Senior Finance Business Partner in Lowestoft

On behalf Centre for Environment Fisheries and Aquaculture Science (Cefas) Part of of Defra, we are looking for a Senior Finance Business Partner(Inside IR35) for a contract until the end of March 2026 based in Lowestoft or Weymouth 3 day per week in the office.

Cefasis a world leader in marine science and technology, the Centre for Environment, Fisheries and Aquaculture Science (Cefas) collects, manages and interprets data on the aquatic environment, biodiversity and fisheries.

Cefas are growing our impact in the UK and overseas creating new demands for our Finance Team to apply the new technologies and data skills to build efficient and effective business support solutions as well as proactive strategic planning. We expect this to include new investment in our core systems and processes.

Responsibilities

• Work in a dynamic finance environment using advanced systems, Excel, and data-driven solutions.
• Deliver high-quality internal and external reporting, including Annual Report and Accounts,(ARA) and lead external audit processes.
• Provide expert technical accounting advice aligned with IFRS, FReM, and Government guidance.
• Produce timely management reporting, business planning outputs, and statutory returns (including VAT and Defra group packs).
• Analyse and improve financial processes and controls to enhance efficiency and transparency.
• Build strong stakeholder relationships while promoting Cefas values of respect, diversity, and inclusivity

Essential

• Experience in stakeholder collaboration (Finance, Audit, etc.).
• Ability to manage change and priorities under pressure.
• Strong technical knowledge of accounting standards and controls.
• Leadership and people development skills.
• Qualified accountant (ACA, ACCA, CIMA, CIPFA) or working towards qualification.

Desirable

• Public Sector experience

Please be aware that this role can only be worked within the UK and not Overseas.

Disability Confident

As a member of the Disability Confident Scheme, Defra guarantees to interview all candidates who have a disability and who meet all the essential criteria for the vacancy. In cases where we have a high volume of candidates who have a disability who meet all the essential criteria, we will interview the best candidates from within that group. This scheme encourages candidates with a disability and/or neurodivergence to apply. In exceptional circumstances, we may also need to apply the desirable criteria in our shortlisting process which may include holding active security clearance.

Armed Forces Covenant

Defra guarantees to interview veterans or spouses / partners of military personnel who meet all the essential criteria for the vacancy. In cases where we have a high volume of ex-military candidates / military spouses or partners, who meet all of the essential criteria, we will interview the best candidates from within that group. In exceptional circumstances, we may also need to apply the desirable criteria in our shortlisting process which may include holding active security clearance.

In applying for this role, you acknowledge the following \”this role falls in scope of the Off Payroll Working in the Public Sector legislation. Any rates of payment quoted will reflect the gross rate per day for the assignment and will be subject to appropriate taxes and statutory costs. As such the payment to the intermediary and your income resulting from this contract will be different\”.