Finance Manager

Location: Oxford Population Health (Nuffield Department of Population Health, University of Oxford), Old Road Campus, Headington, Oxford, OX3 7LF

The Nuffield Department of Population Health undertakes world-leading research into long term, chronic health conditions, operating large-scale long-term studies and projects to identify the causes, prevention and treatment of diseases that result in avoidable suffering for millions of people around the world. The administrative teams are closely integrated within the department and work with all levels of staff who are committed to the research and teaching undertaken.

This is an exciting opportunity to join the department as Finance Manager, playing a key role in the effective financial management of Oxford Population Health. Working closely with the Deputy Head of Finance and senior colleagues, you will have operational responsibility for departmental budgeting, forecasting and financial reporting, while leading the Accounts Team and ensuring the delivery of high-quality financial services across the department.

You will lead the department’s annual budgeting and reforecasting processes, monitor financial performance and provide detailed management information, analysis and strategic financial advice to senior academics, budget holders and departmental leadership. You will oversee the department’s core financial services, including purchase to pay, accounts receivable, banking, journals, expenses, credit cards, VAT compliance and asset management, and ensure that robust financial procedures and controls are in place and compliant with University Financial Regulations and external requirements. You will also work closely with the Grants Team to support the effective financial management of research funding, oversee financial arrangements for the department’s postgraduate programmes and contribute financial expertise to departmental, Divisional and University committees.

You will have substantial relevant financial management and accounting experience, with the ability to manage complex budgets, prepare forecasts and management reports, analyse financial performance and provide authoritative financial advice to senior stakeholders. Excellent analytical, communication and organisational skills are essential, together with the ability to exercise sound judgement, manage competing priorities and work effectively with colleagues at all levels. You will also have strong leadership and people-management skills, with the ability to lead and develop a finance team, promote continuous improvement and maintain high standards of financial control and service delivery. Knowledge of financial regulations and accounting procedures within a large and complex organisation, particularly a higher education or research environment, would be advantageous.

This is an excellent opportunity for an experienced finance professional to take on a broad and influential role within a large, research-intensive department, contributing to effective financial decision-making and supporting the department’s long-term financial sustainability.

In return we offer an excellent benefits package including:

• 38 days annual leave (pro rata for part time)
• Hybrid working
• An excellent contributory pension scheme
• Childcare services
• Family leave schemes
• Cycle and electric car loan schemes
• Employee Assistance Programme
• Membership to social and sports clubs
• Discounted bus travel and travel loans
• Weekly coffee and cake mornings, and social events throughout the year

This role is based in Oxford, and offered on a full-time basis. It is a fixed-term post for 2 years.

The closing date for applications is 12.00 noon on 14 September 2026. Interviews are expected to be held in person on 29 September 2026.

You will be required to upload a CV and a cover letter as part of your online application. The cover letter should clearly describe how you meet each of the selection criteria listed in the job description. Click 'Apply' above. 

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