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- Tasks: Lead financial control and ensure robust frameworks across the University.
- Company: Top 10 world-ranked University with a £2bn balance sheet.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, professional development, and a chance to shape financial strategies.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in financial leadership while driving sustainability initiatives.
- Qualifications: Qualified accountant with experience in large organisations and team leadership.
- Other info: Join a dynamic team and contribute to ambitious capital development plans.
The predicted salary is between 72000 - 108000 £ per year.
With our Top 10 world ranking, a £2bn balance sheet and an ambitious 10-year capital development plan, including our commitment to net zero carbon by 2040 and the next stage of our White City Deep Tech Campus, we are looking for a Director of Financial Control to help ensure a robust financial control framework across the University. You will be part of the Finance Leadership team, providing high quality specialist financial services (e.g. Financial Accounting, Tax, Treasury, Insurance) and delivering the key operational financial processes (e.g. Purchase to Pay, Order to Cash).
We are looking for a collaborative and values-driven individual with a strong track record of driving financial control in complex organisations. This is a pivotal leadership role where you’ll oversee and continually enhance Imperial’s financial control framework maintaining our Financial Regulations, Policies and Risk Register, partnering with Internal Audit, and acting as the University’s Money Laundering Reporting Officer. You’ll ensure our accounting policies meet sector standards (including SORP) and lead the production of the Annual Report and Financial Statements, managing all aspects of our external audit relationships.
You’ll drive excellence in our finance operations, championing process improvements, resolving complex transactional issues and overseeing accurate and timely tax submissions. Your insight will shape our approach to tax, treasury and insurance, ensuring these strategies align with the University’s broader risk appetite. As a senior leader, you’ll inspire and develop a high‑performing team while representing Finance across key boards and committees. You’ll build strong internal and external networks and, when required, act as a trusted deputy to the CFO making this an exceptional opportunity to contribute at the highest level of financial leadership.
What we are looking for:
- A qualified accountant with experience in a similar role in a large, complex organisation
- Experience of leading large teams (more than 40 individuals)
- Experience of engaging at a senior level with external auditors
- Up‑to‑date accounting knowledge and a proactive approach to learning and applying new accounting standards
- Financial risk management strategies
- Strong relationship building skills
- Effective influencing skills, including senior leadership
- Pro‑active, energetic and highly responsive with a service mindset
- Independent thinker, able to identify solutions to complex issues
- Able to be assertive when required and retain colleagues trust and respect
- Attention to detail, whilst keeping sight of big picture
- Able to inspire and develop staff to achieve their full potential
Director of Financial Control in London employer: Imperial College London
Contact Detail:
Imperial College London Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Director of Financial Control in London
✨Network Like a Pro
Get out there and connect with people in the finance sector! Attend industry events, join relevant online forums, and don’t be shy about reaching out on LinkedIn. Building relationships can open doors to opportunities that aren’t even advertised.
✨Showcase Your Expertise
When you get the chance to chat with potential employers, make sure to highlight your experience in financial control and team leadership. Share specific examples of how you've driven improvements in complex organisations – this will set you apart from the crowd!
✨Prepare for Interviews
Do your homework before interviews! Understand the University’s financial goals and challenges, especially around their ambitious capital development plan. Be ready to discuss how your skills align with their needs and how you can contribute to their vision.
✨Apply Through Our Website
Don’t forget to apply directly through our website! It shows your genuine interest in the role and gives us a chance to see your application in the best light. Plus, it’s the easiest way to stay updated on your application status.
We think you need these skills to ace Director of Financial Control in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter to highlight how your experience aligns with the role of Director of Financial Control. Use keywords from the job description to show that you understand what we’re looking for.
Showcase Your Leadership Skills: Since this is a senior role, it’s crucial to demonstrate your experience in leading large teams. Share specific examples of how you've inspired and developed your team members in previous positions.
Highlight Your Financial Expertise: We want to see your up-to-date accounting knowledge and experience with financial risk management. Be sure to mention any relevant qualifications and how you've applied them in complex organisations.
Engage with Us: Don’t hesitate to reach out if you have questions about the application process or the role itself. We encourage you to apply through our website and look forward to seeing how you can contribute to our finance leadership team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Imperial College London
✨Know Your Numbers
As a candidate for the Director of Financial Control, you need to be on top of your financial game. Brush up on key financial metrics and frameworks relevant to the role, such as SORP and risk management strategies. Be prepared to discuss how you've applied these in previous roles.
✨Showcase Leadership Experience
This role requires leading large teams, so come ready with examples of how you've successfully managed and inspired teams of over 40 individuals. Highlight specific challenges you faced and how you overcame them to drive performance and engagement.
✨Engage with External Auditors
Since you'll be working closely with external auditors, it’s crucial to demonstrate your experience in this area. Prepare to discuss your approach to building relationships with auditors and how you've navigated complex audit processes in the past.
✨Demonstrate Strategic Thinking
The role involves shaping financial strategies that align with the university's risk appetite. Be ready to share your insights on financial control frameworks and how you've implemented process improvements in previous positions. Show that you can think independently and provide solutions to complex issues.
