Position: Interim Head of Financial Planning & Analysis
Location: West London
Contract: 12-months
Reports to: Chief Financial Officer (CFO)
Start date: ASAP
Role Overview:
The University is seeking an experienced and dynamic Interim Head of Financial Planning & Analysis to join the Financial Leadership Team. This key role involves leading financial planning, analysis, and reporting processes across the University to support high-level decision-making. As part of a forward-thinking team, you will play a crucial role in shaping financial strategies, guiding senior leadership, and ensuring alignment with the University's overall objectives.
Key Responsibilities:
Leadership & People Management
* Build and nurture effective business partner relationships across the University.
* Foster a culture of customer-centric service across all finance operations.
* Work closely with the Associate CFO, Finance Business Partners, and other teams to deliver a cohesive service.
* Lead and mentor a team of 4, ensuring professional development and performance.
Financial Reporting & Analysis
* Lead data collection, consolidation, and scenario analysis during budgeting and forecasting cycles, collaborating closely with the Planning Directorate.
* Deliver clear, accurate, and insightful financial and management reports, supporting decision-making at the University’s senior levels.
* Regularly prepare briefing papers for senior stakeholders, including the Finance Committee and Collegiate Council.
* Develop and implement key financial and non-financial KPIs, ensuring effective internal and external reporting.
* Own financial reporting systems and processes, driving improvements where necessary.
* Run a planning tool project to merge data from one ERP system to another.
Strategic Financial Planning & Support
* Lead the University’s budgeting process, ensuring alignment with operational goals and strategic objectives.
* Collaborate with the CFO to shape the University’s financial strategy and long-term funding plans.
* Oversee performance reviews and support the management of financial risks across the institution.
* Lead the development of business and investment cases, ensuring sound financial appraisals and analysis.
* Partner with external consultants to implement a new planning tool, and manage its ongoing administration.
Process & Resource Management
* Assist in managing the Finance & Planning Department and provide senior team cover as needed.
* Ensure process resilience and continuous improvement within the FP&A team.
* Support the wider finance team with mentoring and skills development, helping to raise overall financial literacy across the University.
Additional Duties
* Contribute to the overall success of the Finance Division, collaborating with colleagues on various initiatives.
* Perform other duties as required by the CFO, consistent with the responsibilities and grade of the role.
Key Competencies & Skills:
* Timeliness & Deadline Management: Ensure projects are delivered on time and to a high standard.
* Effective Communication: Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to influence and engage at all levels.
* Proactive Problem-Solving: Ability to independently analyse complex issues and present solutions.
* Adaptability & Flexibility: Comfortable managing competing priorities and shifting demands.
* Networking & Collaboration: Build strong networks within the University and with external stakeholders.
* Leadership & Influence: Strong management capabilities, with the ability to mentor and guide both team members and senior leadership.
Essential Qualifications & Experience:
* Educational Requirements: Degree-level qualification.
* Professional Certification: CCAB-qualified (or equivalent).
* Experience:
* Proven experience in a complex professional service environment.
* Significant experience in financial planning, budgeting, forecasting, and analysis.
* Business partnering experience, particularly in a higher education sector.
* Strong technical financial skills across risk management, financial accounting, and reporting.
* Ability to lead complex analysis and financial modelling, providing strategic insights.
* Additional Attributes:
* High degree of professionalism, with credibility and influence at senior levels.
* Independent, proactive, and tactful in challenging situations.
* Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
The University’s Commitment:
As a member of the University, you will be expected to:
* Adhere to the principles of equality, diversity, and inclusion in all aspects of your work.
* Follow University policies on Data Protection, Health & Safety, and Environmental Sustainability.
* Engage in continuous professional development.
This is a fantastic opportunity for an ambitious finance leader to contribute to the growth and success of a prestigious institution. If you have the expertise to make a significant impact and thrive in a collaborative, fast-paced environment, we would love to hear from you.