At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead financial projects and support decision-making for various departments.
- Company: Join one of the UK's top universities with a vibrant campus community.
- Benefits: Enjoy a dynamic work environment with excellent career growth opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real impact while collaborating with senior leaders in a supportive team.
- Qualifications: Qualified accountant with strong communication skills and experience in business partnering.
- Other info: This is a fixed-term contract for up to 24 months.
The predicted salary is between 28800 - 48000 £ per year.
The University is seeking to recruit a Finance Manager to join our energetic and dynamic accounting team. This is a pivotal, high-visibility role offering the opportunity to contribute directly to the strategic direction of Professional Services departments, supported by a well-established Finance team. You will have the opportunity to participate in exciting projects, lead change and support a wide range of departments. As one of the UK's leading higher education institutions, this role offers a first-rate working environment and excellent career opportunity, whilst benefiting from a campus based community environment.
Key Responsibilities will include:
- Partner with senior stakeholders to support strategic and operational decision-making.
- Lead and develop the finance team to deliver accurate and timely reporting, budgeting, and forecasting.
- Identify and mitigate financial risks while driving cost-efficiency initiatives.
The role will sit within our Management Accounting Team reporting to the Director of Finance alongside the Academic Faculty Finance Managers. You will be responsible for financial partnering and support services to a range of professional services units, primarily in the Professional Support Services Directorate but also supporting all University departments through financial processes. Responsibilities as a minimum include:
- Financial forecasting, quarterly in-year and longer term (including cash flow and depreciation).
- Challenging assumptions where appropriate.
- Business planning and advice including capitalisation advice.
- Supporting the student residential accommodation rent setting process.
- Representing Finance on key University Boards.
Skills, Experience & Qualification needed:
- You will be a qualified accountant with experience providing business partner support to Senior Leaders.
- You will demonstrate excellent communication and interpersonal skills in order to build a network of key contacts across the University, and be a team player with a drive to get things right the first time.
- You will have the ability to both interpret and manipulate data to provide management information of a high standard, and be comfortable using an array of accounting software tools.
- You will be required to manage other staff within the Professional Services Accounting team as well as influence key stakeholders across the University.
This contract is fixed term for up to 24 months.
For informal enquiries: please contact Jamie Holliday at jamie.holliday@york.ac.uk
Finance Manager - Professional Services employer: University of York
Contact Detail:
University of York Recruiting Team
jamie.holliday@york.ac.uk
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Finance Manager - Professional Services
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the University’s strategic goals and how the Finance Manager role aligns with them. This will help you demonstrate your understanding of the institution's vision during discussions with stakeholders.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with current employees in the finance department or related areas. Engaging with them can provide insights into the team dynamics and expectations, which can be invaluable during interviews.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss specific examples of how you've successfully partnered with senior leaders in previous roles. Highlighting your experience in financial forecasting and risk management will showcase your suitability for this pivotal position.
✨Tip Number 4
Stay updated on the latest trends in higher education finance and accounting practices. Being knowledgeable about current challenges and innovations in the sector will help you stand out as a candidate who is proactive and informed.
We think you need these skills to ace Finance Manager - Professional Services
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Read the job description thoroughly to grasp the key responsibilities and required skills. Tailor your application to highlight how your experience aligns with the specific needs of the Finance Manager position.
Highlight Relevant Experience: Emphasise your qualifications as a certified accountant and any previous experience in financial partnering. Use specific examples that demonstrate your ability to support senior leaders and manage teams effectively.
Showcase Communication Skills: Since excellent communication is crucial for this role, include examples of how you've successfully built relationships with stakeholders in past positions. This could be through projects, presentations, or collaborative efforts.
Tailor Your CV and Cover Letter: Make sure your CV and cover letter are tailored specifically for this role. Use keywords from the job description and focus on your achievements in financial forecasting, budgeting, and risk management to stand out.
How to prepare for a job interview at University of York
✨Understand the Role
Make sure you thoroughly understand the responsibilities of a Finance Manager in a professional services context. Familiarise yourself with financial forecasting, budgeting, and the specific challenges faced by higher education institutions.
✨Showcase Your Communication Skills
Since this role involves partnering with senior stakeholders, be prepared to demonstrate your excellent communication and interpersonal skills. Think of examples where you've successfully influenced decisions or built strong relationships in previous roles.
✨Prepare for Technical Questions
Expect questions that assess your technical knowledge and experience with accounting software tools. Brush up on your understanding of financial reporting, risk management, and cost-efficiency initiatives to showcase your expertise.
✨Demonstrate Leadership Qualities
As you'll be leading a finance team, be ready to discuss your leadership style and experiences. Share examples of how you've developed team members and driven change in previous positions, highlighting your ability to motivate and guide others.