Financial Controller

Oxford Brookes University is distinctive in nature. We are a modern and forward-thinking institution rooted in 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.”

Based at our Headington campus in Oxford and reporting to the Director of Finance and Deputy Chief Financial Officer, the Financial Controller is one of four key managers leading central finance activities. These are the Deputy Director of Finance (Financial Analysis and Planning), Financial Controller, Head of Information Systems and Performance Improvement and the Risk and Resilience manager. The Financial Controller is responsible for leading a team of two Finance professionals to deliver all Financial Accounting activities, and Financial Services covering sales ledger and payroll teams.

This role is offered on a full or part-time basis up to 0.8 FTE

As Financial Controller you will:

• Lead the financial accounting operations of the University;
• Ensure the integrity of the internal financial control environment;
• Provide financial accounting reporting including for the capital programme;
• Ensure compliance with covenants;
• Carry out short, medium and long- term modelling and forecasting;
• Provide balance sheet reporting as part of the quarterly and year end management accounts, reporting requirements for the Finance and Resources Committee (F& RC) and the Board of Governors (BoG);
• Be responsible for the production of the statutory accounts/ Financial Statements;
• Provide management and review of the Financial Statements;
• Act as lead contact for the External Auditor;
• Ensure the correct application of VAT and submission of quarterly returns;
• Deliver the tax strategy, optimising the tax position for the University and advising on large Estates;

Please see the attached job description and person specification.

You will work alongside the Deputy Director of Finance (Financial Analysis and Planning) and across the University with the Heads of Finance and Planning, the Head of Finance Estates and Investment and finance staff in the faculties and directorates, colleagues in Academic and Student Affairs and other senior staff as required.

Experience required for post:

Experience of management accounting and financial accounting, the latter at a senior level, to include experience of compilation of the Financial Statements, liaison with the external auditor; cash flow forecasting, covenant compliance and treasury management. Experience of managing operational teams, sales ledger, and preferably but not compulsory, student finance and funding team, and payroll. Experience of staff training, leading teams and organisational change.

Please apply with a CV and cover letter outlining how your skills and experience align with the job description and person specification. Please note we will shortlist based on the information provided in your cover letter.

Interviews are expected to take place on 7th March 2025.

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.

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