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- Tasks: Lead financial strategy and transformation for a top UK university.
- Company: University of Dundee, a leading institution known for innovation and inclusivity.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, family-friendly policies, and a supportive work environment.
- Why this job: Shape the future of education and research while making a real impact.
- Qualifications: Senior financial leadership experience and a professional accounting qualification.
- Other info: Join a diverse team in a vibrant city with excellent career growth opportunities.
The predicted salary is between 43200 - 72000 £ per year.
The University of Dundee is seeking an experienced and forward-thinking Finance Director to play a pivotal role in shaping the institution's financial recovery and long-term sustainability. Reporting to the Principal & Vice-Chancellor, the postholder will be a member of the University Executive Group (UEG) and will provide strategic and operational leadership across the Finance function, with overarching responsibility for Estates and Campus Services and Digital and Technology Services.
At a critical point in the University's journey, this role will lead financial transformation, strengthening financial resilience while supporting the delivery of the University's academic mission across education, research and enterprise.
Your priorities will include:
- Lead the development and delivery of a robust financial strategy supporting recovery, sustainability and long-term resilience
- Provide high-quality financial insight, forecasting and scenario planning to inform strategic decision-making
- Strengthen financial governance, assurance, systems and controls across the institution
- Foster a strong culture of financial accountability, collaboration and transparency
- Contribute collectively to the strategic leadership of the University as a member of UEG
- Build and maintain trusted relationships with the University Court, funders, auditors and external partners
Who we’re looking for:
- Significant senior financial leadership experience at executive level within a complex organisation
- Proven experience of financial turnaround, recovery and organisational change
- A recognised professional accounting qualification (CA, CIMA, ACCA or equivalent)
- Strong strategic, analytical and influencing skills, with the ability to operate effectively in challenging environments
- A values-led, inclusive leadership style aligned to equality, diversity, sustainability and continuous improvement
We are one of the UK’s leading universities - internationally recognised for our expertise across a range of disciplines and research breakthroughs in multiple areas, including science, medicine and engineering, amongst many others. Conveniently located on the banks of River Tay, our main city-centre campus is at the heart of Dundee - an up-and-coming, friendly, compact and affordable city with a rich heritage in design and technology. We also have campuses at Ninewells Hospital and in Kirkcaldy which are easily accessible via local transport links. The diversity of our staff and students helps to make the University of Dundee a UK university of choice for undergraduate, postgraduate and distance learning. Family friendly policies, staff networks for BME, Disabled and LGBT staff, membership of Athena SWAN, the ECU Race Equality Charter and Stonewall as well a full range of disability services, create an enjoyable and inclusive place to work.
Chief Finance Officer - UOD2137 employer: University of Dundee
Contact Detail:
University of Dundee Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Chief Finance Officer - UOD2137
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the finance sector, especially those who have experience in higher education. They might have insider info on the role or even put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by researching the University of Dundee's financial strategies and recent developments. Show us that you’re not just interested in the role but also passionate about the institution’s mission and values.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your pitch! Be ready to discuss your previous experiences with financial turnaround and how they relate to the challenges the university is facing. We want to hear how you can lead financial transformation!
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take the initiative to engage directly with us.
We think you need these skills to ace Chief Finance Officer - UOD2137
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter for the Chief Finance Officer role. Highlight your relevant experience in financial leadership and turnaround strategies, as this will show us you understand what we're looking for.
Showcase Your Achievements: Don’t just list your responsibilities; we want to see your impact! Use specific examples of how you've contributed to financial recovery or transformation in previous roles. Numbers and outcomes speak volumes!
Be Authentic: Let your personality shine through in your application. We value a values-led, inclusive leadership style, so share your approach to fostering collaboration and transparency in your past experiences.
Apply Through Our Website: For the best chance of success, make sure to submit your application through our official website. This way, we can easily track your application and ensure it reaches the right people!
How to prepare for a job interview at University of Dundee
✨Know Your Financial Strategy
Before the interview, make sure you thoroughly understand the financial strategy of the University of Dundee. Familiarise yourself with their current financial position and any recent developments. This will help you demonstrate your strategic thinking and how you can contribute to their financial recovery and long-term sustainability.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Style
As a candidate for Chief Finance Officer, it's crucial to convey your leadership style. Be prepared to discuss how you foster a culture of financial accountability and collaboration. Share specific examples from your past experiences where your inclusive leadership made a positive impact on your team or organisation.
✨Prepare for Scenario Planning Questions
Given the role's emphasis on forecasting and scenario planning, expect questions that assess your analytical skills. Prepare to discuss how you've approached financial turnarounds in the past, including the strategies you employed and the outcomes achieved. Use data and metrics to back up your claims.
✨Build Relationships with Stakeholders
The role involves building trusted relationships with various stakeholders. Think about how you can articulate your experience in engaging with funders, auditors, and external partners. Be ready to share examples of how you've successfully navigated complex stakeholder environments and maintained transparency and trust.
