At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and manage a £3 billion portfolio of research grants, ensuring efficient financial services.
- Company: Join the Cambridge Research Office, renowned for its global 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 prestigious university.
- Qualifications: Qualified accountant with strong leadership and financial management skills.
- Other info: Opportunity to drive cultural change and enhance research operations.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
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 providing a high-quality professional service to the University, ensuring the operation of an efficient and effective post award team and delivering 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 developing systems and processes to enhance the governance environment, and support both internal and external stakeholders. The role will 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.
Responsibilities
- Lead and manage the oversight of the University’s portfolio of externally funded research grants with a total award value of over £3 billion.
- Provide a high-quality professional service to the University, ensure the operation of an efficient and effective post award team, and deliver research-related financial and accounting services.
- 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 internal and external stakeholders.
- Contribute to 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.
- Collaborate with other UAS divisions, such as Finance, Education Services, and Human Resources.
Qualifications
- 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.
- Qualified accountant (ACCA, CIMA, ACA) or equivalent.
To discuss this role in more detail please contact Mark Wishart at Pure on 01223209888.
Head of Post Award (Finance) in Cambridge employer: Pure Resourcing Solutions
Contact Detail:
Pure Resourcing Solutions 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 research and finance sectors. Attend events, webinars, or even casual meet-ups. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the University’s research initiatives and funding strategies. Show us that you’re not just another candidate; demonstrate your passion for their mission and how your skills can contribute to their success.
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t underestimate the power of follow-ups! After an interview, drop a quick thank-you email to express your appreciation. It keeps you fresh in their minds and shows your enthusiasm for the role.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website for the best chance at landing the job. We make it easy for you to showcase your skills and experience directly to the hiring team. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining us!
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 reflects the skills and experiences that match the Head of Post Award (Finance) role. Highlight your leadership experience and any relevant financial expertise to show us you’re the right fit.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to tell us why you’re passionate about this role and how your background aligns with our mission at the Cambridge Research Office. Be genuine and let your personality come through.
Showcase Your Achievements: When detailing your past roles, focus on specific achievements that demonstrate your ability to manage large portfolios and lead teams effectively. Numbers and outcomes speak volumes, so don’t hold back!
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website for a smoother application process. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you don’t miss out on any important updates!
How to prepare for a job interview at Pure Resourcing Solutions
✨Know Your Numbers
As the Head of Post Award (Finance), you'll need to demonstrate a solid grasp of key accounting principles and financial concepts. Brush up on relevant regulations and procedures in the research funding sector, and be ready to discuss how you've applied these in past roles.
✨Showcase Leadership Skills
This role requires strong leadership capabilities. Prepare examples of how you've successfully led teams, managed performance, and fostered a collaborative culture. Think about specific instances where you drove cultural change or implemented continuous improvement initiatives.
✨Be a Problem Solver
Expect questions that assess your ability to interpret and apply financial regulations and audit requirements. Prepare to discuss challenges you've faced in ensuring compliance and how you navigated them. Highlight your proactive approach to enhancing governance and supporting stakeholders.
✨Collaboration is Key
Since this position involves working closely with various divisions, be ready to talk about your experience collaborating with finance, education services, and HR teams. Share examples of successful partnerships and how they contributed to achieving organisational goals.