Deputy 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.

In light of the challenging and evolving landscape within the sector, we are now searching for a forward-thinking Deputy Director of Finance to contribute to the University's finance leadership. Working alongside the Director of Finance this role will lead and manage the University's financial operations, ensuring the accuracy and timeliness of financial reporting, driving financial performance improvement, and maintaining strong financial controls and compliance with all relevant regulations. The Deputy Director of Finance encompasses overseeing financial accounting, leading business finance transformation initiatives, managing audit processes, and contributing to the development and implementation of the University's overall financial strategy.

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead the financial reporting process, including management accounts, statutory accounts, and other key financial reports for internal and external stakeholders.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant accounting standards, regulations, and internal controls.
• Drive the implementation of new financial systems and technologies to improve efficiency and effectiveness.
• Oversee all aspects of internal and external audits, including liaising with auditors and ensuring timely and effective responses to audit queries.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant audit and regulatory requirements.
• Oversee the production of accurate and timely financial statements in accordance with UK GAAP and statutory requirements.

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).
• Expertise in financial management, risk assessment, and implementing effective financial controls.
• A leader who fosters collaboration, integrity, and a culture of high performance.

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: 16/03/2025
Interviews: 02/04/2025

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

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