Head of Transactional Finance

Join one of the UK’s leading universities, based in the heart of Central London. Known for its academic excellence and vibrant campus community, the university is seeking an experienced and dynamic Head of Transactional Finance to lead its Accounts Payable, Accounts Receivable, and Fees teams.

This is a fantastic opportunity to make a significant impact within a prestigious institution, supported by an excellent benefits package and a collaborative working environment.

As the Head of Transactional Finance, you will be responsible for overseeing the university’s transactional finance operations, leading a team of 10 across Accounts Payable (AP), Accounts Receivable (AR), and Student Fees. You will ensure the efficiency, accuracy, and compliance of financial processes while fostering a culture of continuous improvement.

This position is key to maintaining the financial integrity of the university and supporting its strategic goals.

1. Team Leadership

   • Manage and motivate a team of 10 finance professionals across AP, AR, and Fees.
   • Provide coaching and development opportunities to ensure high performance.
   • Allocate tasks and resources effectively to meet deadlines and objectives.

2. Transactional Finance Operations

   • Oversee end-to-end processes for AP, AR, and Fees to ensure accuracy and compliance.
   • Ensure timely and efficient processing of payments, invoices, and student fee collections.
   • Resolve complex queries and escalate issues as necessary.

3. Process Improvement

   • Identify and implement enhancements to systems and processes to improve efficiency and accuracy.
   • Support the transition to new systems or processes, ensuring minimal disruption.

4. Stakeholder Management

   • Collaborate with internal departments and external partners to address financial queries.
   • Provide clear and actionable reporting to senior leadership.

5. Compliance and Governance

   • Ensure all transactional finance processes comply with financial regulations and university policies.
   • Support audit processes by providing necessary documentation and explanations.

• Qualifications:

  • Professionally qualified accountant (ACA, ACCA, CIMA) or equivalent experience.

• Experience:

  • Significant experience leading transactional finance teams, ideally within large and complex organizations.
  • Strong knowledge of AP, AR, and fees processes, with a track record of driving improvements.
  • Experience within the higher education sector is highly desirable but not essential.

• Skills:

  • Proven leadership and team management capabilities.
  • Advanced proficiency with finance systems and Microsoft Excel.
  • Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills.

• Personal Attributes:

  • Analytical and solutions-oriented, with a focus on continuous improvement.
  • Adaptable and able to thrive in a fast-paced environment.
  • Collaborative, with a strong ability to engage and influence others.

• Generous annual leave entitlement.
• Access to a world-class pension scheme.
• Free or discounted access to university facilities, including libraries, gyms, and cultural events.
• Opportunities for professional development and career growth.
• Flexible working arrangements, including hybrid options.