Interim Head of Finance

Leading UK University6-month contract 2-3 days onsiteDay rate: £600-£750

A leading UK university is seeking an Interim Head of Finance to provide senior financial leadership during a critical planning and performance period. This role will support executive decision-making, oversee financial operations, and ensure regulatory and sustainability requirements are met within a complex Higher Education environment.

This is a high-impact assignment suited to an experienced interim who can step in quickly, provide stability, and deliver strong financial oversight.

• Provide strategic financial leadership to the faculty/professional services portfolio, supporting executive decision-making and institutional priorities

• Oversee budgeting, forecasting, and financial performance monitoring, ensuring alignment with university strategy and Office for Students expectations

• Deliver clear financial insight, risk analysis, and scenario modelling to senior stakeholders

• Ensure strong financial controls, governance, and audit readiness across the function

• Lead and support the finance team, driving delivery, accountability, and continuous improvement

• Senior finance leadership experience within Higher Education or similarly complex public sector organisations

• Strong understanding of university funding, regulatory pressures, and financial sustainability

• Proven ability to operate credibly at Executive/Board level

• Advanced financial modelling, forecasting, and analytical capability

• Excellent stakeholder engagement and change management skills

• Calm, delivery-focused interim mindset with the ability to add value quickly

This is an immediate requirement and offers the opportunity to influence financial strategy within a respected university environment.