The client is seeking a Head of Finance Business Partnering for a permanent role based in Manchester. The position requires a hybrid presence of 2-3 days a week across various campuses and offers a competitive salary with a discretionary bonus scheme of up to 10%. The client supports an inclusive work culture and encourages candidates from diverse backgrounds to apply, particularly those underrepresented at senior levels. The awarding body for the institution serves as a critical partner in both academic and financial governance. This role involves significantly influencing how the client plans and invests as it prepares for the next phase of its growth journey.
In this pivotal role, the Head of Finance Business Partnering will report to the Finance Director or Chief Finance Officer, acting as the primary finance voice in decision-making processes. Responsibilities include guiding annual and long-range planning, such as cash forecasts, quarterly reviews, budgets, and three-year plans. The successful candidate will help senior management and the Board make well-informed, timely decisions by ensuring every investment or initiative has a clear financial rationale. The role requires a hands-on approach to solving problems, building practical planning models, and helping teams align performance with the clients goals without hindering progress.
The ideal candidate will possess a relevant degree or equivalent professional qualification and membership in a UK professional accountancy body. Extensive post-qualification experience at a senior level in a fast-paced, finance-focused environment is essential. Experience within higher education or regulated environments is advantageous, especially for candidates from commercial or investor-backed education organizations. The role demands proficiency in managing organizational budgets, financial planning, forecasting, and process improvements. Skills in finance business partnering, process standardization, and operational finance, including payroll, are also critical for success in this role.