Senior Research Finance Officer
The University of Manchester is one of the world’s leading universities - ambitious, innovative and globally connected
We are seeking a motivated and collaborative individual to join our team as a Senior Research Finance Officer. This role offers an exciting opportunity to provide expert financial management and support across a portfolio of research awards within the University’s Finance Directorate. You will work closely with academic and professional services colleagues, contributing to the effective delivery of research funding in a dynamic and inclusive environment.
You will be responsible for:
* Managing all post-award financial activities across a portfolio of research grants, ensuring compliance with funder terms and conditions
* Providing accurate financial reporting, forecasting and budgetary advice to Principal Investigators and stakeholders
* Acting as the main point of contact for internal and external stakeholders, including funders and auditors
* Identifying financial risks, monitoring performance, and ensuring timely invoicing, claims and income recovery
* Line managing and supporting Research Finance Officers/Assistants, contributing to service improvement and stakeholder engagement
We welcome candidates who bring diverse perspectives, experiences, and approaches to their work.
About You
We encourage applications from individuals with a wide range of backgrounds and experiences. You should demonstrate:
Essential Criteria:
* AAT Level 4 qualification (or equivalent experience in a finance/accounting environment)
* Strong understanding of accounting principles, financial reporting and budgeting
* Excellent communication skills with the ability to engage a wide range of stakeholders
* Advanced IT skills, including Excel, with strong analytical and problem‑solving abilities
* Ability to organise and prioritise workloads effectively to meet deadlines
Desirable Criteria:
* Experience working in Higher Education or research finance
* Knowledge of systems such as Oracle Finance, PURE or Power BI
* Progress towards a professional accounting qualification (e.g. ACCA, CIMA)
* Experience of line management or supervising staff
* Understanding of research funding and associated financial and compliance risks
We value transferable skills and real‑world experience as much as formal qualifications.
Our benefits include:
* Generous annual leave entitlement (23–27 days based on length of continuous service), plus bank holidays
* Additional closure over Christmas/New Year
* Comprehensive health and wellbeing services including an Employee Assistance Programme
* Fantastic market leading Pension scheme
* Learning and development opportunities
* Season ticket loans, Cycle to Work, Nursery schemes
* Staff discounts and recognition schemes
As an equal opportunities employer we support an inclusive working environment and welcome applicants from all sections of the community regardless of age, disability, ethnicity, gender, gender expression, religion or belief, sex, sexual orientation and transgender status. All appointments are made on merit.
Flexible working options available; hybrid arrangements may be considered.
This role is not eligible for Skilled Worker visa sponsorship. Applicants must demonstrate the right to work in the UK.
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