Finance Manager

An exciting opportunity has arisen for an experienced Finance Manager to join a leading London-based university within its Planning and Business Partnering team. This is a strategic leadership role, responsible for delivering high-quality financial support, driving performance, and influencing decision-making across the institution. You will act as a senior partner to academic and professional stakeholders, providing financial insight, leading a high-performing team, and supporting the delivery of the University’s financial strategy. Role Information: • Job title: Finance Manager • Department: Finance • Salary: £51,500 – £53,301 • Location: London (Hybrid working available) Key Responsibilities: Strategic Leadership & Business Partnering • Provide strategic and operational leadership across financial services, ensuring alignment with institutional objectives. • Act as a senior finance partner to Schools, influencing key decisions and improving understanding of business performance. • Build strong relationships with senior stakeholders, providing insight on financial strategy and business opportunities. Planning, Budgeting & Forecasting • Lead annual financial planning and budget-setting processes in line with University strategy. • Oversee consolidated reporting, forecasting and long-term financial planning. • Ensure accurate and timely production of financial information to support decision-making. Financial Analysis & Reporting • Provide high-quality financial analysis and insight to senior management and external stakeholders. • Support the development and review of business cases through investment appraisal and financial modelling. • Lead on key reporting areas including tuition fee setting, student number reconciliations and external returns. Governance, Controls & Compliance • Ensure robust financial controls and adherence to policies, procedures and regulatory requirements. • Promote value for money and effective resource management across the organisation. • Maintain compliance with financial regulations and reporting standards. Team Leadership & Service Delivery • Lead, develop and motivate a high-performing finance team. • Manage resources effectively to deliver high-quality financial support services. • Take ownership of service outcomes, ensuring delivery aligns with University values and strategic goals. Continuous Improvement & Change • Champion innovation and continuous improvement across financial processes and services. • Identify opportunities to enhance efficiency, transparency and service delivery. • Lead on service improvement initiatives and support organisational change programmes. Candidate Profile: • Strong experience in financial management, business partnering or a senior finance role • Proven ability to lead, develop and motivate teams • Experience of budgeting, forecasting and strategic financial planning • Strong understanding of financial governance, controls and regulatory requirements • Ability to influence senior stakeholders and support strategic decision-making • Excellent analytical, communication and organisational skills This vacancy will be actively shortlisted, so early applications are encouraged to avoid missing out.