Senior Finance Officer

About us UCL is one of the world's top universities based in the heart of London. It is a modern, outward-looking institution. UCL's staff and former students have included 33 Nobel prizewinners. It is a truly international community: more than one-third of our student body – more than 50,000 strong – come from 150 countries and nearly one-third of staff are from outside the UK.The

Physics and Astronomy Department is located in the heart of the historical area of Bloomsbury. Scientific research and study has been a strong feature of UCL since its inception in 1826 and the Department is currently one of the top ranked Physics departments in the country, and indeed the world. We have forged an internationally renowned reputation for being at the forefront of world leading research and providing high class teaching.

Those joining us can expect to be part of a dynamic community of Physicists and Astronomers whose enthusiasm for science and innovation is exceptional.

About the role

We are seeking a Senior Finance Officer to provide comprehensive and effective finance support across departments within the Faculty/Professional Services Finance team. Reporting to the Finance and Operations Manager, with a dotted line to the Deputy Director of Operations in the faculty, the postholder will support financial operations and priorities, ensuring the accuracy of accounting records and transaction processing for assigned business areas, excluding research finance.

The role will act as a key operational finance contact for departments, providing guidance on financial processes, resolving complex queries and supporting compliance with UCL Financial Regulations, delegated authority limits and local financial controls.

The postholder will also contribute to budgeting, forecasting, month-end and year-end processes by collating and validating financial data, monitoring expenditure against budgets and highlighting potential variances. They will work collaboratively with central and local finance teams, including the PS Hub and Procurement, to improve processes, support accurate reporting and promote consistent use of UCL financial systems.

This post is available as a secondment cover until 31 July 2027.If you have any queries about the role, please email our HR team here:  About youThe successful candidate will demonstrate experience in a management accounting or finance role. You will have experience of supporting financial reporting, budgeting or forecasting activities and will understand financial regulations, internal controls and financial processes within an organisational environment.

You will bring excellent data analysis and reconciliation skills, strong attention to detail and the ability to use Microsoft Office, databases and web-based finance systems confidently. You will be organised, able to manage competing deadlines and capable of applying judgement and initiative when resolving issues or escalating matters appropriately.

Strong interpersonal, problem-solving and communication skills are essential, including the ability to build effective working relationships and explain financial information clearly to non-finance stakeholders. You will be comfortable working collaboratively in a service delivery environment and supporting simple, consistent ways of working.  The role may include line management responsibility for assigned staff, including allocating work, supporting performance and development, and ensuring finance activities are delivered in line with agreed service standards and timescales.

Experience of working in a higher education institution or similarly complex organisation would be an advantage. A commitment to advancing equality, diversity and inclusion, and to working in line with…