Head of Estates Finance in Cambridge

Pure are delighted to be supporting the University of Cambridge in the key appointment of a Head of Estates Finance, who will oversee one of the largest estates in higher education. This is an exciting opportunity to play a critical role in the Estates Division which is responsible for the development, management, and maintenance of the University of Cambridge estate, as well as a range of related services.

The operational estate, supporting the University’s teaching, research and administrative activities, is valued at over £2bn. The Division also manages a significant non-operational property portfolio, including the Northwest Cambridge development, with assets and investment funds exceeding £1bn. The non-operational estate is overseen by the University’s newly established Property Board, which will govern its future development and operation.

Reporting to the Director of Estates, with a strong dotted-line relationship to the Finance Director, the Head of Estates Finance will lead all financial services for the University’s Estates Division, covering both operational and non-operational activities. As a key member of the Estates Senior Leadership Team, the role will provide strategic financial leadership, business partnering, governance reporting, and support the delivery of best practice financial management across the University estate.

The postholder will oversee investment appraisal, financial planning, budgeting, controls, risk management, procurement, and financial compliance, while ensuring effective stewardship of significant physical, financial, and investment resources. They will play a pivotal role in shaping financial strategy, supporting senior leaders, and maintaining strong relationships with external stakeholders, colleges, committees, and governance bodies.

The role also leads the Estates finance function and a wider portfolio of services, driving value for money, operational efficiency, and robust assurance processes. In addition, the postholder will have responsibility for the financial and operational management of the University’s Shared Equity Scheme, overseeing more than £45m of investment across 150+ jointly owned residential properties and reporting to the relevant governance committees.

You will be an accomplished senior finance leader with significant experience operating within a large, complex organisation and a proven ability to influence strategic decision making at executive level. Comfortable operating in a highly collaborative environment, you will have the credibility to work effectively with senior leaders, governance bodies, and external partners.

You will be a qualified accountant ACA/ACCA/CIMA or equivalent with experience leading high-performing finance teams and delivering organisational change. Strong expertise in financial planning, reporting, governance, and risk management. Experience within property, estates, infrastructure, development, or capital-intensive environments would be advantageous.

The closing date for applications is midnight on Tuesday 15 September 2026.