Finance Manager (Research & Development)

NHS; Exeter; On-site; GBP 40,000 - 55,000; Full time

Job summary

A national healthcare organization is seeking an experienced finance professional to oversee the financial operations of the Research and Development team. This role involves providing financial advice, supporting funding management, and ensuring compliance with regulations. Candidates should have a relevant finance qualification and experience in budgeting and financial reporting. The position offers a supportive work culture and comprehensive benefits, including flexible working schemes.

Benefits

Flexible working schemes

27 to 33 days paid annual leave

Occupational health services

Staff discounts

Cycle-to-work scheme

Qualifications

• Experience in managing finance in a healthcare setting.
• Proven track record of providing strategic financial advice.
• Ability to manage complex enquiries and funding processes.

Responsibilities

• Oversee the finance team ensuring compliance with internal procedures.
• Support management of R&D funding and cost recovery.
• Provide financial assistance to R&D teams and contribute to reporting.

Skills

Finance management

Financial reporting

Stakeholder engagement

Budgeting

Education

Relevant finance qualification

Tools

Excel

Accounting software

Job description

Job Summary

The Research and Development department at Royal Devon manages multi‑million‑pound research infrastructures and grant funding supporting the Trusts cutting‑edge portfolio of clinical trials and studies across a breadth of health conditions. We are looking for an experienced finance professional to join our team to help continually grow and manage our research portfolio, work with the Trusts clinical researchers providing finance advice and support, and also support the Trusts commercial research portfolio. This role will provide the post holder with varied experience across NHS, DHSC, University and life‑sciences finance with an opportunity to also work closely with the Trusts management accounts team.

Working Pattern

37.5 hours per week, 9‑5.

Interview Date

24th November 2025.

Responsibilities

• Oversee the finance team within the R&D Directorate, ensuring that financial information is processed in accordance with internal Trust procedures, standing financial instructions, and external requirements of NIHR, Charity and Life Sciences commercial partners.
• Provide comprehensive support for the management of R&D funding, including robust processes for commercial and non‑commercial income projection, activity costing, cost recovery and funding distribution across the Trust, and managing highly complex enquiries.
• Work closely with the R&D Director, Associate Directors, Lead Research Nurse, Matron and Senior R&D Manager to provide financial assistance and advice to the R&D professional services and clinical teams, contribute to corporate reporting to the Trust Board and external NIHR funders, and provide strategic and business planning advice to senior R&D staff.
• Prepare and complete internal Trust and external accounts and returns, ensuring compliance with internal and external timescales and legal requirements, and interpreting these where necessary.

Benefits

We work together to maintain a culture that develops and supports you and your team. Funding may be available for a care certificate, a degree or leadership qualifications, days off to study, CPD or rotational placements.

We provide flexible working schemes and family‑friendly policies. Paid annual leave starts at 27 days (plus bank holidays) and rises to 33 days (plus bank holidays) for those starting out in the NHS.

Access to comprehensive occupational health services, counselling, onsite wellbeing activities and groups.

Extensive staff discounts on shopping, fitness and leisure options, technology and home appliance purchases.

National discount services such as the Blue Light Card and Health Service Discounts. Salary sacrifice options including an OFSTED‑rated nursery onsite at Exeter, car lease schemes, and the NHS Pension scheme.

Cycle‑to‑work scheme available.

Inclusive Employer Statement

As an inclusive employer, the Royal Devon values diversity and is committed to creating a culture of inclusivity where everyone can be themselves and reach their full potential. Preference will be given to staff with Priority and ‘At Risk’ status, including NHS At Risk staff throughout Devon.

Employer Details

Royal Devon University Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust

Royal Devon and Exeter Hospital, Barrack Road, Exeter, Devon, EX2 5DW

Website: https://royaldevon.nhs.uk/

Disclosure and Barring Service Check

This post is subject to the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act (Exceptions Order) 1975 and requires a Disclosure to be made to the Disclosure and Barring Service (formerly known as CRB) to check for any previous criminal convictions.

Legal & EEO Information

The Royal Devon University Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust reserves the right to close vacancy when sufficient applications have been received.

Contact

Helen Quinn, Research and Development Director – [e-mail]

Elizabeth Gordon, Lead Research Nurse – [e-mail]