At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a high-performing finance team and shape management accounting transformation at a top university.
- Company: Join Imperial College London, a world-leading institution with a focus on innovation.
- Benefits: Enjoy hybrid working, generous leave, and comprehensive health support.
- Other info: Opportunities for professional development and a supportive work-life balance.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in finance while advancing your career in a prestigious environment.
- Qualifications: Fully qualified accountant with proven leadership and management accounting expertise.
The predicted salary is between 58500 - 71500 £ per year.
Imperial College London is partnering exclusively with Robertson Bell to recruit a Head of Management Accounting on a permanent basis.
This is an exceptional opportunity to join one of the world's leading universities in a senior finance leadership position at a pivotal time for the them.
Imperial is investing significantly in the future of its Finance function through the implementation of Oracle Fusion, bringing enhanced business intelligence capabilities and the modernisation of their management accounting processes.
As Head of Management Accounting, you will play a central role in shaping this transformation whilst leading a high-performing team responsible for delivering financial insight across the University's extensive non-academic portfolio.
The role
- Lead and develop a high-performing management accounting function of 11 finance professionals, creating a collaborative, high-performing culture centred on continuous improvement and exceptional customer service.
- Oversee management accounting and financial reporting for more than 30 support service departments, responsible for approximately £320m of annual expenditure and £185m of capital investment programmes.
- Lead budgeting, forecasting and month-end reporting, ensuring timely, accurate and insightful financial information that supports strategic decision making across the University.
- Act as the finance lead for the continued optimisation of Oracle Fusion, driving process redesign, standardisation, automation and the adoption of AI to improve efficiency and reporting capability.
- Oversee financial accounting and statutory reporting for key University subsidiaries, whilst leading external audit activity and ensuring compliance with FRS102.
- Partner with senior leaders across Finance and Professional Services, providing commercial insight, challenging assumptions and influencing strategic decision making.
- Work closely with the Finance Business Intelligence team to further develop reporting capability through Power BI and data-driven insights.
- Champion continuous improvement by reviewing existing processes, strengthening controls and embedding best practice across the management accounting function.
Fully qualified accountant (ACA, ACCA, CIMA, CPA or CCAB).
- Proven leadership experience managing and developing finance teams.
- Strong management accounting, budgeting and forecasting expertise within a large, complex organisation.
- Experience leading process improvement, harmonisation and finance transformation initiatives.
- Excellent stakeholder management skills, with the ability to influence and challenge senior leaders.
- Strong technical accounting knowledge, including FRS102.
- Excellent analytical skills, attention to detail and the ability to communicate complex financial information clearly.
Experience within Higher Education, knowledge of TRAC, Oracle Fusion or Power BI would be advantageous but is not essential.
The opportunity to continue your career at a world-leading institution and be part of our mission to deliver world-class teaching and learning.
You'll benefit from an outstanding working environment, genuine opportunities for professional development and a comprehensive reward package designed to support your career, wellbeing and work-life balance.
Benefits include
- Hybrid working (2-3 days per week office based working)
- Competitive pension scheme.
- Generous annual leave (27 days plus campus closures and Bank Holidays), with the option to purchase additional leave.
- Comprehensive health and wellbeing support, including an Employee Assistance Programme, discounted sports facilities and occupational health services.
- Excellent family-friendly policies, enhanced parental & carers leave & childcare initiatives.
- Extensive learning and development opportunities to support your long-term career progression.
- A wide range of employee discounts, travel schemes and lifestyle benefits.
This is a permanent, full-time position based at Imperial College London's White City Campus, operating on a hybrid working model.
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Head of Management Accounting in London employer: Imperial College London
As a Section Manager at Imperial College, you will thrive in a world-renowned institution dedicated to advancing research for the benefit of humanity. Enjoy a competitive salary and an impressive benefits package, including 41 days of annual leave, flexible working options, and access to on-site leisure facilities. Join a diverse and inclusive work culture that prioritises your personal and professional growth, making it an exceptional place to build your career.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Management Accounting in London
✨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 Imperial College London. 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 Head of Management Accounting in London
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 Imperial College London.
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 Imperial College London'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 Imperial College London
✨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 Imperial College London.
✨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 Imperial College London 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 Imperial College London 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.