Chief Finance Officer in Manchester

Chief Finance Officer in Manchester

Manchester Full-Time 65000 - 90000 £ / year (est.) No working from home possible
The University of Manchester

At a Glance

  • Tasks: Lead financial strategy and oversee a complex finance function at a leading university.
  • Company: The University of Manchester, renowned for academic excellence and social responsibility.
  • Benefits: Competitive salary, professional development, and the chance to impact global education.
  • Other info: Be part of a transformative journey at a globally recognised university.
  • Why this job: Join a prestigious institution and shape its financial future while driving innovation.
  • Qualifications: Proven experience in senior financial leadership within large organisations.

The predicted salary is between 65000 - 90000 £ per year.

The University of Manchester is one of the world’s leading universities, combining academic excellence with a deep commitment to social responsibility.

With origins as England’s first civic university, we have built a global reputation for pioneering research, outstanding teaching and meaningful impact across society.

Today, with more than 46,000 students, 13,000 staff and annual income of c.£1.4 billion, we are one of the largest and most complex universities in the UK.

Our strategy, From Manchester for the world, sets out an ambitious vision for the next decade -advancing innovation, strengthening partnerships and delivering research and education that addresses the major challenges of our time.

The Chief Financial Officer (CFO) is a pivotal role.

You will be responsible for the financial stewardship of the University, shaping and delivering its financial strategy, and leading a large and complex finance function.

Working closely with the President and Vice-Chancellor, Board of Governors and senior colleagues, you will play a central role in enabling the University’s long‑term sustainability and strategic ambitions.

This is a broad leadership position extending beyond traditional finance.

You will provide expert advice on major investment decisions, oversee treasury and financial planning activities, and help drive transformation across systems, processes and ways of working.

You will also support the development of commercial strategy, income diversification and partnership activity, ensuring that resources are aligned to institutional priorities and that the University remains financially resilient in a rapidly evolving external environment.

We are seeking an outstanding senior financial leader with a proven track record in a large and complex organisation.

You will bring strong commercial acumen, experience of strategic financial planning and transformation, and the credibility to operate at Board and executive level.

You will have excellent influencing skills, the ability to navigate complexity and ambiguity, and a values‑led leadership style that inspires high performance, collaboration and continuous improvement.

This is an exceptional opportunity to join a globally recognised institution at a pivotal moment in its development.

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Chief Finance Officer in Manchester employer: The University of Manchester

The University of Manchester is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work culture that prioritises innovation and collaboration. With a strong commitment to employee growth, you will have access to comprehensive benefits including leading pension schemes and health services, all while contributing to the strategic direction of a prestigious institution in a vibrant city known for its rich cultural heritage and academic excellence.

The University of Manchester

Contact Details:

The University of Manchester Recruitment Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫

We think this is how you could land Chief Finance Officer in Manchester

Tap into Campus Networks

If you're still in uni, don’t forget to engage with your campus's career services and attend finance-related events. Banks often do presentations and recruitment drives on campus, so put yourself out there and make use of these opportunities to show off your passion for the field.

Get Certified

Consider pursuing relevant certifications like the CFA or ACCA while you’re job hunting. They not only beef up your CV but also connect you with professional bodies which can lead to networking opportunities and even job openings in banking and financial services.

Connect on Professional Platforms

Join finance-focused groups on platforms like LinkedIn and engage in discussions. This can really help you stand out from the crowd, allowing potential employers to see your knowledge and interest in industry trends. Plus, you might stumble upon job postings shared exclusively within the group.

Apply Directly and Be Proactive

Don’t shy away from reaching out directly to firms like The University of Manchester. Use their websites and apply through them, but also consider following up with a polite email to express your enthusiasm. Being proactive can make a huge difference in getting noticed in the competitive financial services sector.

We think you need these skills to ace Chief Finance Officer in Manchester

Financial Stewardship
Financial Strategy Development
Leadership in Finance
Expertise in Investment Decisions
Treasury Management
Financial Planning
Transformation Management

Some tips for your application 🫡

Show Off Your Numbers!:In the banking and financial services world, quantifiable achievements are key. Make sure your CV highlights your grades in relevant subjects, any financial certifications you hold, and specific projects where you've delivered measurable results. Employers love to see how your skills translate into real-world success.

Tailor Your Cover Letter to the Role:When applying for a full-time position, your cover letter should make a direct connection between your experience and the job description. Don't just state your enthusiasm for finance—dive into how your background in banking or financial analysis sets you apart. Let your passion shine through while being specific about what you can bring to The University of Manchester.

Include Relevant Financial Software Experience:If you've worked with financial modelling tools or software like Excel, SAP, or specific analytical tools during your studies or internships, bring that up! Highlighting your proficiency can really make your application pop and show you're ready to hit the ground running in a full-time role.

Research and Reflect:Before hitting that 'apply' button on The University of Manchester's website, do a little digging. Look up their recent projects, values, and culture. Reflecting their ethos in your application can make a huge difference and show you’re genuinely interested in being part of the team!

How to prepare for a job interview at The University of Manchester

Brush Up on Financial Analysis Skills

Make sure you're well-versed in financial concepts and analytical techniques relevant to banking and financial services. Get comfortable with tools like Excel for modelling or financial forecasting, as technical questions in this area are common during interviews with The University of Manchester.

Prepare for Case Studies

Expect to tackle case studies that demonstrate your problem-solving skills in real-world banking scenarios. Familiarise yourself with the types of problems you might face—think risk assessments or investment evaluations—and be ready to articulate your thought process clearly.

Show Your Passion for Finance

Since this is a full-time position, employers at The University of Manchester will be keen to see your genuine interest in finance. Be prepared to discuss recent industry trends or news articles that excite you, showcasing your enthusiasm and engagement with the field.

Network with Industry Professionals

Before your interview, reach out to current or former The University of Manchester employees on platforms like LinkedIn. They'll offer unique insights into the company's culture and the interview process, which can give us a delightful edge in showcasing a good fit for the team.