Financial Controller

University of Suffolk; Ipswich; On-site; GBP 59,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading educational institution in Ipswich seeks a Financial Controller to lead a transformational finance function. The ideal candidate will drive improvements, develop a high-performing team, and safeguard resources. A qualified accountant with strong interpersonal skills is essential. This role offers competitive compensation and a supportive work environment, with benefits like flexible working and professional development opportunities.

Benefits

30 days annual leave plus 8 bank holidays

Flexible working options

Generous workplace pension scheme

Employee Assistance Programme

Learning and development opportunities

Staff discounts at local amenities

Qualifications

• Experience in leading teams through change within complex organisations.
• Ability to communicate effectively with various stakeholders.
• Commitment to integrity and inclusion.

Responsibilities

• Lead and develop a motivated, customer-focused Financial Operations team.
• Drive improvement and transformation of financial processes.
• Build relationships across the University to support decision-making.
• Champion a culture of accountability and collaboration.
• Safeguard University resources and support sustainable growth.

Skills

Leadership in financial operations

Proactive solution-oriented mindset

Strong communication skills

Ability to inspire and coach

Education

Qualified accountant

Job description

Permanent, full time, 37 hours per week (1.0 FTE) Band 8 - £59,967 to £69,488 per annum

The opportunity

The University of Suffolk is looking for an ambitious Financial Controller to lead change, modernise financial operations and help shape a high-performing, service-focused finance function. This is a senior leadership role for someone who thrives in a dynamic environment, enjoys improving how things work and brings energy, curiosity, and a can‑do attitude. You will lead the Financial Operations team, working closely with colleagues across the University to support transformation, strengthen controls and deliver a positive experience for students, staff and partners.

What You’ll Be Doing

• Leading and developing a motivated, customer‑focused Financial Operations team
• Driving improvement and transformation of financial processes, systems and ways of working
• Building strong relationships across the University to support effective decision‑making
• Championing a culture of accountability, collaboration and continuous improvement
• Playing a key role in safeguarding University resources and supporting sustainable growth
• Acting as a trusted senior advisor and role model for inclusive, values‑led leadership

About You

You are a qualified accountant and an engaging leader who enjoys making a difference. You bring:

• Experience leading teams through change in a complex organisation
• A proactive, solution‑focused mindset and the confidence to challenge and improve
• Strong people skills and the ability to inspire, coach and develop others
• The ability to communicate clearly with a wide range of stakeholders
• A commitment to integrity, inclusion and putting students at the heart of what you do

Experience in Higher Education or large public‑sector organisations is welcome, but not essential.

Why join us?

As well as generous annual leave, USS pension, and flexible working you can be part of an organisation that transforms lives.

• Annual leave entitlement of 30 days for Bands 5 and above, plus 8 bank holidays and any University closure days.
• Enjoy an extra day of paid leave on your birthday, subject to qualifying/service conditions.
• Flexible working, including family friendly policies.
• Competitive workplace pension scheme (USS) – with an employer contribution rate of 14.5%, tax relief on contributions and life cover.
• Staff discounts at a number of local amenities in Ipswich.
• Access to a range of high‑quality learning and development opportunities
• Discounted rates for staff approved to study a UoS undergraduate or postgraduate course, subject to a set of criteria and conditions.
• Cycle to Work and electric vehicle salary sacrifice.
• Employee Assistance Programme (EAP).
• Staff recognition annual awards.

Closing Date: Wednesday 7 January 2026

Interview Date: Thursday 22 January 2026

For an informal discussion about the role, please contact: Jason Kirk, Chief Financial Officer, at [e-mail]

Please see the Job Application Guidance to support your application.

We recommend that you apply as soon as possible, even if the closing date is in the future. Applications received may be reviewed before the closing date and should we receive a high number of applications for this post, or high‑quality applications which demonstrate suitability, we reserve the right to close the vacancy early. We may hold interviews as and when applications are received, and we reserve the right to offer to a candidate prior to the closing date.

We are a values driven organisation, committed to ensuring we remain a beacon for aspiration and achievement, while providing a great environment to work and study. We are committed to promoting a diverse and inclusive community and we encourage applications from under‑represented groups.