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For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead financial management and support strategic initiatives in a dynamic education environment.
- Company: Join the University of Oxford's Department for Continuing Education, fostering inclusivity and innovation.
- 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 with a passionate team at a prestigious institution.
- Qualifications: Degree-level education or equivalent experience in finance; management experience is a plus.
- Other info: Hybrid working options available, with opportunities for professional growth and development.
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 in Oxford 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 in Oxford
✨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 understand their goals and how you can contribute to achieving them. Tailor your responses to highlight your relevant experience!
✨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 in Oxford
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 role of Deputy Head of Finance. 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 a glimpse 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!
Apply Through Our Website: Make sure to apply through our website for a smooth application process. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us without any hiccups. Plus, we’re excited to see what you bring to the table!
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 the Stakeholders
Familiarise yourself with the various stakeholders you’ll be working with. Think about their information needs and how you can communicate complex financial data clearly. Tailor your responses to show that you understand their perspectives.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
Since this role involves managing a team, be prepared to discuss your management style and experiences. Share specific examples of how you've motivated teams, handled performance issues, or developed team members' capabilities.
✨Research the Department's Mission
Dive into the Department’s mission and values. Be ready to explain how your personal values align with theirs and how you can contribute to their goals. This shows genuine interest and helps you stand out as a candidate who fits their culture.
