Head of Management Accounts

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.”

Our people are at the heart of the University - our excellence in teaching, research and knowledge exchange depends on the engagement, capability and wellbeing of our people. We strive to create and encourage an environment where people have the opportunity to develop, progress and thrive.

We proudly hold the Athena SWAN Bronze award, a testament to our unwavering dedication to creating an inclusive and equitable environment for all. Join us at Oxford Brookes University, where every step forward is a leap toward a brighter tomorrow.

The role

Reporting to the Deputy Director of Finance (Financial Analysis and Planning), the Head of Management Accounts will lead a team of 11 finance professionals to deliver accurate and timely management accounting services across the University. This role is pivotal in ensuring robust financial control, embedding process excellence, and supporting strategic decision-making.

About the team

You will join the Finance & Legal Services Directorate, a central function providing financial planning, analysis, and compliance to support the University’s strategic objectives. The team works collaboratively with senior stakeholders across the University, delivering high-quality financial information and advice to enable effective decision-making.

What will I be doing?

• Leading and developing the management accounting team, fostering a culture of excellence.
• Overseeing monthly/year-end reporting, ensuring accuracy and compliance.
• Driving process improvements/standardisation across management accounting.
• Supporting strategic planning/budgeting processes, including 5-year financial plans.
• Acting as a senior advisor to budget holders, providing clear, actionable financial insights.
• Managing relationships with internal/external auditors.
• Ensuring compliance with University Financial Regulations/best practice.

What skills do I need?

Essential:

• CCAB qualified or equivalent, or qualified by experience.
• Significant senior-level experience in management accounting, supporting large budgets (£50m+).
• Proven leadership/team development skills.
• Strong communication and influencing senior stakeholders.
• Advanced analytical/problem-solving skills.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office/ERP systems.

Desirable:

• Experience in the Higher Education sector.
• Knowledge of e5 ERP/Business Objects.

Location

Based at our Headington Campus, near Oxford city centre, you’ll enjoy a vibrant campus and modern facilities. This role offers hybrid working, typically 1–2 days on campus per week.

Benefits

As an Oxford Brookes employee, you will enjoy a total of a minimum of 25 days holiday, plus 8 Bank Holidays/University concessionary Days. 

We have an extremely competitive Local Government pension scheme with a 19.2% Employer contribution rate.

For more information please our website.

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.

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