Senior Finance Business Partner

About the Role:

The University of the Arts London (UAL) is seeking a Senior Finance Business Partner to support the strategic financial direction of the University. This role will focus on liaising with budget managers across the University to manage financial resources effectively. As a key member of the finance team, you will play a critical role in financial planning, budgeting, and providing analysis to ensure long-term sustainability. You will also be part of the Associate Directorate’s Senior Management Team, contributing to key decision-making processes that influence UAL’s strategic objectives.

About UAL:

University of the Arts London (UAL) is one of the world’s leading institutions for education in art, design, fashion, and performing arts. With six world-renowned Colleges, UAL offers an inspiring and diverse learning environment, nurturing the creative leaders of the future. UAL prides itself on promoting a culture of innovation, inclusion, and sustainability, reflected in its strong commitment to social and environmental responsibility.

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead and manage substantial financial projects from inception to completion.
• Provide financial insights and support to Budget Managers to optimize decision-making.
• Deliver effective support for budgeting, forecasting, and reporting across various departments.
• Collaborate with academic and service leaders to align financial practices with strategic goals.
• Ensure accurate and timely financial reporting, and monitor progress against plans.
• Support the preparation of budgeting assumptions, risk management, and financial reporting.
• Develop and maintain financial management systems, including Agresso Business World (ABW).

About You:

• Professional accounting qualification, namely ACA, CIPFA ACCA, CIMA (or equivalent).
• Background in leading projects within a complex organisation ·
• Experience partnering with senior stakeholders
• Experience managing large data sets and delivering financial reports
• Advance Excel skills are essential
• Experience with Agresso or Unit 4 is desired
• Able to communicate complex financial information clearly
• Your leadership skills, agility in project management, and commitment to collaboration will be key to your success in this role.

Benefits include:

• 34 days of annual leave and 2 days off to volunteer plus bank holidays
• Flexible and Dynamic working options available from the first day
• Discounted Medical Insurance including Digital GP service, therapies, in-patient and day-case treatment
• Free counselling and advice via our Employee Assistance Programme (EAP) ▪ Sector-leading Equal Parental Leave policy (6 months full pay for both parents)
• Defined-benefit LGPS pension scheme
• In-house training and development including apprenticeships and free places on creative courses
• Interest free loans on travel and tech, discounts on gym memberships, nursery fees, eye care and much more
• Various opportunities to attend student shows and exhibitions

Apply now and be part of a dynamic and creative university committed to shaping the future of the arts and culture sectors!

Please get in touch with Megan Hunter for a confidential conversation about the role.