Innovate UK, part of UK Research and Innovation, is the UK’s innovation agency. Our mission is to help the UK’s innovators turn brilliant ideas into real-world impact - growing the economy, creating high-quality jobs and improving lives. The Finance team sits at the heart of that mission safeguarding public funds, providing clear insights for decision-makers and making it simple for colleagues and partners to do the right thing, first time.
We are searching for our new brilliant Head of Finance – Major Programmes, an exciting role leading on forecasting, modelling, shaping high-quality management reporting and building a modern business partnering function that gives leaders the insight to make confident, value-for-money decisions. Reporting to the Director of Finance, The Head of Finance will oversee budget preparation, monitoring and variance analysis, coordinate submissions to UKRI and government and ensure one version of the truth across portfolios. You’ll represent Innovate UK with senior stakeholders across UKRI, DSIT, Treasury, NAO, internal audit and partner organisations.
You will need strong stakeholder management skills to partner with Programme Directors, PMO and Delivery leads across our biggest investments, building robust funding models, scenario plans and business cases that stand up to scrutiny. Success will look like confident decisions, predictable delivery and measurable impact from public funding - achieved through strong relationships, modern tooling and disciplined execution.
We’re looking for a CCAB/CIMA-qualified finance leader with a track record running an end-to-end finance function - from month-end and statutory close support to strategic planning - within a fast-paced, service-oriented environment. You’ll bring sharp analytical skills, deft stakeholder management and proven experience in process improvement, systems change and team leadership. Public sector experience is advantageous.
In return, you’ll join a mission-driven team with flexible working, 30 days’ annual leave plus public and privilege days, an exceptional defined-benefit pension and a culture that values inclusion, collaboration and impact.
Innovate UK are working two days per week in the Swindon office.
Archer Mac have partnered with Innovate UK on this exciting opportunity. Please do reach out to stephanie.robinson@archermac.co.uk or 07513 221028 for an informal conversation and details on how to apply.