Head of Finance & Planning (Partnerships & Costing)

Oxford Brookes University is distinctive in nature. We are a modern and forward thinking institution rooted in, and connected to a city with a rich history of culture and learning. We are a globally recognised University focused on providing high-quality teaching, delivering impactful research and an excellent student experience. Our vision is simple: “shape tomorrow through our unique blend of the modern and the traditional, by embracing diversity, seeking out the new and excelling in education and research.”

Based at our Headington campus and reporting to the Deputy Director of Finance (Financial Analysis and Planning), the Head of Finance and Planning (Partnerships and Costing) will be responsible for ensuring the financial sustainability of the University’s UK and international educational partnerships. This senior role will oversee the costing, evaluation, and monitoring of the University’s educational portfolio, applying Full Economic Costing (FEC) principles to inform strategic decision-making. Working closely with senior leaders, including the Pro Vice-Chancellors and the Head of Educational Partnerships, the post holder will lead on business case development, support commercial negotiations, and provide high-quality financial analysis and reporting to governance committees. With responsibility for managing and developing a small team, championing sector best practice, and representing the CFO in key internal and external forums, this role offers the opportunity to shape the University’s approach to income diversification, value for money, and long-term financial sustainability.

This is a full time post, but a fractional post of 0.8FTE or above will be considered.

The Financial Planning & Analysis department plays a central role in driving the University’s financial sustainability and supporting decision-making across all Faculties, Directorates, and strategic partnerships. We are responsible for delivering high-quality management information, financial planning, budgeting, forecasting, and insightful analysis to senior leaders, enabling them to make informed, data-driven decisions.

What will I be doing?  

• Leading financial planning for educational partnerships
• Leading the annual review of programme costing
• Partnership business case development & oversight
• Performance monitoring & reporting
• Building and maintaining effective working relationships with internal and external stakeholders

What skills do I need?  

• Senior experience in finance business partnering and strategic planning
• Proven ability to develop and deliver financial strategies, support budget holders, and advise non-financial managers
• Strong understanding and application of Full Economic Costing (FEC), TRAC, and/or costing methodologies
• Excellent communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills with authority at senior levels

This role offers a hybrid working arrangement, with an expectation of two days on campus per week.

As a senior staff member, you will enjoy a total of 30 days holiday, plus 8 Bank Holidays and additional University concessionary Days (approx 5 per year).

We have an extremely competitive Local Government pension scheme with a 19.2% employer contribution rate, as well as providing all staff with financial education, a comprehensive employee assistance helpline.

Equality, diversity and inclusion

At Oxford Brookes, inclusivity is one of our five guiding principles: we take positive steps to create an environment in which we celebrate, value and provide equal opportunity to all. We are committed to recruiting from the widest possible pool and welcome applications from all suitably qualified candidates who embrace our values, regardless of their background.

As a Disability Confident Employer we guarantee to interview any disabled applicant who meets the essential selection criteria.

To apply please click on the ‘Apply’ button above.

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