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For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead financial management and support the Head of Finance in delivering excellent services.
- Company: Join the University of Oxford's dynamic Department for Continuing Education.
- Benefits: Enjoy 38 days of annual leave, a great pension scheme, and family-friendly perks.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in finance while working in a prestigious environment.
- Qualifications: Degree-level education or equivalent experience in finance required.
- Other info: Hybrid working available; be part of a diverse and inclusive community.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 ÂŁ per year.
Oxford Lifelong Learning in the Department for Continuing Education is seeking to appoint a Deputy Head of Finance to join our Finance Team. We are keen to appoint an enthusiastic manager to support the development of our finance team and to support the Head of Finance to deliver an excellent finance service to the department.
About the Role
The Deputy Head of Finance is a key management position within the Department assuming full operational responsibility for financial management when required and deputizing for the Head of Finance (Governance). Reporting directly to the Head of Finance (Governance), you will support the Department’s strategic agenda and work closely with the Chief Operating Officer and Head of Finance to develop and deliver the Department’s financial strategy. You will be responsible for the annual budgeting and reforecasting process, applying robust financial modelling and ensuring courses, regular activity and new initiatives are costed and priced accurately. You will ensure that the Department’s financial position is closely monitored and that timely, accurate management information and analysis is provided to senior management, budget holders, and internal and external stakeholders. You will be responsible for the effective and efficient day‑to‑day leadership and motivation of the finance team (currently six roles), including recruitment, performance management, capability development, allocation of work and maintaining service resilience. This is a full‑time position, available on a permanent basis. There will be an expectation of working at least two days on‑site initially at our central Oxford office. Hybrid working for three days is available.
About You
You will be an experienced finance professional educated to degree level or with equivalent relevant experience. You will be able to understand stakeholders’ information needs and communicate complex financial information clearly. Experience working in a large, complex accounting environment with demonstrable technical accounting skills is essential. You should have strong planning and organisational skills, and a strong understanding of financial procedures and processes. Experience working within Higher Education and with Oracle financials is desirable. You should possess strong problem‑solving skills and have the ability to develop practical and effective solutions. As you will be required to manage a team of people, management experience is desirable. You should hold accounting qualifications (e.g. ACA/CIMA/ACCA/CIPFA) or be in the final stages of qualification.
About Us
The Department provides opportunities for people from a wide variety of backgrounds to benefit from the University’s rich and unique resources. We are ambitious and forward‑thinking, with a strong sense of identity and community. Our mission is to inspire people locally, nationally and globally by extending access to Oxford’s world‑class teaching and resources through flexible and inclusive opportunities for study and research. Colleagues uphold the Mission, Vision and Values of the Department and actively promote a culture of equality, diversity and inclusion.
Benefits
- An excellent contributory pension scheme
- 38 days’ annual leave
- A comprehensive range of childcare services
- Family leave schemes
- Cycle loan scheme
- Membership to a variety of social and sports clubs
- Discounted bus travel and Season Ticket travel loans
Application Process
You will be required to upload a covering letter, supporting statement, CV and the details of two referees as part of your online application. To make informal enquiries about the post please contact Wanda Groenewald (wanda.groenewald@conted.ox.ac.uk). The closing date for applications is 12 noon on Sunday 15 February. Interviews will take place during week commencing 23 February 2026.
Bring your expertise to the University of Oxford and be a part of a community that values creativity, diversity and excellence. The University of Oxford is an equal opportunity employer and welcomes applications from individuals regardless of their background.
Deputy Head of Finance employer: Oxford Lifelong Learning, University of Oxford
Contact Detail:
Oxford Lifelong Learning, University of Oxford Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Deputy Head of Finance
✨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 researching the department's financial strategies and recent initiatives. Show us that you’re not just another candidate; demonstrate your understanding of their goals and how you can contribute to them.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your communication skills! You’ll need to explain complex financial concepts clearly. Try explaining your past projects to a friend or family member who isn’t in finance – if they get it, you’re on the right track!
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take the initiative to engage with us directly.
We think you need these skills to ace Deputy Head of Finance
Some tips for your application 🫡
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Make sure to highlight your relevant experience and how it aligns with the Deputy Head of Finance role. We want to see your enthusiasm for the position and how you can contribute to our finance team.
Tailor Your CV: Don’t just send a generic CV! Tailor it to showcase your financial management skills and any experience in higher education. We’re looking for specific examples that demonstrate your ability to lead and motivate a team, so make those stand out!
Showcase Your Problem-Solving Skills: In your supporting statement, give us some insight into your problem-solving abilities. Share examples of challenges you've faced in financial management and how you tackled them. We love seeing practical solutions in action!
Follow the Application Instructions: Make sure you upload all required documents: your cover letter, CV, supporting statement, and referees' details. We appreciate attention to detail, so double-check everything before hitting submit. Apply through our website to ensure your application is received!
How to prepare for a job interview at Oxford Lifelong Learning, University of Oxford
✨Know Your Numbers
As a Deputy Head of Finance, you'll need to demonstrate your financial acumen. Brush up on key financial metrics and be ready to discuss how you've used them in past roles. Prepare examples of budgeting and forecasting processes you've managed.
✨Understand Stakeholder Needs
Since the role involves communicating complex financial information, think about how you can tailor your communication style to different stakeholders. Practice explaining financial concepts in simple terms, as this will show your ability to connect with various audiences.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
Management experience is desirable for this position, so be prepared to share specific examples of how you've led teams in the past. Highlight your approach to motivating team members and managing performance, as well as any successful projects you've overseen.
✨Familiarise Yourself with Oracle Financials
If you have experience with Oracle financials, make sure to mention it during the interview. If not, do some research on its functionalities and how it applies to financial management. Showing that you're proactive about learning can set you apart from other candidates.
