. This post is subject to an Occupational Requirement under provisions made in the Equality Act 2010. Applicants should therefore demonstrate a firm Christian commitment and agree with the IFES doctrinal basis and ethos statement. This job will not qualify for a Certificate of Sponsorship, so you will have to prove you have the right to work in the UK before we would consider your application.
Financial Controller in Oxford employer: IFES
IFES is an exceptional employer that fosters a supportive and collaborative work culture, where employees are encouraged to grow both personally and professionally. With a focus on meaningful relationships and impactful work, you will have access to comprehensive training and development opportunities, allowing you to thrive in your role as a Senior Commercial Finance Manager. Located in a vibrant community, IFES offers a unique chance to contribute to a global mission while enjoying the benefits of a fulfilling and purpose-driven career.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Financial Controller in Oxford
✨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 IFES. 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 Financial Controller in Oxford
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 IFES.
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 IFES'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 IFES
✨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 IFES.
✨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 IFES 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 IFES 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.
