Deputy Director of Finance (Financial Analysis and Planning)

Oxford Brookes University is distinctive in nature. We are a modern and forward-thinking institution rooted in, and connected to a city with a rich history of culture and learning. We are a globally recognised University focused on providing high-quality teaching, delivering impactful research and an excellent student experience. Our vision is simple: “shape tomorrow through our unique blend of the modern and the traditional, by embracing diversity, seeking out the new and excelling in education and research.”

The role

We are recruiting for a Deputy Director of Finance. Based at our Headington Campus and reporting to the Director of Finance, the Deputy Director of Finance, Analysis and Planning is responsible for designing and reporting the core financial analysis for the University in support of understanding the actual performance as well as forecasting and planning strategically for the University’s finances.

What will I be doing?

• Strategic and Financial Planning;
• Lead, advise and direct the annual five-year financial planning process for the University;
• Provide challenge to the Faculty and Directorate 5 year Financial Plan proposals;
• Model scenarios and assess financial risk to the 5 Year Financial Plan;
• Understand the equation between the surplus, profile of capital expenditure, cash flow and compliance with bank covenants;
• Promote a culture of innovation, ambition and challenge to drive income diversification;
• Implement planning and reporting software to finance and non-finance budget managers;
• Monitoring and Reporting, ensuring the process for reporting is continuously reviewed and improved making use of and optimising software;
• Manage the TRAC/Costing accountant in compiling the annual TRAC return and reviewing the workload planning inputs with faculty senior managers;

What skills do I need?

• CCAB qualified accountant with significant post-qualifying experience in complex and diverse organisations. A Levels or equivalent.
• Significant management accounting and financial planning (revenue and capital) skills.
• Ability to design, implement, lead and develop a high performing team.
• Excellent communication skills with all levels of staff and the ability to write reports for senior management and committees.
• Experience in using reporting software, Microsoft Office and advanced skills in Excel; use of large integrated financial systems.
• Ability to develop and use software packages for accounting/planning/costing and reporting.
• Ability to synthesise and analyse complex information and make sound judgements and decisions based on this.
• Manipulate and present data in a robust and transparent way.

Benefits

As one of the largest employers in Oxford we pride ourselves in the great experience we offer our staff. You’ll be joining a friendly, professional environment where every member of staff is recognised as important to the success of Oxford Brookes University. 

We encourage and support hybrid working where the role allows and ensure that you have the necessary equipment to allow you to work flexibly. This role will be hybrid typically requiring 2 days on campus per week.

To find out more about the benefits of working for Oxford Brookes please visit: www.brookes.ac.uk/job-vacancies/working-at-brookes .

At Oxford Brookes, inclusivity is one of our five guiding principles: we take positive steps to create an environment in which we celebrate, value and provide equal opportunity to all. We are committed to recruiting from the widest possible pool and welcome applications from all suitably qualified candidates who embrace our values, regardless of their background.

As a Disability Confident Employer, we guarantee to interview any disabled applicant who meets the essential selection criteria.