At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead strategic financial planning and analysis for a top-ranked university.
- Company: The University of Edinburgh, a globally recognised institution with a focus on innovation.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, professional development, and the chance to shape the future of education.
- Other info: Join a dynamic team in a complex, multi-college research environment.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on financial sustainability and academic ambitions at a leading university.
- Qualifications: Fully qualified CCAB accountant with senior FP&A leadership experience.
The predicted salary is between 75000 - 100000 € per year.
The Organisation
The University of Edinburgh is a globally top-ranked, research-intensive university shaping the future of education, innovation, and societal impact. It is one of the world's leading universities, combining academic excellence and global reach, with over £1bn in annual scale. The University is a flagship, internationally recognised institution at the forefront of research, education, and global thought leadership.
Job Purpose
The Director of Financial Planning & Analysis provides strategic financial leadership across the University, ensuring that financial planning, budgeting, forecasting, and analysis directly supports the University's 2030 Strategy, academic ambitions, and financial sustainability goals. The role is central to delivering high quality insight, evidence-based decision support, and rigorous financial stewardship across a complex, multi-college research-intensive institution; it drives the strategic, forward-looking analytical function for the University. The postholder will lead the transformation of how the University plans, allocates, and measures the performance of its £1.4bn+ organisation, driving improved transparency, accountability, and value for money. This role is distinct from the Business Partnering as it does not provide operational support to within budget area decision makers.
Main responsibilities
- Strategic Financial Planning: Lead the development of the multi-year rolling financial plan. Shape the financial modelling that underpins strategic initiatives, academic plans, workforce strategies, research growth, and capital investment. Provide evidence-based advice to the CFO, the Senior Leadership Team, University Executive, and the University Court.
- Budgeting & Resource Allocation: Lead the development and approach for the University's annual budget cycle, ensuring clarity of assumptions, drivers, risks, and dependencies, building towards a fully integrated planning model. Ensure budgets are aligned to the University's strategy, risk appetite, and required savings trajectory. Develop, introduce and maintain a transparent and evidence-based budget area contribution model.
- Management Reporting: Financial Analysis & Insight. Strategic Financial Assurance in the delivery of business cases & change projects.
- Stakeholder Leadership: Team Leadership & Development of Planning & Analysis Team.
- Problem Solving: Decision Making.
The Person
Education, Qualifications & Training: Fully Qualified CCAB accountant with experience commensurate with the seniority of the role. Evidence of continuing professional development in financial reporting, audit or financial controls.
Knowledge & Experience: Proven senior level FP&A leadership experience in a complex, multi-stakeholder organisation. Deep experience in financial planning, budgeting, forecasting, reporting, and cost management. Strong track record of producing high quality financial insight for executive and board-level audiences. Experience of leading large scale cost reduction or transformation programmes.
Additional Information: The role holder must be eligible for appointment as a director for a University subsidiary company i.e., not precluded under UK Company law. Director's Duties training will be provided.
Director of Financial Reporting & Analysis in Edinburgh employer: MORGAN PHILIPS UK LIMITED
The University of Edinburgh is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment that fosters innovation and academic excellence. With a commitment to employee development and a culture of collaboration, staff are encouraged to grow professionally while contributing to impactful research and education. Located in the vibrant city of Edinburgh, employees benefit from a rich cultural scene and a supportive community dedicated to shaping the future of higher education.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Director of Financial Reporting & Analysis in Edinburgh
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the finance sector, especially those who have ties to universities or similar organisations. A friendly chat can lead to insider info about job openings that aren't even advertised yet.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by diving deep into the University of Edinburgh's financial strategies and recent initiatives. Show us you know your stuff and can bring valuable insights to the table – it’ll set you apart from the crowd!
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t just apply; engage! When you submit your application through our website, follow up with a personalised email expressing your enthusiasm for the role. It shows initiative and keeps you on our radar.
✨Tip Number 4
Practice your storytelling skills. In interviews, we want to hear about your past experiences and how they relate to the role. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your answers and make them memorable.
We think you need these skills to ace Director of Financial Reporting & Analysis in Edinburgh
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV reflects the skills and experiences that align with the Director of Financial Reporting & Analysis role. Highlight your strategic financial leadership experience and any relevant achievements that showcase your ability to drive financial planning and analysis.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're the perfect fit for this role at the University of Edinburgh. Be sure to mention how your background aligns with their 2030 Strategy and how you can contribute to their financial sustainability goals.
Showcase Your Leadership Skills:Since this role involves leading teams and driving change, make sure to highlight your leadership experience. Share examples of how you've successfully led financial planning initiatives or transformation programmes in previous roles.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website for a smoother application process. This way, we can ensure your application gets the attention it deserves and you can stay updated on your application status!
How to prepare for a job interview at MORGAN PHILIPS UK LIMITED
✨Know Your Numbers
As a candidate for the Director of Financial Reporting & Analysis, you need to be on top of your financial game. Brush up on key financial metrics and trends relevant to the University of Edinburgh. Be prepared to discuss how these numbers can inform strategic decisions and align with the University's 2030 Strategy.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
This role requires strong leadership in financial planning and analysis. Think of examples from your past where you've led teams or initiatives that resulted in significant improvements. Be ready to share how you foster collaboration and drive performance within a multi-stakeholder environment.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect questions that assess your problem-solving abilities and decision-making skills. Prepare scenarios where you've had to navigate complex budgeting or resource allocation challenges. Highlight your analytical approach and how it led to successful outcomes.
✨Align with Their Vision
The University is focused on transparency, accountability, and value for money. Research their current financial strategies and be ready to discuss how your vision aligns with theirs. Show them that you understand their goals and can contribute to achieving them through innovative financial planning.
