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- Tasks: Lead financial strategy and compliance at Queen's University Belfast.
- Company: Join a top Russell Group university known for research excellence and global influence.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working, generous leave, and strong support for professional development.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in a collaborative culture at a prestigious institution.
- Qualifications: Degree level education and a recognised accountancy qualification required.
- Other info: Commitment to equality and diversity with supportive staff networks.
The predicted salary is between 43200 - 72000 £ per year.
Join one of the UK's leading Russell Group universities at a transformative moment for both the institution and the region. Queen's University Belfast is a cornerstone of Northern Ireland's academic and economic landscape, internationally recognised for research excellence, impact teaching, and global influence. As we embark on an ambitious new chapter of growth, we're seeking a strategic and dynamic Assistant Director of Finance to help shape our financial future and drive financial strategy.
As a senior leader in our 120-strong Finance Directorate, you will report to and support the Director of Finance directly and represent Queen's on high-level internal and external committees; further you will lead a number of reputationally critical areas:
- Financial and Statutory Reporting & Compliance (including risk and audit)
- Procurement
- Taxation
- Pensions
- Treasury and Capital
This is a high-impact leadership role for a visionary finance professional ready to make a difference at the heart of one of the most influential institutions in Northern Ireland. Queen's is not only a world-class academic institution but also a truly rewarding place to work. We offer a collaborative, inclusive culture, excellent work-life balance, generous leave and pension schemes, and a strong commitment to staff development and wellbeing.
About the person: You will be a strategic thinker and strong and empathetic leader, who has the gravitas and ability to forge strong professional relationships with a wide range of colleagues. You will be dynamic, with an ability to think outside the box, thereby providing creative solutions to complex questions.
Specific essential criteria are below:
- Educated to a minimum of degree level or equivalent qualification, plus a recognised professional accountancy qualification (e.g. CAI, ACCA etc.).
- Extensive post qualification experience in financial reporting, compliance and audit, gained at a senior level within either (i) a large or complex organisation (which is defined as one with an annual turnover exceeding £100m and 500 employees) or (ii) a large professional services organisation.
- Proven track record of advising on 'best practice' internal controls, risk management, and regulatory compliance.
- Experience of working closely with tax and other professional advisors around complex issues.
- Experience of drafting and review of papers/presentations and presentation of same to senior stakeholders.
- A proven track record of successfully leading teams, including developing team members through mentorship and training.
- A proven track record of working at pace with multi-disciplinary teams to deliver under tight timelines.
- A high level of professional credibility, along with highly developed interpersonal, networking, advocacy and strategic influencing skills.
- The ability to communicate effectively at all levels and effectively influence a wide range of internal and external stakeholders.
- An analytical mindset with the ability to manage and mitigate risk, balanced with a positive and creative instinct to develop solutions to support the University's sustainable growth and change.
- Demonstrable commitment to the mission and values of Queen's University Belfast.
To be successful at shortlisting stage, please ensure you clearly evidence in your application how you meet the essential and, where applicable, desirable criteria listed in the Candidate Information.
What we offer: Beyond a competitive salary, the University offers an attractive benefits package including a holiday entitlement of up to 8.4 weeks a year, pension schemes and development opportunities. We support staff wellbeing with flexible working options, work-life balance initiatives and support for physical and mental health.
Queen's University is committed to promoting equality of opportunity to all. We subscribe to Equality Charter Marks such as the Diversity Charter Mark NI and Athena Swan and have established staff networks such as iRise (Black, Asian, Minority Ethnic and International Staff Network) and PRISM (LGBTQ) which help us progress equality. For further information on our commitment to Equality, Diversity and Inclusion, please visit our website.
If you are an international applicant and don't already hold a visa that permits you to take up the role you are applying for, please use the information provided on our website to self-assess whether the University is likely to be able to support a visa application.
Assistant Director, Financial Reporting and Statutory Compliance employer: Queens University
Contact Detail:
Queens University Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Assistant Director, Financial Reporting and Statutory Compliance
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with Queen's University Belfast's mission and values. Understanding their commitment to equality, diversity, and inclusion will help you align your application and discussions with their organisational culture.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with current or former employees of Queen's University Belfast, especially those in finance roles. They can provide insights into the work environment and expectations, which can be invaluable during interviews.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your experience with financial reporting and compliance in detail. Be ready to share specific examples of how you've successfully led teams and managed complex financial issues in previous roles.
✨Tip Number 4
Showcase your strategic thinking skills by preparing a few ideas on how you would approach financial strategy at Queen's. This demonstrates your proactive mindset and readiness to contribute from day one.
We think you need these skills to ace Assistant Director, Financial Reporting and Statutory Compliance
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Thoroughly read the job description for the Assistant Director of Finance position. Make sure you understand the key responsibilities and required skills, as this will help you tailor your application effectively.
Highlight Relevant Experience: In your CV and cover letter, clearly outline your extensive post-qualification experience in financial reporting, compliance, and audit. Use specific examples that demonstrate your leadership skills and ability to work with multi-disciplinary teams.
Demonstrate Strategic Thinking: Showcase your strategic thinking abilities by providing examples of how you've successfully advised on best practices in internal controls and risk management. This is crucial for a role that involves driving financial strategy.
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to address the essential and desirable criteria listed in the Candidate Information. Use clear and concise language to demonstrate how your skills and experiences align with what Queen's University Belfast is looking for.
How to prepare for a job interview at Queens University
✨Showcase Your Strategic Thinking
As an Assistant Director of Finance, you'll need to demonstrate your ability to think strategically. Prepare examples of how you've successfully developed and implemented financial strategies in previous roles, particularly in complex organisations.
✨Highlight Leadership Experience
This role requires strong leadership skills. Be ready to discuss your experience in leading teams, mentoring staff, and fostering a collaborative environment. Share specific instances where your leadership made a significant impact.
✨Prepare for Technical Questions
Expect questions related to financial reporting, compliance, and risk management. Brush up on relevant regulations and best practices, and be prepared to discuss how you've navigated these areas in your past roles.
✨Demonstrate Effective Communication Skills
You'll need to communicate with various stakeholders, so practice articulating complex financial concepts in a clear and concise manner. Consider preparing a brief presentation on a relevant topic to showcase your communication abilities.
