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- Tasks: Lead financial strategy and governance in a dynamic, mission-driven organisation.
- Company: Wellcome, a leading charitable foundation dedicated to advancing health and science.
- Benefits: Flexible working options, excellent benefits, and a culture that values diversity.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on global health challenges while working with top experts.
- Qualifications: Extensive finance leadership experience and strong strategic thinking skills.
- Other info: Join a collaborative environment focused on innovation and organisational effectiveness.
The predicted salary is between 72000 - 108000 £ per year.
We have appointed the executive search firm to lead the search for the Chief Finance Officer. Please note any application submitted directly to Wellcome may not be considered. Wellcome is one of the world's leading charitable foundations, dedicated to supporting science to solve the urgent health challenges facing everyone. The organisation has a long history of enabling breakthroughs that transform our current understanding of life, health, and wellbeing.
Wellcome is financially and politically independent, funding all its mission work from returns generated by its financial investment portfolio, valued at £39.9bn as of 30 September 2025. In 2024/25, the organisation invested £1.9bn into mission related research, partnerships, and programmes worldwide, and remains committed to spending £16bn between 2022 and 2032 to advance its mission. This independence allows Wellcome to take informed risks, pursue long term goals and tackle complex challenges beyond the remit of governments and traditional funders.
The Chief Finance Officer (CFO) is a crucial role in this multifaceted and highly complex organisation, requiring leadership through influence, consensus building and strong governance. The CFO will be working alongside leaders recognised globally for their contributions to science, policy, global health and investment and will participate in a wide range of discussions relating to operational performance, mission investment decisions, investment performance and organisational effectiveness.
The CFO will be a major driver, together with the COO, of operational efficiency, resource optimisation and disciplined budgeting. The Finance function has recently undertaken a significant implementation of an ERP system, Oracle Fusion, which is to conduct the majority of Wellcome's financial transactions. Wellcome is prioritising stronger controls and improved reporting to ensure it realises the full benefits of its systems integration.
A defining part of the role is navigating Wellcome's different types of financial activity, ensuring strong alignment, robust cashflow forecasting, long term financial modelling and liquidity oversight, and effective provision of financial insight that underpins investment decisions.
Wellcome is seeking a senior finance leader who will play a collaborative role in supporting the organisation's long term mission, with an emphasis on contribution, judgement, and the ability to shape thinking through providing clear financial insights and expertise to world leading experts in science and health.
The right individual will bring extensive finance leadership experience aligned to Wellcome's scale and complexity, a proven track record in a complex, high performing organisation, and the ability to act as an agent of change who can anticipate organisation needs and educate the organisation on future requirements. You will demonstrate excellent strategic thinking, strong interpersonal skills, and be credible and persuasive at all levels, with high intellect, high emotional intelligence, strong self awareness and a growth mindset.
Pragmatic, solutions focused, resilient, collaborative and comfortable with ambiguity, you will operate at pace and be aligned with Wellcome's values, supporting decisions that strengthen impact, sustainability and organisational effectiveness over time. Diversity and Inclusion is at the heart of everything we do. We are committed to cultivating a fair and inclusive environment, where everyone can be themselves and thrive. We are happy to discuss flexible working options for all roles. We work to ensure that our recruitment processes are as inclusive as possible to everyone. This includes making adjustments for people who have a disability or long-term condition.
Wellcome isn't just a supporter of great ideas, it's a great place to work. We offer excellent benefits and help our employees to develop in an open, respectful culture where differences are valued.
Chief Finance Officer employer: WELLCOME TRUST
Contact Detail:
WELLCOME TRUST Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Chief Finance Officer
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the finance sector and let them know you're on the lookout for CFO roles. You never know who might have the inside scoop on opportunities or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching Wellcome's mission and values. Show how your experience aligns with their goals, especially in areas like operational efficiency and financial insight. Tailor your responses to highlight your strategic thinking and collaborative approach.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your pitch! Be ready to articulate your leadership style and how you've driven change in previous roles. Use specific examples that demonstrate your ability to navigate complex financial landscapes and influence decision-making.
✨Tip Number 4
Don't forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, it shows you're serious about joining Wellcome and contributing to their mission of tackling health challenges.
We think you need these skills to ace Chief Finance Officer
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the Chief Finance Officer role. Highlight your relevant experience in finance leadership, strategic thinking, and any specific achievements that align with Wellcome's mission and values.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter should tell your story! Explain why you're passionate about Wellcome's mission and how your skills can contribute to their goals. Be genuine and let your personality shine through.
Showcase Your Financial Acumen: In your application, emphasise your experience with financial systems like ERP and your ability to navigate complex financial landscapes. Wellcome is looking for someone who can provide clear financial insights, so make that clear!
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to apply through our website! This ensures your application is considered properly. Plus, it’s the best way to stay updated on your application status and any next steps.
How to prepare for a job interview at WELLCOME TRUST
✨Know Your Numbers
As a Chief Finance Officer, 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 decisions in previous roles. This shows you’re not just about the numbers, but also about strategic thinking.
✨Understand Wellcome's Mission
Familiarise yourself with Wellcome’s goals and recent initiatives. Being able to articulate how your financial strategies can support their mission will set you apart. Show that you’re not just looking for a job, but that you genuinely care about their impact on global health.
✨Showcase Leadership Skills
Prepare examples of how you’ve led teams through change or complex projects. The CFO role is about influence and collaboration, so highlight your experience in building consensus and driving operational efficiency. Be ready to discuss how you can lead Wellcome’s finance function effectively.
✨Be Ready for Scenario Questions
Expect questions that assess your problem-solving skills in ambiguous situations. Think of scenarios where you had to make tough financial decisions or navigate challenges. This will demonstrate your resilience and ability to operate at pace, which is crucial for Wellcome’s dynamic environment.
