Interim Deputy Financial Controller

Deputy Financial Controller

Location:

London (Hybrid working) Salary: £75,000 – £80,000 per annum

Contract:

14-Month Fixed-Term Contract Benefits :
Excellent annual leave, flexibility and DB pension package A large, pioneering London university is seeking an experienced and technically strong finance leader to join its Finance Directorate as Deputy Financial Controller on a 14-month fixed-term basis. This is a senior leadership opportunity within a complex education environment, offering the chance to shape financial governance, strengthen reporting standards, and drive continuous improvement for a key part of the team.

You will be responsible for audit, year end and financial reporting, and leading a team of 5.

Key Responsibilities:

Lead the timely production of statutory financial statements and manage the external audit process, ensuring continuous improvement. Partner with internal audit, coordinate management responses, and embed recommendations while maintaining a strong financial controls framework. Oversee cashflow forecasting, treasury management, and taxation compliance, including related strategic initiatives. Review and update finance policies to ensure regulatory compliance and best practice. Champion optimisation and effective use of the Oracle cloud-based ERP system, working with senior stakeholders to enhance capability and streamline processes.

Benchmark performance against peer institutions and drive innovation to improve efficiency and service delivery. Deputise for the Financial Controller, represent Finance on committees and projects, and support CFO-led initiatives. Lead, develop, and motivate a high-performing team while building strong relationships with senior academic and professional stakeholders. About You You will be a fully qualified accountant (ACA/ACCA/CIMA or equivalent) with substantial post-qualification experience in financial reporting and audit within a large, complex organisation.

You will bring:
Strong technical expertise in statutory reporting and compliance Experience managing external audit relationships A proven track record of strengthening financial controls Experience working with large ERP systems (Oracle preferred) Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills A collaborative leadership style focused on quality and service excellence