Head of Finance Business Partnering in London

Birkbeck, University of London, has an excellent opportunity for a permanent Head of Finance Business Partnering to join us this Summer 2026.

The role works closely with academic and professional service leaders to provide financial advice and challenge to support strategic decision-making and the effective use of resources.

This is a senior management role within the Finance Department at Birkbeck, offered on a full-time, permanent contract for 35 hours a week and a salary of £64,290 rising to £71,792 per year.

We are looking for a fully qualified accountant (CCAB) who combines technical expertise, leadership skills and credibility to operate effectively at senior level. Specifically, we are looking for:

• Extensive experience preparing and monitoring budgets, forecasts, and performance reports including building and stress-testing financial models
• Sound knowledge of FRS102 and UK GAAP
• Strong cash flow management and forecasting skills in a complex organisation
• Advanced financial modelling, data analysis, and reconciliation skills for budgeting, forecasting and scenario analysis
• Proven leadership of business partnering teams, with a focus on people development and positive culture
• Effective interpersonal skills with the ability to communicate complex financial concepts clearly and build strong relationships with stakeholders at all levels, including those without a finance background
• Confident advising and challenging at senior level, with sound judgement for escalation.

Experience of higher education is desirable but not essential, as we are equally interested in candidates from other complex, regulated environments who could bring a fresh perspective.

Located in Bloomsbury, central London, the post will work in line with Birkbeck's flexible working arrangements and consist of a mixture of home working as well as being in the office.

Salary and benefits

£64,290 rising to £71,792 per annum, Grade 9 on the College's London Pay Scale which includes a consolidated London Weighting Allowance.

Benefits of working at Birkbeck: a competitive salary and pension scheme, 31 days paid leave, flexible working arrangements, generous benefits in the HE sector, and being located in the heart of Bloomsbury, Euston, London.

Contract

Permanent, open-ended contract. Full-time (35 hours per week). Closing date: Sunday 9 August, interview date: Thursday 18 August 2026.

Enquiries

If you would like to know more about the role, please contact Melanius Paes, Deputy Director of Finance, at

We welcome applicants from all sections of the community. The College is committed to improving the gender and cultural diversity of its workforce, holding a bronze Athena SWAN award and operating Disability Confident & Mindful Employer schemes.