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- Tasks: Lead financial strategy and governance for a transformative university.
- Company: University of the West of Scotland, a socially driven institution with global impact.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, professional development, and the chance to shape future leaders.
- Other info: Join a dynamic team dedicated to reducing inequalities and enhancing educational quality.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in education and community transformation through financial leadership.
- Qualifications: Qualified accountant with senior financial leadership experience in complex environments.
The predicted salary is between 75000 - 100000 £ per year.
University of the West of Scotland (UWS), a large, socially driven multi-campus institution with origins dating back to 1897, is seeking an exceptional Director of Finance to provide strategic financial leadership at a pivotal moment in the University's journey. With five campuses across Scotland and London, over 24,000 students drawn from more than 100 nationalities, income of £163 million, and a bold Strategy 2030 focused on transforming communities through research and education, UWS is an anchor institution with real national and global reach.
The University is seeking a proven financial leader to join the Vice-Principal Finance & Infrastructure's senior team and take strategic ownership of its finance and procurement functions. Reporting to the Vice-Principal Finance & Infrastructure and acting as a trusted adviser to the Vice-Chancellor's Executive and Court committees, you will develop and execute the University's financial strategy, ensure long-term financial sustainability, and maintain the highest standards of financial governance and reporting. You will lead a professional community of approximately 30 colleagues across Finance and Procurement.
We are seeking an experienced leader with a proven track record of senior financial leadership in a complex, multi-stakeholder environment. You will be a qualified accountant with the strategic acumen to deliver robust financial planning and performance management, and the leadership capability to build and inspire high-performing teams. As comfortable providing assurance to governing bodies and external regulators as you are partnering with academic and professional colleagues across five campuses, you will bring the personal authority, commercial awareness, and collegial instinct that this role demands.
This is a rare opportunity to help shape the future of a University ranked 2nd in Scotland and 26th in the world for reducing inequalities, and internationally recognised for the quality of its research and education. If you are ready to bring financial leadership with genuine social purpose and to play a central role in an institution that exists to make a difference, we would very much like to hear from you.
The closing date for applications is 09:00 am BST on Monday 1st June 2026.
Director of Finance in Paisley employer: University of the West of Scotland
Contact Detail:
University of the West of Scotland Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Director of Finance in Paisley
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the finance sector, especially those who have experience in higher education. A friendly chat can lead to insider info about job openings or even a referral.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching UWS's financial strategies and recent developments. Show us you’re not just another candidate; demonstrate your passion for their mission and how your skills align with their goals.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your pitch! Be ready to articulate your leadership style and how you’ve successfully managed teams in complex environments. We want to see your confidence and strategic thinking shine through.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take the initiative to engage directly with us.
We think you need these skills to ace Director of Finance in Paisley
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter for the Director of Finance role. Highlight your relevant experience in financial leadership and how it aligns with UWS's mission and values. We want to see how you can contribute to our Strategy 2030!
Showcase Your Achievements: Don’t just list your responsibilities; showcase your achievements! Use specific examples that demonstrate your strategic acumen and leadership capabilities. We love seeing quantifiable results that reflect your impact in previous roles.
Be Authentic: Let your personality shine through in your application. We’re looking for someone who not only has the skills but also shares our passion for making a difference in education and communities. Be genuine about your motivations and aspirations!
Apply Through Our Website: For the best chance of success, make sure to apply directly through our website. This ensures your application is seen by the right people and helps us keep track of all candidates. We can’t wait to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at University of the West of Scotland
✨Know Your Numbers
As a Director of Finance, you’ll need to demonstrate your financial acumen. Brush up on key financial metrics relevant to the university sector, such as income streams, budget management, and financial sustainability. Be ready to discuss how you've successfully managed finances in previous roles.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Style
This role requires strong leadership skills. Prepare examples that highlight your experience in building and inspiring teams. Think about specific challenges you've faced and how you motivated your team to overcome them, especially in a multi-stakeholder environment.
✨Understand the University’s Vision
Familiarise yourself with UWS's Strategy 2030 and its commitment to transforming communities. Be prepared to discuss how your financial strategies can align with and support this vision. Showing that you understand their goals will set you apart from other candidates.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect scenario-based questions that assess your problem-solving abilities. Think through potential financial challenges a university might face and how you would address them. This will demonstrate your strategic thinking and readiness to tackle real-world issues.