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 future education.
- Other info: Join a dynamic team in a complex, multi-college environment with excellent career growth.
- 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 Livingston 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 that values collaboration and transparency, staff are empowered to contribute meaningfully to the University's strategic goals. Located in a vibrant city, employees benefit from a rich cultural scene and access to world-class resources, making it an ideal place for professional growth and impactful work.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Director of Financial Reporting & Analysis in Livingston
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former employees at the University of Edinburgh on LinkedIn. A friendly chat can give us insider info about the role and the culture, plus it shows our genuine interest.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by diving deep into the University's 2030 Strategy. We need to show how our financial expertise aligns with their goals. Tailor our responses to highlight how we can drive transparency and accountability in their financial planning.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice makes perfect! Mock interviews with friends or mentors can help us refine our answers and boost our confidence. Focus on articulating our experience in financial analysis and strategic leadership clearly.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure our application gets noticed. Plus, we can keep track of our application status easily. Let’s make sure we stand out!
We think you need these skills to ace Director of Financial Reporting & Analysis in Livingston
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the role of Director of Financial Reporting & Analysis. Highlight your experience in financial planning, budgeting, and analysis, and don’t forget to showcase any leadership roles you've had in similar environments.
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. Mention specific experiences that align with the University’s 2030 Strategy and how you can contribute to their financial sustainability goals.
Showcase Your Soft Skills:While technical skills are crucial, don’t overlook the importance of soft skills. Emphasise your problem-solving abilities, decision-making skills, and how you’ve led teams in the past. This will show us that you can handle the complexities of a multi-college institution.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother application process. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you don’t miss out on any important updates regarding your application status.
How to prepare for a job interview at MORGAN PHILIPS UK LIMITED
✨Know Your Numbers
As a 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 influence strategic decisions and align with the University's 2030 Strategy.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
This role requires strong team leadership and stakeholder management. Think of examples from your past where you've successfully led teams or projects. Be ready to share how you foster collaboration and drive results in a complex 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 financial challenges or implement cost reduction strategies. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your responses.
✨Align with Their Vision
Understand the University’s mission and values. Be ready to articulate how your experience and vision align with their goals, especially regarding financial sustainability and academic ambitions. This shows that you're not just looking for a job, but are genuinely interested in contributing to their future.
