At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead financial strategy and provide insights to support the College of Science & Engineering.
- Company: Join the prestigious University of Edinburgh, a world-class institution.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, flexible working options, and generous annual leave.
- Why this job: Make a meaningful impact in a vibrant international community.
- Qualifications: Experience in finance and strong leadership skills required.
- Other info: Championing equality, diversity, and inclusion in a supportive environment.
The predicted salary is between 63606 - 78469 £ per year.
Grade UE09: £63,606 - £78,469 per annum, pro rata if part time
CSG / Finance Directorate
Full Time: 35 hours per week
Open Ended: permanent
The Opportunity:
Your next step starts here. Be part of something bigger, make a meaningful impact. Join the University of Edinburgh and you will be making a difference to everything around you. Be part of something bigger - where you will do meaningful work, grow and progress, be rewarded and recognised, and benefit from our strong commitment to your wellbeing.
We are looking for a Lead Finance Business Partner to join our team working with the College of Science & Engineering. This role will work closely with the senior management of the College to provide strategic insight, analysis and advice enabling the delivery of high-quality, accurate financial forecasting and reporting on performance to support the ongoing financial sustainability of the University.
This role is a key management/leadership role within the business partnering team, setting direction and development for a team of business partners; and advocating/supporting the consistent application of finance policy and procedures across the College.
As part of the University, you are a part of our community. We are looking for people with drive, determination, and a passion for what they do. We are a place where everyone is welcome and offer a range of policies and benefits designed to support you in building the right meaningful/personalised flexibility for you.
Benefits:
- Working within one of the world’s leading universities
- Variety every day
- Responsibility and autonomy
- Professional development and subject matter expertise
This post is full-time; however, we are open to considering part-time or flexible working patterns. We are also open to considering requests for hybrid working (on a non-contractual basis) that combines a mix of remote and regular on-campus working.
How to apply:
Please include the following documents in your application:
- CV
- Cover letter outlining how your experience is relevant for this role
As a valued member of our team, you can expect:
- A competitive salary.
- An exciting, positive, creative, challenging and rewarding place to work.
- To be part of a diverse and vibrant international community.
- Comprehensive Staff Benefits, including generous annual leave entitlement, a defined benefits pension scheme, a wide range of staff discounts, family-friendly initiatives, and flexible work options.
Championing equality, diversity, and inclusion:
The University of Edinburgh holds a Silver Athena SWAN award in recognition of our commitment to advance gender equality in higher education. We are members of the Race Equality Charter, and we are also Stonewall Scotland Diversity Champions, actively promoting LGBT equality.
Prior to any employment commencing with the University, you will be required to evidence your right to work in the UK. Further information is available on our right to work webpages. On this occasion, the University will not consider applicants requiring sponsorship for this role. International workers will therefore only be able to take up this role if they can demonstrate an alternative right to work in the UK.
Key dates to note:
The closing date for applications is 20 February 2026. Unless stated otherwise the closing time for applications is 11:59pm UK time. If you are applying outside the UK the closing time on our adverts automatically adjusts to your browser's local time zone. Interview dates to be confirmed, please note interviews will be held in person.
About Us:
As a world-leading research-intensive University, we are here to address tomorrow’s greatest challenges. Between now and 2030 we will do that with a values-led approach to teaching, research and innovation, and through the strength of our relationships, both locally and globally.
About the Team:
The Finance Department is responsible for the effective financial management, stewardship and long-term financial health of the University, which has a turnover in excess of £900m per year. It exercises control over the University’s finances, provides expert financial guidance particularly for key decision making, and provides effective services and information for the financial conduct of the University’s business. It follows core values and behaviours to value and strengthen its team and delivery of its services - One Team; Expert; Innovation; Customer Focused; and Transparent.
Lead Finance Business Partner in Edinburgh employer: University of Edinburgh
Contact Detail:
University of Edinburgh Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Lead Finance Business Partner in Edinburgh
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former employees at the University of Edinburgh on LinkedIn. A friendly chat can give you insider info and maybe even a referral, which can really boost your chances.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by researching the College of Science & Engineering. Understand their goals and challenges, and think about how your skills as a Lead Finance Business Partner can help them achieve success.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your answers to common interview questions, but keep it natural. We want you to show your personality and passion for finance while demonstrating your strategic insight and leadership skills.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining our amazing team at the University of Edinburgh.
We think you need these skills to ace Lead Finance Business Partner in Edinburgh
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the Lead Finance Business Partner role. Highlight relevant experience and skills that align with the job description, especially in financial forecasting and reporting.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter should tell us why you're the perfect fit for this role. Share specific examples of how your past experiences relate to the responsibilities outlined in the job description.
Showcase Your Passion: We want to see your drive and determination! Use your application to express your passion for finance and how you can contribute to the University’s mission and values.
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way to ensure we receive all your documents and can consider you for this exciting opportunity.
How to prepare for a job interview at University of Edinburgh
✨Know Your Numbers
As a Lead Finance Business Partner, you'll need to demonstrate your financial acumen. Brush up on key financial metrics and be ready to discuss how you've used data to drive strategic decisions in the past. This shows you can provide the strategic insight they’re looking for.
✨Understand the University’s Vision
Familiarise yourself with the University of Edinburgh's mission and values. Be prepared to explain how your experience aligns with their commitment to financial sustainability and community impact. This will show that you're not just interested in the role, but also in contributing to their broader goals.
✨Prepare Thoughtful Questions
Interviews are a two-way street! Prepare insightful questions about the College of Science & Engineering and its financial strategies. This demonstrates your genuine interest in the role and helps you assess if it’s the right fit for you.
✨Showcase Leadership Skills
Since this is a management role, be ready to discuss your leadership style and experiences. Share examples of how you've successfully led teams, advocated for finance policies, or navigated challenges. This will highlight your capability to set direction and develop a team effectively.