Head of Research Finance

The University of Surrey is a global community of ideas and people, dedicated to life-changing education and research. Set within its Guildford-campus, its 3,000 staff provide exceptional teaching and practical learning to over 16,000 students. A home to research excellence, Surrey provides world-class research facilities and an environment to nurture and develop academic research into real world commercial applications.

The University is seeking to appoint its Head of Research Finance, responsible for providing leadership and strategic direction for the Research Finance function. You will be responsible for the oversight of a complex portfolio of research projects worth over £50m per annum acting as the senior financial expert for all research finance matters.

As Head of Research Finance, you will:

• be responsible for maintaining and enhancing a strong financial control environment, particularly in relation to research grants and contracts 
• provide expert financial guidance, and drive long-term improvements in processes and service delivery
• oversee financial reporting, analysis, and management information for research activities, setting service standards and ensuring the delivery of a customer-focused service to faculties
• lead an establish research finance team including Post Award, Studentship, and the broader Research Finance function.

Experience

The successful candidate will desirably have experience with a research finance function, with leadership experience of a finance team. A professional accounting qualification is preferred, but it is essential you understand how an organisation's finances operate.

How to apply

The University of Surrey has engaged the services of The McLean Partnership, to whom applications should be sent by midnight on Monday 24th March 2025.

To apply, please send a concise covering statement and CV to The McLean Partnership via surrey@mcleanpartnership.com, reference: UoS/RF. 

For an informal and confidential conversation before applying, please call Caius Freeman on 07517 950 934.

The University of Surrey is committed to providing an inclusive environment that offers equal opportunities for all. We place great value on diversity and are seeking to increase diversity in our community. Therefore, we particularly encourage applications from under-represented groups such as people from Black, Asian and minority ethnic backgrounds, women and people with disabilities.

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