Lead Finance Business Partner

Lead Finance Business Partner

Full-Time 63606 - 78469 £ / year (est.) No working from home possible
University of Edinburgh

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 comprehensive staff benefits.
  • Other info: Open to part-time and hybrid working arrangements.
  • Why this job: Make a meaningful impact in a vibrant international community while advancing your career.
  • Qualifications: Experience in finance and strong leadership skills required.

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 employer: University of Edinburgh

The University of Edinburgh is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic and inclusive work environment where employees can thrive and make a meaningful impact. With a strong commitment to professional development, flexible working options, and a comprehensive benefits package, staff are supported in achieving both personal and career growth. Join a diverse community dedicated to advancing education and research, while enjoying the vibrant culture of one of the world's leading universities.

University of Edinburgh

Contact Details:

University of Edinburgh Recruitment Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫

We think this is how you could land Lead Finance Business Partner

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. Plus, you’ll find all the details you need about the role and the amazing benefits we offer.

We think you need these skills to ace Lead Finance Business Partner

Financial Forecasting
Financial Reporting
Strategic Insight
Data Analysis
Leadership Skills
Team Development
Financial Policy Application

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 strategic insight.

Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter should tell your story! Explain how your background makes you a great fit for this position. Be specific about your achievements and how they 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 of Edinburgh's mission. Let your enthusiasm shine through!

Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to apply through our official website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us directly. Plus, you’ll find all the details you need about the role and our team there.

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 the University is looking for.

Understand the University’s Mission

Familiarise yourself with the University of Edinburgh's goals and values. Be prepared to explain how your experience aligns with their mission of making a meaningful impact. This will help you connect your personal drive and determination to the role.

Prepare Thoughtful Questions

Interviews are a two-way street! Prepare insightful questions about the College of Science & Engineering and its financial strategies. This not only shows your interest but also your proactive approach to understanding the role and its challenges.

Showcase Leadership Skills

Since this role involves leading a team of business partners, be ready to share examples of your leadership style. Discuss how you've set direction and developed teams in previous roles, highlighting your ability to advocate for finance policies and procedures effectively.