At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead financial strategy and oversee budgeting for a prestigious academic department.
- Company: Join the University of Oxford, a globally recognised institution for politics and international relations.
- Benefits: Enjoy 38 days of annual leave, generous family leave, and flexible working options.
- Other info: Collaborative environment with opportunities for professional growth and development.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in a world-renowned department while shaping financial decisions.
- Qualifications: Proven experience in financial planning and strong leadership skills required.
The predicted salary is between 49119 - 58265 £ per year.
The Department of Politics and International Relations (DPIR) is one of Oxford’s largest and most internationally recognised departments. Home to around 90 academic staff and a vibrant community of researchers, visiting scholars and students, DPIR is internationally recognised for excellence in both teaching and research. Ranked the UK's No. 1 university for Politics by The Guardian in 2025, the department is committed to shaping debate and advancing knowledge on some of the most important political challenges facing the world today.
Behind this success is a dedicated team of Professional Services colleagues who play a vital role in supporting our academic mission. Working across areas including Courses, Research, Finance, Human Resources and Communications, our teams provide expert support in a collaborative, innovative and intellectually stimulating environment.
We are deeply committed to creating an inclusive and supportive workplace where everyone can thrive. Equality, diversity and inclusion are at the heart of our culture, and we actively promote initiatives that foster belonging and opportunity for all, including our ongoing commitment to achieving an Athena Swan Bronze Award.
About the Role
The Finance Manager is a pivotal senior leadership role within the Department of Politics and International Relations (DPIR), with responsibility for shaping and overseeing the Department's financial strategy, performance, and sustainability across an annual income portfolio of approximately £20 million. As a key member of the Senior Management Team, the post-holder will provide strategic financial leadership and trusted advice, enabling informed decision-making and supporting the Department's long-term academic and operational ambitions.
Working closely with senior academics, research leaders, and professional services colleagues, the Finance Manager will lead all aspects of financial planning, budgeting, forecasting, reporting, and governance. The role requires the ability to translate complex financial information into clear, actionable insights, ensuring resources are deployed effectively to maximise impact and support departmental priorities.
The successful candidate will play a critical role in maintaining financial resilience and regulatory compliance, while driving continuous improvement in financial processes and controls. They will also provide expert financial oversight to major research centres and externally funded activities, lead complex financial modelling and business planning initiatives, and contribute to strategic projects requiring strong analytical, commercial, and project management expertise.
This is an exceptional opportunity for an experienced finance professional to influence strategic direction, partner with senior stakeholders, and contribute to the success of a world-renowned academic department.
About You
The successful candidate will be an experienced and strategic finance professional with expertise in financial planning, budgeting, forecasting, and financial control within a complex organisation. You will have a proven ability to provide financial insight, lead business planning and modelling activities, and support senior decision-making through clear analysis and management information.
A collaborative and influential leader, you will build strong relationships across a wide range of stakeholders, ensure robust governance and compliance, and lead and develop a high-performing finance team. With strong project management skills and a proactive, solutions-focused approach, you will drive continuous improvement, lead change initiatives, and contribute to the achievement of the Department's long-term strategic goals.
What We Offer
Working at the University of Oxford offers several exclusive benefits, such as:
- 38 days of annual leave (pro rata if part time and inclusive of public holidays) to support your wellbeing and additional leave after long service.
- One of the most generous family leave schemes in UK higher education, offering up to 26 weeks of full-pay maternity and adoption leave, plus 12 weeks of full-pay paternity/partner leave.
- A commitment to hybrid and flexible working to suit your lifestyle.
- An excellent contributory pension scheme.
- Affordable and sustainable commuting options, including a cycle loan scheme, discounted bus travel, and season ticket loans.
- Access to a vibrant community through our social, cultural, and sports clubs.
This permanent position is full-time and available from 1 October 2026.
If you have any questions about the role, please contact the DPIR HR Team at vacancies@politics.ox.ac.uk. All enquiries will be treated in strict confidence and will not form part of the selection decision.
Application Process
Applications for this vacancy are to be made online via the University’s job pages. You will be required to upload a recent CV and supporting statement which demonstrates how your skills and experience meet the selection criteria as part of your online application. Only applications received before 12 noon (UK time) on Monday 14 September 2026 can be considered. Please quote reference 188291 in all correspondence.
Further information on the application process can be found here: How to apply | Oxford University
DPIR is currently working toward its submission to achieve Bronze Athena Swan status.
Contact Person: DPIR HR Team
Vacancy ID: 188291
Contact Email: vacancies@politics.ox.ac.uk
Salary (£): £49,119 - £58,265 per annum (pro rata). This is inclusive of a pensionable Oxford University Weighting of £1,730 per year (pro rata).
Finance Manager in Oxford employer: University of Oxford
The University of Oxford is an exceptional employer, offering a vibrant research environment that fosters creativity and innovation in neuroscience. With access to cutting-edge facilities and a collaborative work culture, employees are encouraged to grow professionally through various development opportunities. Located in the historic city of Oxford, the university provides a unique blend of academic excellence and cultural richness, making it an ideal place for those seeking meaningful and impactful careers in research.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Finance Manager in Oxford
✨Tap into Campus Networks
If you're still in uni, don’t forget to engage with your campus's career services and attend finance-related events. Banks often do presentations and recruitment drives on campus, so put yourself out there and make use of these opportunities to show off your passion for the field.
✨Get Certified
Consider pursuing relevant certifications like the CFA or ACCA while you’re job hunting. They not only beef up your CV but also connect you with professional bodies which can lead to networking opportunities and even job openings in banking and financial services.
✨Connect on Professional Platforms
Join finance-focused groups on platforms like LinkedIn and engage in discussions. This can really help you stand out from the crowd, allowing potential employers to see your knowledge and interest in industry trends. Plus, you might stumble upon job postings shared exclusively within the group.
✨Apply Directly and Be Proactive
Don’t shy away from reaching out directly to firms like University of Oxford. Use their websites and apply through them, but also consider following up with a polite email to express your enthusiasm. Being proactive can make a huge difference in getting noticed in the competitive financial services sector.
We think you need these skills to ace Finance Manager in Oxford
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Numbers!:In the banking and financial services world, quantifiable achievements are key. Make sure your CV highlights your grades in relevant subjects, any financial certifications you hold, and specific projects where you've delivered measurable results. Employers love to see how your skills translate into real-world success.
Tailor Your Cover Letter to the Role:When applying for a full-time position, your cover letter should make a direct connection between your experience and the job description. Don't just state your enthusiasm for finance—dive into how your background in banking or financial analysis sets you apart. Let your passion shine through while being specific about what you can bring to University of Oxford.
Include Relevant Financial Software Experience:If you've worked with financial modelling tools or software like Excel, SAP, or specific analytical tools during your studies or internships, bring that up! Highlighting your proficiency can really make your application pop and show you're ready to hit the ground running in a full-time role.
Research and Reflect:Before hitting that 'apply' button on University of Oxford's website, do a little digging. Look up their recent projects, values, and culture. Reflecting their ethos in your application can make a huge difference and show you’re genuinely interested in being part of the team!
How to prepare for a job interview at University of Oxford
✨Brush Up on Financial Analysis Skills
Make sure you're well-versed in financial concepts and analytical techniques relevant to banking and financial services. Get comfortable with tools like Excel for modelling or financial forecasting, as technical questions in this area are common during interviews with University of Oxford.
✨Prepare for Case Studies
Expect to tackle case studies that demonstrate your problem-solving skills in real-world banking scenarios. Familiarise yourself with the types of problems you might face—think risk assessments or investment evaluations—and be ready to articulate your thought process clearly.
✨Show Your Passion for Finance
Since this is a full-time position, employers at University of Oxford will be keen to see your genuine interest in finance. Be prepared to discuss recent industry trends or news articles that excite you, showcasing your enthusiasm and engagement with the field.
✨Network with Industry Professionals
Before your interview, reach out to current or former University of Oxford employees on platforms like LinkedIn. They'll offer unique insights into the company's culture and the interview process, which can give us a delightful edge in showcasing a good fit for the team.
