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- Tasks: Support project management with financial advice and analysis at the National Oceanography Centre.
- Company: Join the UK's leading institution for ocean research and innovation.
- Benefits: Enjoy 30 days leave, a great pension scheme, and flexible working options.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on marine science while developing your finance skills.
- Qualifications: Part/qualified accountant with strong analytical skills and ERP experience preferred.
- Other info: Dynamic work environment with social events and a commitment to diversity.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
Join to apply for the Finance Business Partner role at National Oceanography Centre.
Location: National Oceanography Centre, Southampton
Fixed Term Appointment (15 Months – Maternity Cover)
Full time (37 hours per week)
Start Date: March/April 2026
About the National Oceanography Centre:
We are the National Oceanography Centre (NOC) - the UK’s leading institution for integrated coastal and deep ocean research. Through our ground‑breaking research, collaboration, and game‑changing innovation we work to gain a deeper understanding of our ocean, helping every living thing on our planet flourish. We are made up of a dynamic and vibrant community focused on solving challenging long‑term marine science problems, underpinning international and UK public policy, business and societal outcomes.
About the role:
The Finance Business Partner will actively be involved in business partnering to provide specialist advice and analysis to support Group Heads, senior scientists, and researchers in managing projects through their whole lifecycle. They will be responsible for managing the administration of a wide range of projects that fall under the Division they support. The role will include project and budget set up including advice on costing (where appropriate), budgeting, forecasting and financial reporting to stakeholders both internal and external. The Finance Business Partner will take an active lead within the organisation to monitor risk, ensure financial reporting accuracy, improve systems, introduce good governance, and manage/review the financial processes.
About you:
We are looking for a part/qualified accountant that is commercially astute, tenacious, and very dynamic. The individual will be able to work at all levels, grasping detail, understanding data structures while being able to apply accounting practices to complex situations. Experience working with Unit4 or other ERPs would be advantageous.
Why NOC?
- 30 days contractual annual leave, plus 3.5 extra closure days and bank holidays
- 10% employer contribution pension scheme (with a 15% NI saving on employee contributions made above 5%, if in the salary sacrifice scheme)
- Financial support for relocation
- Access to our Employee Assistance Programme, offering free and anonymous support on mental, physical, emotional, health and financial issues
- Access to a flexible benefits portal offering online discounts, cashback and eGift cards
- A Cycle2Work scheme allowing employees to acquire bikes and accessories
- A great working environment with a number of social events, including summer and Christmas celebrations
- We are proud to be a Living Wage Employer
Location:
This position will be based in Southampton. The centre is well connected by public transport and has ample cycle parking in addition to free onsite car‑parking with over 40 EV charging points. We have a hybrid working approach where for most positions staff can work from home up to 2 days per week.
If you are interested in this position, but require a more flexible working arrangement, please contact the recruitment team using the contact details below.
Submitting an application:
Please click ‘Apply for this job’ and submit an up‑to‑date CV and cover letter. If you are unable to apply online, please contact the NOC recruitment team at careers@noc.ac.uk / 07355 676794.
EEO statement:
We are committed to fostering diversity and inclusion in our workplace. We actively encourage qualified candidates from all backgrounds to apply for this position, as we strive to create a supportive and equitable environment where all voices are valued and heard.
Closing date:
Closing date: 15/01/2025. This vacancy may close earlier depending on the number of applicants.
Recruitment policy:
Please note we are not accepting applications via recruitment agencies for this position.
Finance Business Partner in Southampton employer: National Oceanography Centre
Contact Detail:
National Oceanography Centre Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Finance Business Partner in Southampton
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former employees at the National Oceanography Centre on LinkedIn. A friendly chat can give you insider info and maybe even a referral!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by researching the NOC's recent projects and initiatives. Show us that you're genuinely interested in their work and how your skills as a Finance Business Partner can contribute.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice common interview questions, especially those related to finance and project management. We want to see how you handle complex situations and your thought process behind financial decisions.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, it shows us you’re serious about joining the NOC team.
We think you need these skills to ace Finance Business Partner in Southampton
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the Finance Business Partner role. Highlight relevant experience and skills that match the job description, especially your financial reporting and project management expertise.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're the perfect fit for the NOC. Mention specific projects or experiences that demonstrate your ability to support senior scientists and manage budgets effectively.
Showcase Your Soft Skills: Don’t forget to highlight your soft skills! Being commercially astute and tenacious is key for this role, so share examples of how you've successfully navigated complex situations in the past.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the easiest way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for the role without any hiccups!
How to prepare for a job interview at National Oceanography Centre
✨Know Your Numbers
As a Finance Business Partner, you'll need to demonstrate your financial acumen. Brush up on key financial metrics and be ready to discuss how you've used data to drive decisions in past roles. This shows you can apply your knowledge practically.
✨Understand the NOC's Mission
Familiarise yourself with the National Oceanography Centre's goals and recent projects. Being able to articulate how your skills align with their mission will set you apart. Show them you're not just interested in the role, but also in contributing to their impactful work.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect questions that ask how you'd handle specific financial challenges or project management scenarios. Think of examples from your experience where you successfully navigated similar situations. This will highlight your problem-solving skills and adaptability.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
At the end of the interview, have a few thoughtful questions ready about the team dynamics, project expectations, or the tools they use like Unit4. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you assess if it's the right fit for you.
