Financial Accountant

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 and 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.” 

Oxford Brookes University is based at our Headington campus and reporting to the Financial Controller, the Financial Accountant is responsible for managing the University’s financial accounting operations and working capital. You will ensure the integrity of the balance sheet, lead on treasury and cash management, and manage an Assistant Accountant while working closely with finance staff across the University and external auditors. 

The Finance and Legal Services (FLS) directorate ensures the University’s financial stability through robust reporting, tax compliance, and treasury management. The team manages key internal relationships across all faculties and external partnerships with auditors and tax advisors to meet strict regulatory and statutory requirements. We are committed to continuous improvement of internal controls and providing professional development and mentorship within the team. 

What will I be doing?

• Managing treasury operations, including cashflow forecasting and maximizing investment returns.
• Preparing the University’s Financial Statements and subsidiary accounts in accordance with HE SORP and UK accounting standards.
• Ensuring balance sheet integrity by overseeing reconciliations and the timely closure of the general ledger.
• Managing VAT and Corporation Tax returns and liaising with external advisors like KPMG.
• Performing monthly intercompany reconciliations to ensure accurate accounting across the group.
• Completing mandatory statistical returns for bodies such as the Office for Students (OfS) and HESA.
• Providing line management and mentorship to the Assistant Accountant, including setting performance objectives. 

What skills do I need?

• CCAB part-qualified (or international equivalent) is an essential requirement.
• Significant experience in financial management within a large, complex organization, including year-end processes.
• Strong analytical and numerical skills with proficiency in Excel and ERP systems.
• Excellent communication skills to engage with stakeholders at all levels.
• Proven time management abilities to coordinate processes and meet strict deadlines. 

This role is based in the Buckley Building at our Headington Campus, offering a modern office environment within a vibrant campus atmosphere. This is an agile role, supporting a hybrid working arrangement that combines office-based collaboration with remote flexibility. 

As an Oxford Brookes employee, you will enjoy a total of a minimum of 25 days holiday, rising with your service, plus 8 bank holidays and additional university concessionary days (normally 5 per year).  

We have an extremely competitive Local Government Pension Scheme with generous employer contributions, as well as providing all staff with access to an occupational health service, financial education, and a comprehensive employee assistance helpline.  

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.

Advert information