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- Tasks: Lead and manage the oversight of £3 billion in research grants at a top university.
- Company: Join the prestigious University of Cambridge, renowned for its research excellence.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, professional development, and a collaborative work environment.
- Why this job: Make a significant impact on research funding and governance in a leading academic institution.
- Qualifications: Qualified accountant with experience in financial regulations and team leadership.
- Other info: Opportunity to drive cultural change and enhance service delivery in a dynamic setting.
The University of Cambridge is one of the world’s leading research-intensive academic institutions. The Cambridge Research Office (CRO) provides strategic leadership and operational support for the full range of research services that underpin the University’s globally recognised research excellence.
The Head of Post Award (Finance) is responsible for leading and managing the successful oversight of the University’s portfolio of externally funded Research grants with a total award value of over £3 billion. The role-holder is responsible for the provision of a high-quality professional service to the University, which will ensure the operation of an efficient and effective post award team and provide research related financial and accounting services.
They will also ensure the provision of appropriate and timely reporting to all levels of the research community and other internal stakeholders, provide proactive leadership in the development of systems and processes to enhance the governance environment and support both internal and external stakeholders. The role will also play a key role in the wider strategy and day-to-day operations of the Research Office, working closely with assistant directors of the respective school facing teams as part of the Director’s Senior Leadership Team. There is also a strong need to work in collaboration with other UAS divisions, such as Finance, Education Services and Human Resources.
You will have an advanced understanding of key accounting principles and financial concepts, a well-developed understanding of regulations and procedures across the research funding sector and implications of non-compliance. Proven track record of leading teams, managing staff performance, and developing a collaborative service-focused culture. Demonstrable ability to interpret and apply financial regulations, audit requirements, and risk management best practices. Track record of driving cultural change and embedding continuous improvement initiatives.
You will be a qualified accountant ACCA, CIMA, ACA or equivalent.
Head of Post Award (Finance) in Cambridge employer: Pure Resourcing Solutions Limited
Contact Detail:
Pure Resourcing Solutions Limited Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Post Award (Finance) in Cambridge
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the academic and finance sectors. Attend relevant events or webinars where you can meet people from the University of Cambridge or similar institutions. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the University’s research initiatives and financial management practices. Show that you’re not just interested in the role, but that you understand their mission and how you can contribute to it. Tailor your responses to highlight your experience with externally funded research grants.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your leadership stories! Be ready to share examples of how you've led teams and driven cultural change in previous roles. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your answers and make them impactful.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take the initiative to engage directly with us. Good luck!
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Post Award (Finance) in Cambridge
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the Head of Post Award (Finance) role. Highlight your experience with managing research grants and your understanding of financial regulations. We want to see how your skills align with what we’re looking for!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you’re the perfect fit for this role. Share specific examples of your leadership experience and how you've driven cultural change in previous positions. Let us know why you’re excited about joining the University of Cambridge!
Showcase Your Qualifications: Don’t forget to mention your qualifications, especially if you’re ACCA, CIMA, ACA or equivalent. We’re looking for someone with a strong financial background, so make sure this stands out in your application!
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother process. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us directly. Plus, you’ll find all the details you need about the role there!
How to prepare for a job interview at Pure Resourcing Solutions Limited
✨Know Your Numbers
As the Head of Post Award (Finance), you'll need to demonstrate a solid grasp of financial principles. Brush up on key accounting concepts and be ready to discuss how you've applied them in previous roles. This will show your potential employer that you can handle the financial complexities of their research grants.
✨Understand the Research Landscape
Familiarise yourself with the regulations and procedures in the research funding sector. Be prepared to discuss how non-compliance can impact projects and what proactive measures you've taken in the past to ensure compliance. This knowledge will highlight your expertise and commitment to maintaining high standards.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
The role requires strong leadership capabilities, so think of examples where you've successfully led teams or driven cultural change. Be ready to share specific instances where you've managed staff performance and fostered a collaborative environment. This will illustrate your ability to lead the post-award team effectively.
✨Collaborate and Communicate
Since this position involves working closely with various divisions, prepare to discuss your experience in cross-departmental collaboration. Highlight any successful partnerships you've built and how effective communication has played a role in achieving shared goals. This will demonstrate your ability to work within the wider strategy of the Research Office.
