Head of Financial Planning and Analysis Location: London (hybrid working available) Contract: Permanent Salary: Competitive, commensurate with experience About the role We are seeking an experienced Head of Financial Planning and Analysis (FP&A) to play a critical leadership role within a London university undergoing a major finance transformation programme. This role will lead the University's FP&A function, providing strategic financial insight and robust planning, forecasting and performance reporting to support decision-making across Faculties and Professional Services. Reporting to the Director of Finance, the postholder will be a key contributor to the successful delivery of the finance transformation agenda and the long-term financial sustainability of the institution. Key responsibilities Lead and manage the University's FP&A function, ensuring the provision of high-quality, timely and forward-looking financial information Develop and embed best practice approaches to budgeting, forecasting, long-term financial planning and scenario modelling within a higher education context Play a central role in the finance transformation programme, including financial process redesign, systems implementation and improved use of management information Produce clear, insightful financial performance reporting for Executive Board, Council and senior academic leaders Act as a trusted finance business partner to Faculties and Professional Services, supporting strategic planning, investment decisions and cost management Lead, develop and motivate an FP&A team, fostering a culture of continuous improvement and strong stakeholder engagement Ensure financial planning processes align with regulatory, funding and governance requirements specific to the higher education sector About you You will be a senior finance professional with substantial experience in a similar FP&A leadership role within a university or higher education institution. You will combine strong technical capability with the ability to influence, challenge and support senior stakeholders in a complex academic environment. Essential criteria: A recognised professional accounting qualification (ACA, ACCA, CIMA or equivalent) Significant experience working in a comparable FP&A or financial planning leadership role within a university In-depth understanding of higher education finance, including faculty-based budgeting models, student income, research funding and regulatory requirements Proven experience contributing to or leading finance transformation, systems implementation or major process change within HE Strong financial modelling, forecasting and analytical skills Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills, with the ability to present complex financial information clearly to non-finance audiences