3-6 month interim finance role (to start ASAP) New Interim Opportunity – Research Accountant – to lead on financial accounting & reporting of the university's financial activities Start Date: September 2025 Temporary contract role (3–6 months) Full-Time or Part-Time Considered Charles Maidment from the Hays Senior Finance Interim Team has recently partnered with a well-known UK university to appoint an interim financial/reporting accountant on a temporary basis, starting in September 2025 for 3–6 months, while the organisation try to source a new permanent hire. About the roleWe’re looking for a Research Accountant to join our team to take the lead on the financial accounting and reporting of the university’s research activities. You’ll play a key role in ensuring accurate financial management, compliance, and insightful reporting, while also acting as a trusted business partner to Research Institutes and Core Research Facilities. Your responsibilities will include: Monthly accounting of research costs and preparing quarterly/annual accounts Providing research income and overhead estimates for departmental planning purposes Offering advice to financial and non-financial stakeholders, building strong working relationships Maintaining detailed reports, supporting external returns (e.g. HESA), and ensuring accuracy of data Acting as Finance Business Partner for Research Institutes and Core Research Facilities, supporting budget planning, financial monitoring and overhead calculations The role sits within the Management Information Section (MIS) team. We provide financial support to Academic and Professional Services departments, with responsibility for planning, budgeting, monitoring and reporting. What we’re looking for: A qualified accountant with experience or an interest in the Higher Education sector and how universities are funded. Strong accounting skills including budgeting, forecasting and other reporting. Excellent communication and analytical skills. Ability to work collaboratively across academic and administrative teams. Good excel skills and experience of using finance systems Key Responsibilities Lead financial reporting for research activities Ensure compliance with statutory and regulatory requirements Support budgeting, forecasting, and financial planning Collaborate with academic and administrative teams Provide backfill support for the current post-holder Deliver high-quality financial insight to support decision-making The EnvironmentThe finance team supports academic and professional services departments with planning, budgeting, and reporting. The role is flexible working, with occasional travel to the main campus. Hybrid work is available, offering flexibility and a positive work-life balance. AvailabilityThis role begins in September 2025, with CVs being reviewed ASAP. If you're interested or know someone who might be, please send your CV directly to Charles Maidment at Hays. Contact: Charles.maidment@hays.com 4715938