Interim Head of Finance (Bristol University Press)

The role

Bristol University Press (BUP) is an award-winning social science publisher committed to making a difference and influencing social change.

We are seeking an Interim Head of Finance to lead financial planning, budgeting, forecasting, analysis and reporting across BUP. Reporting to the Chief Executive, you will provide strategic financial leadership, support decision-making and drive continuous improvement across the finance function.

This is an exciting opportunity to play a key role within a respected, internationally recognised publisher.

The University of Bristol also offers a strong employment proposition. University benefits include pension provision, learning and development, wellbeing support, staff networks, sustainable travel benefits and relocation support for eligible staff. Work-life balance provisions include flexible-working options such as blended working, 25 days of annual leave, seven University closure days and eight bank holidays, subject to the relevant policies and the requirements of the role.

What will you be doing?

• Leading the BUP finance function and acting as the organisation's senior finance professional.
• Providing strategic financial advice and insight to the Chief Executive and Senior Management Team.
• Overseeing budgets, forecasts, management accounts and financial reporting.
• Developing business cases and financial models to support strategic initiatives and growth.
• Improving financial performance, controls, systems and processes.
• Building strong relationships with key stakeholders across BUP and the University.
• Managing and developing an Assistant Accountant.

You should apply if

• You are a qualified accountant or have substantial relevant experience.
• You have experience providing financial leadership and commercial insight within a complex organisation.
• You can translate financial data into clear, actionable recommendations.
• You have strong technical accounting, analytical, Excel and financial modelling skills.
• You are an effective communicator who can influence and build credibility with a range of stakeholders.
• You have experience leading people and driving continuous improvement.
• Experience within publishing would be an advantage, particularly an understanding of the financial management, reporting and commercial drivers of an international publishing business.

Additional information

Contract type: Fixed-term until 30/11/2027

Work pattern: Full-time (part-time considered, minmum 0.8FTE)

This advert will close at 23:59 UK time on Thursday 26th November 2026

Informal enquiries can be made to Kathryn Earle, Chief Executive, BUP (Kathryn.earle@bristol.ac.uk)

Or Euan Hendrie, Head of Finance for the Faculty of Arts, Law & Social Sciences, (euan.hendrie@bristol.ac.uk)

Our strategy and mission

We recently launched our strategy to 2030 tying together our mission, vision and values.

Available documents

• SUPP113922 - Interim Head of Finance - JD.pdf

Advert information