Joint Head of Finance (Job share role)

About the Blavatnik School of Government

Our vision is of a world better led, a world better served and a world better governed. We are a global school committed to improving the quality of government and public policymaking worldwide, through three routes: teaching current and future leaders; generating research with impact; and engaging with governments and practitioners.

More information about working at the School and available staff benefits can be found on our jobs page.

The role

A unique, flexible working, senior leadership opportunity, the joint Head of Finance will play a critical role in the next exciting phase of the Blavatnik School of Government.  Supporting the School’s Dean and Chief Operating Officer in analysing, planning and managing the School’s finances and its growing budget and research portfolio, they will contribute to key strategic decisions about the School’s development and management. They will co- lead the finance and research support teams (nine people) ensuring that they provide a customer-focussed, responsive service to its stakeholders, and that management and decision-making is informed by high quality financial data and analysis.

Providing assurance to the Dean, the Chief Operating Officer, the School’s Management Board and the Division that the School’s financial projections are robust and well-grounded, priorities will include managing reliable costing models for the School’s wide range of activities, using financial data effectively to provide input and challenge to the School’s strategic planning, and bringing financial acumen to bear in developing viable financing plans for new revenue streams.

They will provide leadership in financial planning activities, particularly in the preparation of the School’s annual budget, taking the lead in financial reporting and monitoring, ensuring the School’s financial position is closely monitored and that timely, accurate management information is provided to management and others. The post holder will co- manage the School’s finance and research support professionals and will be expected to recruit, train and manage any additional finance staff.

You

The post will suit a highly motivated individual with proven flexibility and initiative who is excited about helping to shape this new joint role and way of working for the School. The post holder should hold an accounting qualification and have substantial experience of working in a financial management role, ideally in a fast-moving environment.

Experience of the use of financial data to drive strategic decision-making in a proactive way will be particularly helpful.  Candidates should be able to demonstrate excellent interpersonal skills, including the ability to communicate complex financial issues to a non-financial audience, and be able to work effectively both independently and as part of a team.

Application process

Please upload a supporting statement that outlines how you meet the selection criteria in your own words, along with your CV and the details of two referees as part of your online application.

Closing date: 12 noon (UK time) on Tuesday 6 May 2025

In-person interviews:  Thursday 5 June and Monday 9 June

Pre-arranged, informal School visits prior to application are welcome.

Please contact Lucy Haworth to arrange a suitable time.

Advert information