Director of Finance

Role Description

The University of York exists for public good. Enquiring minds, inspirational teaching, pioneering research, global ambition, local commitment, and social purpose are the foundations which underpin that commitment at our university. Since our foundation in 1963, York’s focus on academic excellence has resulted in a strong reputation across the globe. A member of the Russell Group of Universities, we were ranked 19th in the Guardian University Guide 2024, and in the Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2023 we were ranked in the Top 50 in the world for Arts and Humanities and in the top 150 for Social Sciences.

Following a challenging period for the sector, we are now seeking to appoint a strategic individual to join us as Director of Finance. In this key role, you will work closely with the Chief Financial and Operating Officer (CFOO), to create and implement comprehensive financial strategies that resonate with our University's mission and goals. This is a unique opportunity to shape the financial operations of our institution, ensuring its sustainability and success.

Key Responsibilities:

• Strategically reshape and lead the Finance Department, including Procurement, Transaction Services, Accounting and Planning & Performance.
• Lead the financial planning process and the provision of high-quality financial management information
• Develop and implement comprehensive financial strategies that align with the University's mission and goals.
• Monitor and analyse financial performance, providing critical insights to the Chief Financial and Operating Officer.
• Implement robust financial controls and risk management practices to safeguard the University's assets.
• Provide strategic financial advice on major initiatives, capital projects, and investments.
• Foster a high-performance culture within the Finance Department, driving continuous improvement and efficiency in financial operations.

The Ideal Candidate:

• A professionally qualified accountant and member of one of the CCAB bodies
• Proven experience in financial leadership within a complex organisation (preferably in higher education).
• Experience of using finance to help deliver cultural change and commercial performance improvement.
• Strong strategic thinking, with the ability to align financial strategies with organisational goals.
• Expertise in financial management, risk assessment, and implementing effective financial controls.
• A leader who fosters collaboration, integrity, and a culture of high performance.

If you are ready to take on a pivotal role in our University's success and are driven by the challenge of shaping its financial future, we encourage you to apply.

We particularly welcome applications from Female candidates, and candidates who identify as Black, Asian, or from a Minority Ethnic background, are strongly encouraged to apply as they are currently under-represented in senior leadership roles at the University.

Closing Date: 07/10/2024
Interviews: 30/10/2024

Informal enquiries are encouraged. Please contact Paul Ellison (paul.ellison@york.ac.uk) HR Recruitment Adviser.

The University strives to be diverse and inclusive  – a place where we can ALL be ourselves.

We particularly encourage applications from people who identify as Black, Asian or from a Minority Ethnic background, who are underrepresented at the University. 

We offer family friendly, flexible working arrangements, with forums and inclusive facilities to support our staff. #EqualityatYork