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- Tasks: Provide financial insights and analysis to support strategic decision-making.
- Company: Join a world-leading institution committed to using science for humanity.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, 41 days annual leave, and flexible working options.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on financial performance and drive change in a dynamic environment.
- Qualifications: Qualified Accountant with experience in senior finance roles and strong analytical skills.
- Other info: Be part of a diverse and inclusive culture with excellent career growth opportunities.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 ÂŁ per year.
The Head of Finance (University Secretary and Education) is a crucial role within the wider Business Partnering team. You must be passionate and knowledgeable about the areas you support, acting as a trusted advisor, providing a clear “voice of the customer” input to colleagues across Finance. You will work closely with the stakeholders as the reliable, go to point of contact and will be responsible for providing comprehensive robust data, analysis, financial insights and recommendations to enable data‑driven decision‑making and strategic planning. This role involves close collaboration with senior leadership, working together to shape, develop and deliver financially sustainable departmental plans, offering financial expertise to help drive financial performance. This role provides an excellent opportunity to gain an insight into the finances of Imperial and add value to its financial decision‑making.
What you would be doing:
- Provide comprehensive financial analysis and insights to support decision making.
- Analyse financial data to identify value drivers, trends, opportunities, and risks and propose strategies to mitigate and/or capitalise on them.
- Partner with department heads and operational managers to develop strategic plans and initiatives, ensuring alignment with longer term Imperial wide strategic financial planning.
- Manage the financial planning, forecasting, budget monitoring and support the year end cycle at a group level.
- Work with the Management Accountants to ensure these plans and initiatives are captured in the annual financial budgets and forecasts cycles.
- Present fact‑based analyses of cost drivers and financial sustainability so that departments can understand their options and make needed trade‑offs.
- Support University wide culture change initiatives by understanding and anticipating the need for change and building the case for change with stakeholders.
- Partner and collaborate with colleagues across Finance to shape solutions and deliver a high value service to customers.
- Play a crucial role supporting project teams with the design, implementation and adoption of Imperial wide improvements.
What we are looking for:
- A Qualified Accountant
- Immediate start
- Experience in a similar senior finance role in a large complex organisation
- Proven record of representing finance to internal and external stakeholders.
- Experience working closely with senior management, providing financial analysis to support strategic decision making.
- Demonstrate strong in‑depth knowledge of financial management, practices, and procedures.
- Possess the ability to quickly grasp and communicate complex issues clearly, concisely, sensitively, assertively and diplomatically.
- Pro‑active individual who identifies opportunities and continually looks to improve processes.
What we can offer you:
- The opportunity to continue your career at a world‑leading institution and be part of our mission to use science for humanity.
- Benefit from a sector‑leading salary and remuneration package (including 41 days’ annual leave and generous pension schemes).
- Access to a range of workplace benefits including a flexible working policy from day one, generous family leave packages, on‑site leisure facilities and cycle‑to‑work scheme.
- Interest‑free season ticket loan schemes for travel.
- Be part of a diverse, inclusive and collaborative work culture with various staff networks and resources to support your personal and professional wellbeing.
This is a full‑time (35 hours per week) role in Imperial’s Finance team. This role is for a fixed‑term contract for 16 months. Due to the nature of this role, we will be shortlisting candidates as applications are received. We therefore reserve the right to close this vacancy as soon as a suitable candidate has been appointed. It is therefore advisable that you submit your application as possible to avoid disappointment. Candidates are required to complete an online application.
If you require any further details about the role, please contact: Bernadette Kuforiji b.kuforiji@imperial.ac.uk.
Head of Finance - University Secretary and Education employer: Imperial College London
Contact Detail:
Imperial College London Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Finance - University Secretary and Education
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the finance sector, especially those who have experience in large organisations. A friendly chat can lead to insider info about job openings or even a referral.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the company and its financial strategies. Show that you’re not just a numbers person but also someone who understands the bigger picture and can contribute to strategic planning.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your communication skills! As a Head of Finance, you'll need to explain complex financial data clearly. Try mock interviews with friends or use online platforms to refine your pitch.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive about their job search.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Finance - University Secretary and Education
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion: When you're writing your application, let your passion for finance and education shine through. We want to see that you’re not just qualified, but genuinely excited about the role and how you can contribute to our mission.
Tailor Your Experience: Make sure to highlight your relevant experience in senior finance roles. We’re looking for someone who can demonstrate a proven track record of working with stakeholders and providing financial insights, so be specific about your achievements!
Be Clear and Concise: We appreciate clarity! When discussing your skills and experiences, keep it straightforward and to the point. Use bullet points if necessary to make your application easy to read and digest.
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity. We can’t wait to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at Imperial College London
✨Know Your Numbers
As the Head of Finance, you'll need to demonstrate a solid grasp of financial data. Brush up on key metrics and trends relevant to the university's finances. Be prepared to discuss how you've used data to drive decision-making in previous roles.
✨Showcase Your Stakeholder Skills
This role involves working closely with senior management and various departments. Think of examples where you've successfully collaborated with stakeholders to achieve financial goals. Highlight your ability to communicate complex financial concepts clearly and diplomatically.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect questions that assess your problem-solving skills and strategic thinking. Prepare scenarios where you've identified financial risks or opportunities and how you proposed solutions. This will show your proactive approach and ability to add value.
✨Understand the University’s Financial Landscape
Familiarise yourself with Imperial's financial structure and any recent changes in their financial strategy. Being knowledgeable about the institution will not only impress your interviewers but also help you tailor your responses to align with their goals.
