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- Tasks: Provide financial guidance and support to help shape the University's strategic goals.
- Company: Join a leading University committed to diversity and innovation.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, professional development, and a supportive work environment.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on financial strategies that drive the future of education.
- Qualifications: Must be a qualified accountant with experience in finance business partnering.
- Other info: Dynamic role with opportunities for growth and collaboration across all levels.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
This is a senior role operating in the Finance Office and reporting directly to the Head of Financial Planning. This role will involve working directly with senior colleagues, delivering insightful financial guidance, planning and decision support to the business objectives of the University. The post-holder will be an experienced finance business partner who will work with leadership teams across the University to deliver professional finance and accounting advice, as well as proactive and value add finance support to inform decision making. The post-holder will be business focused, highly analytical and aware of the sector and risk environment in which the University operates.
In addition to traditional accounting strengths, strong commercial awareness and the ability to challenge stakeholders are highly desirable qualities. With demonstrable skills and experience of working in a busy finance environment you will be able to contribute to the wide range of activities undertaken by finance professionals including financial accounting, management accounting and business development. Experience in developing and implementing business and financial strategies would be preferable, you will be a professionally qualified accountant.
As the role may involve liaising with external stakeholders as well as senior members of the University’s staff it is important that the post-holder is able to build and maintain good stakeholder relationships and have excellent communication skills.
Description of Duties
- Financial Strategy and Planning
- Ensure that financial sustainability is central to the University’s strategy and operation by supporting the identification of new income sources and opportunities in line with the aims of the University Strategic Plan for designated areas.
- Work with key stakeholders in the University to translate business strategies into financial plans, ensuring they are complete, robust and fully understood by the relevant budget holders.
- Support delivery of in-year forecasts, annual budgets and long-term plans, ensuring alignment with targets for revenue, cost and contribution.
- Evaluate finances of strategic development and provide sound financial advice to stakeholders within the University.
- Provide action plans to address issues and opportunities identified to deliver financial sustainability.
- Maintain a sound understanding of sector developments in relation to financial planning and project support.
- Financial Analysis and Insight
- Prepare monthly management reporting for designated areas on a timely and accurate basis by combining quantitative, qualitative data and statistical analysis.
- Provide insightful analysis and challenge on all financial matters to identify efficiencies and make recommendations to senior management.
- Provide value added commentary on financial results and action plans to address issues and opportunities.
- Performance Measurement
- Work with senior colleagues to ensure effective and efficient use of resources and deliver improvement in KPI and league table performance.
- Ensure that all activities are fully costed so informed decisions can be taken on profitability.
- Monitor performance indicators to establish viability and sustainability of existing and new activity.
- Business Cases
- Manage the process of investment and project appraisal within the University.
- Produce clear and insightful financial business cases supporting both revenue and capital investments.
- Challenge and review critical assumptions made in business cases to identify risks and opportunities.
Essential Criteria
- Full membership of a CCAB accounting body (CIFPA, ACCA, ICAS, ICAEW, CIMA).
- Demonstrable experience of providing finance business partnering or equivalent within a commercial or HEI environment.
- Successful track record of working with non-financial managers to drive improvements in decision making and financial performance.
- Demonstrable experience of managing complex funding and financial regimes.
- Able to act on initiative, identify opportunities and be proactive in putting forward ideas and solutions.
- Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
- Able to prioritise workload to deliver to tight deadlines.
- Advanced skills in Microsoft packages such as Excel, Word, PowerPoint and accounting software.
- Proven analytical and problem solving capability.
- An ability to embrace and commit to leading change and innovation.
Desirable Criteria
- Previous experience in process improvement and change management.
- Knowledge and understanding of the HE sector and potential challenges.
- Experience of undertaking project work from inception to delivery of outcomes.
Additional Information
- Full time, Open ended.
- The closing date for applications is midnight on Wednesday 11 February 2026.
- Interviews are expected to take place on the week commencing Monday 23 February 2026.
- There is an expectation that work will be undertaken in the UK.
The University of Stirling recognises that a diverse workforce benefits and enriches the work, learning and research experiences of the entire campus and greater community. We are committed to removing barriers and welcome applications from those who would contribute to further diversification of our staff and ensure that equality, diversity and inclusion is woven into the substance of the role.
Business Partner in Falkirk employer: University of Stirling
Contact Detail:
University of Stirling Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Business Partner in Falkirk
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former employees at the University of Stirling on LinkedIn. A friendly chat can give us insider info about the role and help us stand out when we apply.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by researching the University’s financial strategies and recent developments in the sector. We want to show that we’re not just qualified, but also genuinely interested in their mission and challenges.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice our communication skills! Since this role involves explaining complex financial info, let’s rehearse how we’d break down tricky concepts into simple terms. It’ll make us more relatable and memorable.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure our application gets noticed. Plus, we can tailor our submission to highlight how our experience aligns with the University’s goals.
We think you need these skills to ace Business Partner in Falkirk
Some tips for your application 🫡
Know Your Audience: Before you start writing, take a moment to understand who will be reading your application. Tailor your language and examples to resonate with the finance professionals at the University. Show them you get their world!
Showcase Your Experience: Make sure to highlight your relevant experience in finance business partnering. Use specific examples that demonstrate your analytical skills and ability to provide valuable insights. We want to see how you've made a difference in previous roles!
Be Clear and Concise: Keep your application straightforward and to the point. Avoid jargon unless it’s necessary, and make sure your key achievements stand out. Remember, clarity is key when communicating complex financial information!
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to submit your application through our website for a smoother process. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves. Plus, it shows you’re keen on joining our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at University of Stirling
✨Know Your Numbers
As a 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 decision-making in previous roles. Prepare examples that showcase your analytical skills and how they’ve led to successful outcomes.
✨Build Rapport with Stakeholders
This role involves liaising with various stakeholders, so practice your communication skills. Think about how you can establish trust and rapport quickly. Consider preparing a few questions that show your interest in their challenges and how you can help address them.
✨Showcase Your Strategic Thinking
Be prepared to discuss how you've contributed to financial strategy and planning in the past. Highlight specific instances where your insights have influenced business decisions. This will show that you’re not just a number cruncher but a strategic partner who adds value.
✨Stay Updated on Sector Trends
Familiarise yourself with current trends and challenges in the higher education sector. Being able to discuss these topics during your interview will demonstrate your commitment to the role and your understanding of the environment in which the University operates.
