At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead financial planning and analysis to support strategic decisions in a dynamic higher education institution.
- Company: Join a globally recognised London-based higher education institution known for creativity and inclusivity.
- Benefits: Enjoy 34 days of annual leave, flexible working, and generous pension contributions.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on financial management while collaborating with senior stakeholders.
- Qualifications: Qualified accountant with strong analytical skills and experience in financial planning.
- Other info: Be part of finance transformation projects and enhance your career in a vibrant environment.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
Job Description
Ivy Rock Partners are delighted to be supporting a leading London-based higher education institution recognised globally for its creativity, inclusivity, and academic excellence. The organisation combines world-class teaching and research with a vibrant, collaborative culture, making it an exceptional place to work and develop your skillset.
The opportunity:
We are seeking two Senior Finance Analysts to join the central finance team on fixed-term contracts of 9 months and 18 months. These roles sit at the heart of the organisation’s financial planning and analysis function, providing high-quality insight to support strategic and operational decision-making.
The positions offer an excellent opportunity to play a key role in the financial management of a complex and innovative institution, working with senior stakeholders to enhance performance, data integrity, and financial understanding.
Key responsibilities:
- Lead and deliver financial planning, forecasting, and analysis to inform strategic and operational decisions
- Prepare and present management accounts, variance analysis, and financial performance reports
- Develop and maintain robust financial models, performing scenario and sensitivity analysis
- Work confidently with large and complex data sets, ensuring accuracy, insight, and compliance
- Contribute to statutory accounts preparation and external reporting, ensuring accuracy and adherence to accounting standards
- Support cashflow forecasting, business planning, and audit preparation
- Partner with colleagues across Finance and senior leadership to strengthen financial processes and insight
- Play an active role in finance transformation projects, including chart of accounts redesign and data model development
About you:
You will be a skilled finance professional who combines strong analytical expertise with excellent communication and stakeholder management skills.
Essential experience / qualifications:
- Qualified accountant (ACA, ACCA, CIMA or equivalent)
- Significant experience in financial planning and analysis (FP&A) or senior analytical roles
- Proven ability to manage and interpret large, complex data sets
- Strong understanding of statutory accounts and financial reporting requirements
- Excellent Excel and financial modelling skills
- Confident presenting complex financial information clearly to non-financial audiences
Desirable experience:
- Experience within higher education, public sector, or large multi-entity organisations
- Involvement in finance data or systems transformation projects
Benefits:
- Generous annual leave (34 days excluding bank holidays) plus 2 days’ paid volunteering leave.
- Discounted medical insurance and eye care benefits.
- Pension scheme with competitive employer contribution (e.g., LGPS) for eligible staff.
- Flexible and hybrid working arrangements (flexible hours and dynamic working policy).
- Discounts and interest-free loans for travel, tech purchases, lifestyle brands, gym/fitness centre access, nursery fees and more
- Defined LGPS pension scheme
- Staff development support
For a confidential conversation about the role please get in touch with Megan Hunter.
Senior Finance Analyst FTC employer: Ivy Rock Partners Ltd
Contact Detail:
Ivy Rock Partners Ltd Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Finance Analyst FTC
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the finance sector, especially those who have experience in higher education. A friendly chat can lead to insider info about job openings or even a referral.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by brushing up on your financial modelling skills and understanding the specific challenges faced by institutions like the one you're applying to. Show them you know your stuff and can bring value to their team!
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t underestimate the power of follow-ups! After an interview, drop a quick thank-you email to express your appreciation and reiterate your interest in the role. It keeps you fresh in their minds.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website for the best chance at landing that Senior Finance Analyst role. We want to see your application and help you get your foot in the door at this fantastic institution!
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Finance Analyst FTC
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV reflects the skills and experiences that match the Senior Finance Analyst role. Highlight your financial planning and analysis experience, and don’t forget to showcase your ability to manage complex data sets!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you’re passionate about this role and how your background makes you a perfect fit. Be sure to mention any relevant experience in higher education or similar sectors.
Showcase Your Analytical Skills: Since this role requires strong analytical expertise, provide examples of how you've successfully used data to inform decisions in previous roles. This will help us see your problem-solving abilities in action!
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website for a smoother application process. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and keep track of all the amazing candidates like you!
How to prepare for a job interview at Ivy Rock Partners Ltd
✨Know Your Numbers
As a Senior Finance Analyst, you'll be expected to handle complex data sets. Brush up on your financial modelling skills and be ready to discuss specific examples of how you've used data to drive decisions. Prepare to explain your thought process behind financial forecasts and analyses.
✨Master the Art of Communication
You’ll need to present complex financial information to non-financial stakeholders. Practice simplifying your explanations and using visuals if possible. Think about how you can make your insights relatable and actionable for those who may not have a finance background.
✨Showcase Your Stakeholder Management Skills
This role involves working closely with senior leadership and various departments. Be prepared to share examples of how you've successfully collaborated with others in the past. Highlight your ability to build relationships and influence decision-making through your financial insights.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Given the nature of financial planning and analysis, expect scenario-based questions during your interview. Think about potential challenges you might face in this role and how you would approach them. This will demonstrate your analytical thinking and problem-solving abilities.