At a Glance
- Tasks: Provide financial insights and support budgeting for effective decision-making.
- Company: Join Lancaster University, a top-ranked institution with a global reputation.
- Benefits: Enjoy 25 days annual leave, hybrid working, and professional development opportunities.
- Other info: Collaborative environment with a focus on work-life balance and continuous improvement.
- Why this job: Make a real impact by turning financial data into actionable insights.
- Qualifications: Experience in finance and strong analytical skills required.
The predicted salary is between 33002 - 37694 £ per year.
Location: Bailrigg, Lancaster, UK
Salary: £33,002 to £37,694 full time, fixed term
Closing Date: Wednesday 10 June 2026
Interview Date: Monday 15 June 2026
Reference: 0441-26
Finance Division - Bailrigg Campus (Hybrid Working Available)
Lancaster University is an established thriving UK university with a world‑class reputation for excellence in research, teaching and engagement. Lancaster is consistently ranked in the top universities in all three major UK league tables and continues to build a growing reputation both nationally and internationally.
About the Role
Lancaster University is seeking a motivated and proactive Senior Finance Analyst to join our Financial Planning & Analysis (FP&A) team. This role will support Professional Services and other non‑faculty areas providing high‑quality financial insight to support effective planning, budgeting and decision‑making. Working closely with the Finance Partner and colleagues across the Finance Division, you will support budget holders and senior colleagues by delivering accurate reporting, analysis and financial advice.
Key Responsibilities
- Produce timely and accurate management reports and financial analysis
- Assist budget holders in monitoring financial performance and understanding variances
- Support the preparation of annual budgets and in‑year forecasts
- Contribute to business planning and financial modelling activities
- Support financial processes and reporting improvements
- Build effective working relationships with finance and non‑finance colleagues
- Ensure compliance with financial policies, procedures and deadlines
About You
We are looking for a collaborative and analytical finance professional who can turn financial data into clear insight. You will bring:
- Experience in a finance, management accounting or financial analysis role
- Strong analytical skills with excellent attention to detail
- Confidence explaining financial information to non‑finance stakeholders
- Good organisational skills and the ability to manage competing deadlines
- Strong Excel skills and experience using financial systems and reporting tools
- A proactive, service‑focused approach and commitment to continuous improvement
You will be:
- AAT qualified or able to demonstrate equivalent relevant experience
- Actively studying towards (or willing to study towards) a recognised professional accountancy qualification (CIMA or CCAB)
What We Offer
- 25 days annual leave plus University closure days at Christmas and Easter
- Hybrid working arrangements
- Opportunities for professional development
- Flexible benefits package
- Family‑friendly and work‑life balance policies
Applicants must meet all the essential criteria on the Person Specification to be considered for interview. Lancaster University promotes equality of opportunity and diversity within the workplace and welcomes applications from all sections of the community.
For an informal discussion about the role, please contact Iqbal Hasan, Director of Financial Planning & Analysis.
Please note: unless specified otherwise in the advert, all advertised roles are UK based.
Senior Finance Analyst in England employer: Lancaster University
Lancaster University is an exceptional employer, offering a supportive and collaborative work environment that prioritises professional development and work-life balance. With hybrid working options and a flexible benefits package, employees can thrive both personally and professionally while contributing to a world-class institution renowned for its excellence in research and teaching.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Finance Analyst in England
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former employees at Lancaster University on LinkedIn. A friendly chat can give us insider info about the role and help you stand out during interviews.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for those tricky interview questions! Think about how your experience aligns with the key responsibilities listed in the job description. We want to hear how you’ve tackled similar challenges in the past.
✨Tip Number 3
Show off your Excel skills! Be ready to demonstrate your proficiency during the interview. Maybe even bring along a sample report or analysis you've done to showcase your analytical prowess.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining our team at Lancaster University.
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Finance Analyst in England
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the Senior Finance Analyst role. Highlight your experience in finance, management accounting, or financial analysis, and don’t forget to showcase those strong analytical skills we’re looking for!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you’re the perfect fit for our FP&A team. Mention your proactive approach and how you can turn financial data into clear insights that help with planning and decision-making.
Showcase Your Skills:We want to see your Excel skills in action! If you have experience with financial systems and reporting tools, make sure to mention that. It’s all about demonstrating how you can contribute to our financial processes and improvements.
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us directly. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining our team at Lancaster University.
How to prepare for a job interview at Lancaster University
✨Know Your Numbers
As a Senior Finance Analyst, you'll need to demonstrate your analytical skills. Brush up on key financial metrics and be ready to discuss how you've used data to drive decisions in previous roles. Prepare examples that showcase your ability to turn complex financial information into actionable insights.
✨Understand the Role
Make sure you thoroughly understand the responsibilities outlined in the job description. Familiarise yourself with financial planning, budgeting, and reporting processes. This will help you answer questions confidently and show that you're genuinely interested in the role and its impact on the organisation.
✨Build Rapport
During the interview, focus on building effective working relationships with your interviewers. Use their names, engage in conversation, and show enthusiasm for collaborating with both finance and non-finance colleagues. This will highlight your collaborative nature, which is essential for the role.
✨Prepare Questions
Have a few thoughtful questions ready to ask at the end of the interview. Inquire about the team's current projects or challenges they face in financial analysis. This not only shows your interest but also gives you insight into the role and how you can contribute effectively.
