The Post We are seeking a strategic and highly collaborative Head of Finance Transformation – Processes and Systems to lead the evolution of our finance function with a strong hands-on approach. This role will be responsible for designing, streamlining, and optimising finance processes, maintaining and enhancing finance systems, and preparing the organisation for the implementation of new systems. The successful candidate will serve as a primary liaison between Finance, Information services (IS), and wider business stakeholders, ensuring that processes and systems effectively support strategic growth, operational efficiency, and regulatory compliance. Description of Duties Key Duties and Responsibilities Finance Process Transformation: Map, review, and optimise end to end finance processes (Procure to Pay, Record to Report, Order to Cash, Planning & Reporting) Strategically assess complex financial data and end-to-end processes to identify inefficiencies, control weaknesses, and compliance risks. Drive the design and implementation of scalable process improvements and automation, applying creative and analytical thinking to re-engineer workflows and establish more effective, future-ready operating models Standardise finance processes and embed best practices across the organisation Lead change management initiatives, including training and stakeholder (both internal and external) engagement, to ensure sooth adoption of new processes and systems Act as a trusted advisor, providing expert guidance on process optimisation and system solutions Finance Systems Management and Implementation: Maintain and optimise existing finance systems, ensuring data integrity, compliance and efficiency Prepare finance processes and systems for new system implementations (e.g. ERP, cloud finance platforms, reporting tools etc) Serve as Capability Lead for the Student Accounts capability within the Student Information System (SIS) implementation project Provide strategic project leadership for Agresso (Unit4) system developments, bringing together cross-functional stakeholders to define requirements, oversee delivery, and manage end-to-end project plans, ensuring system enhancements support wider process improvement and transformation Collaborate with IS, vendors and business stakeholders on system improvements and change initiatives Reporting and Analytics Lead the development, automation and standardisation of operational and management reports Ensure an effective balance between in built system-generated operational reports and cross system Power BI solutions to deliver accurate, timely, and meaningful data outputs Establish reporting standards, with aligned data definitions, and best practices to ensure consistency and reliability across the organisation Collaborate with cross-functional teams to understand reporting needs and translate into scalable solutions Leadership and Stakeholder Management Lead and mentor the Finance Systems Analyst, offering guidance, support and development, whilst also providing direction to cross functional project teams to drive effective and timely project delivery Partner with finance, IS, business stakeholders and external consultants to ensure successful delivery of transformation initiatives Communicate progress, risks, opportunities and outcomes to senior leadership Essential Criteria Qualifications Qualified accountant (ACA, ACCA, CIMA) or equivalent Knowledge & Experience Extensive experience in finance transformation, process optimisation and finance system implementation Proven experience as a system capability lead or project lead is highly desirable Advanced Power BI skills (or equivalent), including dashboard creation and data modelling Strong knowledge of finance processes and a working knowledge of any ERP systems (e.g. Unit 4, Oracle, SAP, Workday) Desirable Criteria Skills & Attributes Strategic thinking with a hands-on delivery focused approach Excellent analytical and problem solving skills Strong project and change management experience Strong stakeholder engagement skills Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to convey complex information and data clearly and professionally at all levels throughout the university Exceptional leadership and influencing skills Ability to drive change and influence at all levels Additional Information Full time Open ended The closing date for applications is midnight on Monday 05 January 2026. There is an expectation that work will be undertaken in the UK. This role may be eligible for sponsorship depending on candidate circumstances under SOC code 1131. The University of Stirling recognises that a diverse workforce benefits and enriches the work, learning and research experiences of the entire campus and greater community. We are committed to removing barriers and welcome applications from those who would contribute to further diversification of our staff and ensure that equality, diversity and inclusion is woven into the substance of the role. We strongly encourage applications from people from diverse backgrounds including gender, identity, race, age, class, and ethnicity. For a full description of duties and essential/desirable criteria please click the apply button, which will take you directly to the University Website.