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- Tasks: Lead financial strategy and transformation for a leading university.
- Company: University of Dundee, a top UK university with a vibrant community.
- Benefits: Inclusive workplace, family-friendly policies, and professional development opportunities.
- Why this job: Shape the future of education and research while making a real impact.
- Qualifications: Senior financial leadership experience and a recognised accounting qualification.
- Other info: Join a diverse team in a friendly, affordable city with excellent transport links.
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 in Dundee 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 in Dundee
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the finance sector, especially those who have experience in higher education. A friendly chat can lead to insider info about the role and even a referral.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by researching the University of Dundee's financial strategies and recent developments. Show us you’re not just another candidate; demonstrate your understanding of their mission and how you can contribute to their financial transformation.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your pitch! Be ready to discuss your past experiences with financial turnaround and organisational change. We want to hear how you've made an impact in previous roles and how that aligns with the university's goals.
✨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, it shows you’re serious about joining our community at the University of Dundee.
We think you need these skills to ace Chief Finance Officer - UOD2137 in Dundee
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the Chief Finance Officer role. Highlight your senior financial leadership experience and any relevant qualifications. We want to see how your background aligns with our needs!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're the perfect fit for this role. Share your vision for financial transformation and how you can contribute to our long-term sustainability.
Showcase Your Achievements: Don’t just list your responsibilities; showcase your achievements! Use specific examples of financial turnaround and recovery you've led in previous roles. We love seeing quantifiable results!
Apply Through Our Website: Remember to apply through our website! It’s the easiest way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. We can’t wait to see what you bring to the table!
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 Experience
Prepare specific examples from your past roles that highlight your senior financial leadership experience. Focus on instances where you've successfully led financial turnaround or organisational change. This will show the interviewers that you have the proven experience they are looking for.
✨Emphasise Collaboration and Accountability
The role requires fostering a culture of financial accountability and collaboration. Be ready to discuss how you've built trusted relationships in previous positions, particularly with stakeholders like funders and auditors. Highlight your inclusive leadership style and how it aligns with the university's values.
✨Prepare for Scenario Planning Questions
Given the emphasis on forecasting and scenario planning in the job description, be prepared to answer questions that assess your analytical skills. Think about how you would approach financial modelling and decision-making in challenging environments, and be ready to share your thought process during the interview.
