A reputable organisation is recruiting a Head of Financial Planning and Analysis An exciting opportunity has arisen for an experienced and commercially astute finance professional to join a large, complex organisation operating within the higher education sector.This is a senior leadership role requiring a qualified finance specialist with significant experience in financial strategy, planning, and operational delivery. The successful candidate will play a key role in shaping financial direction, influencing strategic decisions, and ensuring the highest standards of financial management and governance. The RoleReporting into senior leadership, you will act as a trusted advisor across a broad stakeholder base, providing strategic financial insight and ensuring robust financial planning, control, and reporting.You will lead financial reporting and business partnering activity, supporting long-term sustainability and enabling data-driven decision making across the organisation. Key ResponsibilitiesStrategic Finance & Leadership Contribute to the development and delivery of financial strategy and long-term planning Lead on the production of consolidated financial plans, including five-year budgets and forecasts Provide expert financial advice to senior stakeholders to support strategic decision-making Influence organisational direction through insight, analysis, and commercial evaluation Financial Management & Reporting Oversee budgeting, forecasting, and financial reporting processes Deliver high-quality management information, including variance analysis and financial commentary Ensure robust financial controls, compliance with regulations, and adherence to audit requirements Identify financial risks, opportunities, and value-for-money improvements Business Partnering Build strong relationships with senior stakeholders across diverse operational areas Translate complex financial data into clear, actionable insights for non-finance audiences Support investment appraisal, business cases, and commercial decision-making Team Leadership & Service Delivery Lead, develop, and motivate a high-performing finance team Set service standards and continuously improve financial processes and systems Ensure delivery of a responsive, customer-focused finance service Governance, Collaboration & Representation Represent the finance function at senior internal and external forums Collaborate across departments to ensure alignment with organisational strategy Contribute to policy development, ensuring compliance and best practice About YouYou will be a proactive and influential finance leader with the ability to operate at both strategic and operational levels. Essential Requirements Fully qualified accountant (CIPFA, CIMA, ACA/ICAEW or equivalent) Significant senior finance experience, ideally within higher education or a similarly complex environment Proven track record in budgeting, financial planning, and commercial appraisal Strong leadership experience with the ability to develop and manage teams Experience of business planning and strategic financial management Key Skills & Attributes Ability to communicate complex financial information clearly to non-financial stakeholders Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with sound judgement Experience influencing senior stakeholders and building strategic relationships Demonstrated ability to drive service improvements and deliver high-quality outcomes Highly organised with the ability to prioritise and manage multiple demands Why Apply?This role offers the opportunity to: Influence strategic decision-making at a senior level Play a key role in shaping financial direction within a complex organisation Lead meaningful change and continuous improvement Work in a collaborative, values-driven environment What you need to do now If you're interested in this role, click 'apply now' to forward an up-to-date copy of your CV, or call us now. If this job isn't quite right for you but you are looking for a new position, please contact us for a confidential discussion on your career. 4800973