£500 Per day
Outside
Hybrid
London
Role: Interim Head of Finance Systems
Length: 3 months
Location: University Campus (Hybrid)
The Role
The Head of Finance Systems leads the development and optimisation of finance systems to support the University's strategic objectives. They ensure that Finance-owned systems, including Unit4 ERP and Unit4 ERPx, and their integrations are effectively managed, maintained, and enhanced.
Key Responsibilities
- Maintain the integrity, security, and performance of all finance systems for which FST acts as systems administrator.
- Lead, develop, and manage a high-performing team of three, including a Graduate Scheme member, fostering a collaborative, flexible, and customer-focused culture.
- Define and deliver the finance systems strategy, ensuring alignment with the University's wider business objectives.
- Collaborate with stakeholders across the institution to design and implement innovative, efficient processes that enhance both student and staff experience.
- Act as the custodian of Finance-owned systems, overseeing their implementation, continuous improvement, and integration with upstream and downstream systems.
- Lead the implementation of new systems and enhancements, including developing project roadmaps and budget proposals to support strategic initiatives and optimise service delivery.
- Support the design and delivery of timely, accurate management information and financial reporting, enabling senior leadership to make informed decisions.
- Produce both regular and ad hoc analysis for committees and stakeholders.
- Ensure the accuracy, integrity, and compliance of financial data, supporting statutory returns to the Office for Students (OfS) and other funding bodies through robust validation and controls.
- Build strong relationships with stakeholders across the University, gathering requirements and delivering innovative solutions while influencing change and driving adoption.
About You
- Fully qualified accountant (ACA, ACCA, CIMA or equivalent).
- Demonstrated extensive experience in implementing and developing enterprise-level finance systems, including leading full lifecycle projects from requirements gathering through to deployment and optimisation.
- Played a key role in shaping finance systems strategy, ensuring alignment with organisational objectives and improving operational efficiency.
- Delivered system enhancements and integrations that improved data accuracy, reporting capability, and user experience across finance functions.
- Excellent stakeholder management and communication skills.
- Able to operate independently, prioritise effectively, and deliver under tight deadlines.