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- Tasks: Lead and manage finance systems to enhance efficiency and support strategic objectives.
- Company: Join the University of East London, a pioneer in careers-first education.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, inclusive culture, and excellent career development opportunities.
- Why this job: Shape the future of finance systems in a dynamic and diverse environment.
- Qualifications: Experience in finance systems management and strong leadership skills required.
- Other info: Be part of a community committed to equality, diversity, and positive change.
The predicted salary is between 62443 - 71685 £ per year.
Salary £62,443 to £71,685 per annum inclusive of London Weighting
Location: Docklands Campus
Post Type: Full Time
Post Type: Permanent
Closing Date: Sunday 15 February 2026
Interview Date: To be confirmed
Reference: 2287-25-PS-R
University of East London
We’re the University of East London (UEL), founded in 1898 and proud to change lives through education. Our goal is to advance industry 5.0 careers-first education and provide a clear path to the jobs and opportunities of the future. We’re committed to driving diversity in the 5.0 talent pipeline, working in partnership to promote talent wherever it is found and creating a balanced, inclusive, and green future.
About The Service
The Finance Department at the University of East London plays a key role in managing the University’s financial resources to ensure stability, efficiency, and strategic investment in its future, aligned with Vision 2028. We provide a comprehensive range of financial services, including budgeting, financial and tax planning, compliance, and advisory support, ensuring the University operates smoothly. Our responsibilities also include the preparation of annual financial statements, statutory reporting, and regulatory submissions. We work proactively with schools and services staff, and students to offer financial guidance, maintain compliance, and drive value for money across all operations.
About The Job
As the Head of Finance Systems, you will lead the development and management of the University’s finance systems to ensure they are efficient, integrated, and aligned with UEL’s strategic objectives under Vision 2028. Reporting to the Deputy Chief Finance Officer, you will play a key role in shaping the University’s financial systems strategy, maintaining data integrity, and supporting effective decision-making across the institution.
You Will:
- Lead, develop, and manage the Finance Systems Team, fostering collaboration and a strong customer-service culture.
- Oversee all finance-owned and integrated systems, ensuring reliability, accuracy, and operational efficiency.
- Drive the development and implementation of new systems and enhancements that support business improvement and digital transformation.
- Develop and deliver accurate and timely financial reporting to support effective planning, compliance, and performance monitoring.
- Work collaboratively with internal and external stakeholders to identify system needs and deliver innovative solutions.
- Lead the Finance Systems helpdesk, ensuring responsive, high-quality service across the University community.
We have recently gone live with a new SaaS finance system, Unit4 ERPx, replacing our previous on-premises Unit4 ERP7 system.
About You
You will be a proactive and strategic leader with extensive experience in developing, managing, and enhancing major finance systems within a complex organisation. You will combine strong technical understanding with excellent people and project management skills.
You Will Bring:
- A degree or equivalent qualification and be a qualified accountant or have significant equivalent experience.
- Proven experience in the implementation, development, and administration of major finance systems and related strategies.
- Experience leading teams and driving organisational and cultural change to improve service delivery.
- Strong business acumen with the ability to manage complex operations and budgets effectively.
- Excellent communication skills with the ability to explain technical and financial concepts clearly to a wide range of audiences.
- A collaborative approach, building positive relationships across the University to deliver shared objectives.
You will also demonstrate the University’s core values of Passion, Inclusion, and Courage, and a commitment to equality, diversity, and inclusivity in everything you do.
Benefits Package
At UEL, we believe that a great role is about more than just a salary. It’s about the complete package, including our outstanding work environment and inclusive culture. We offer a genuinely competitive salary, dependent on experience (DOE), and a range of excellent benefits.
Equal Opportunities
UEL is an inclusive equal opportunities employer and are proud of our Equality, Diversity and Inclusivity achievements, including: zero gender pay gap, members of Stonewall and have won Athena Swan awards. We expect all employees of UEL to accept our EDI policy and will not tolerate discrimination in any form.
We’re a disability confident employer and value all applications. Please let us know if you require any reasonable accommodations throughout the recruitment process.
So, if you’d like to take your career to the next level with us here at the University of East London and are inspired by our environment and commit to success, we want you to apply today!
Please note that this advert may close earlier than the stated deadline if we receive a high volume of applications. We encourage you to submit your application as soon as possible.
Head of Finance Systems employer: University of East London
Contact Detail:
University of East London Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Finance Systems
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the finance sector and let them know you're on the lookout for opportunities. You never know who might have the inside scoop on a role that’s perfect for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the University of East London and its finance systems. Show us that you’re not just interested in the job, but that you understand our mission and how you can contribute to it.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your pitch! Be ready to explain how your experience aligns with the role of Head of Finance Systems. Highlight your leadership skills and how you’ve driven change in previous positions.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, it shows us you’re serious about joining our community at UEL.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Finance Systems
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your application to highlight how your experience aligns with the role of Head of Finance Systems. Use keywords from the job description to show that you understand what UEL is looking for.
Showcase Your Leadership Skills: Since this role involves leading a team, don’t forget to emphasise your leadership experience. Share specific examples of how you've successfully managed teams and driven change in previous roles.
Be Clear and Concise: Keep your application clear and to the point. Use straightforward language to explain your qualifications and experiences, making it easy for the hiring team to see why you’re a great fit.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to submit your application through our website. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves, and you’ll find all the necessary details there!
How to prepare for a job interview at University of East London
✨Know Your Systems Inside Out
As the Head of Finance Systems, you'll need to demonstrate a solid understanding of finance systems, especially the new Unit4 ERPx. Brush up on its features and how it integrates with other systems. Be ready to discuss your experience with similar systems and how you've driven improvements in the past.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
This role requires strong leadership and team management. Prepare examples of how you've led teams in previous roles, particularly in driving organisational change. Highlight your ability to foster collaboration and a customer-service culture within your team.
✨Communicate Clearly and Confidently
You'll be explaining complex financial concepts to various stakeholders. Practice articulating these ideas in simple terms. Use examples from your past experiences to illustrate your points, ensuring you convey your message effectively to both technical and non-technical audiences.
✨Align with UEL's Values
The University of East London values Passion, Inclusion, and Courage. Reflect on how your personal values align with these and prepare to discuss them during the interview. Share specific instances where you've demonstrated these values in your professional life, especially in promoting diversity and inclusivity.
