Chief Financial & Operating Officer

The University of York exists for public good. Enquiring minds, inspirational teaching, pioneering research, global ambition, local commitment, and social purpose are the foundations which underpin that commitment at our university.

We are a high-performing university where talented students, inspiring lecturers and world-class researchers thrive. We provide exceptional learning experiences that stay with our students for the rest of their lives, enabling them to flourish within and beyond their studies. Since our foundation in 1963, York’s focus on academic excellence has resulted in a strong reputation across the globe. A member of the Russell Group of Universities, we were ranked 19th in the Guardian University Guide 2024, and in the Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2023 we were ranked in the Top 50 in the world for Arts and Humanities and in the top 150 for Social Sciences.

In 2024 we’re embarking on a transformative journey. Following the reorganisation of our academic departments and schools in a decentralised Faculty structure, we are now realigning how we deliver Financial and Support Services across the institution. Reporting to the Vice-Chancellor & President, the newly created role of Chief Financial & Operating Officer (CFOO) is a key appointment in this new structure and will be an integral member of our executive team leading our finance, human resources, technology, estates and facilities, external relations and governance, assurance and compliance teams. In collaboration with the leadership team, you will develop and implement financial and operational strategies that promote long-term sustainability and continuous improvement in alignment to the University’s mission, vision and strategy.

Despite the sector's financial challenges, the University has a clear strategy for sustained surplus generation, has healthy reserves and has maintained a tight focus on its cost base. This appointment is future-focussed and will play a pivotal role ensuring that our operational functions are service-driven and complement our core academic mission of providing high-quality education and world leading research.

Candidates will be financially qualified and bring clear evidence of success as a transformational change leader in delivering professional services. Candidates need not have direct executive experience of having worked in higher education, but a deep appreciation of a learned environment with its associated decision making complexities along with evidence of an ability to successfully transfer into the sector is essential.

Closing date: 8 April 2024

We particularly welcome applications from female candidates, and candidates who identify as Black, Asian, Minority Ethnic or Global Majority are strongly encouraged to apply as they are currently under-represented in leadership roles at the University.

The University strives to be diverse and inclusive – a place where we can ALL be ourselves.

We particularly encourage applications from people who identify as Black, Asian or from a Minority Ethnic background, who are underrepresented at the University. 

We offer family friendly, flexible working arrangements, with forums and inclusive facilities to support our staff. #EqualityatYork

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