Financial Controller

BIMM University; United Kingdom; On-site; GBP 83,000 - 96,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading arts university in Brighton is looking for a Financial Controller to oversee accounting operations, deliver insightful financial reporting, and support strategic decision-making. The ideal candidate will have a recognized finance qualification and extensive experience in financial management. This role offers a comprehensive benefits package, including 25 days of holiday and a SMART pension. Join a vibrant community committed to inclusivity and empowering students in their creative journeys.

Benefits

25 days holiday per year (FTE)

SMART pension

Comprehensive benefits package

Qualifications

• Extensive experience in a senior accounting or financial management position.
• Ability to translate financial data into clear strategic insights.
• Experience implementing process improvements.

Responsibilities

• Oversee all accounting operations including billing and procurement.
• Deliver timely and insightful monthly management reports.
• Manage budgeting and forecasting cycles and analyze variances.

Skills

Excellent leadership skills

Strong analytical skills

Financial reporting

Communication skills

Education

Recognized finance qualification (ICAEW, CIMA, or equivalent)

Tools

Accounting software

ERP systems

Job description

Financial Controller

Location: Brighton

Salary: From GBP83,200 per annum

At BIMM University, we're more than just an educational institution; we're a vibrant community dedicated to nurturing creativity and empowering students to reach their full potential. With campuses across the UK, Ireland, and Germany, we offer a diverse range of courses in modern music, performing arts, filmmaking and creative technology. Our commitment to excellence in creative arts education sets us apart, providing students with the knowledge, skills, and opportunities they need to succeed in their chosen fields.

About the Role

As Financial Controller, you will lead the delivery and continuous improvement of our financial control reporting and processes. You will be responsible for driving enhancements across key areas, including Procure to Pay, Credit Control, and Performance Reporting. In parallel, you will provide high–quality financial insights to support strategic decision–making at senior levels.

This role plays a vital part in ensuring a robust, responsive finance function for the Board, Investors, and Lenders. It will also be critical in helping the University navigate an increasingly complex and fast–evolving financial and regulatory landscape.

What You\'ll Do

• Oversee all accounting operations including billing, accounts receivable/payable, general ledger, procurement, and revenue recognition.
• Lead day–to–day cash management and cashflow forecasting.
• Deliver timely and insightful monthly management reports, including key performance indicators (KPIs).
• Manage budgeting and forecasting cycles, analyse variances, and implement corrective actions.
• Provide financial analysis to support key business decisions and strategic planning.
• Develop and uphold robust internal control policies and procedures.
• Support internal and external audits and ensure compliance.
• Evaluate financial risks and propose mitigation strategies.
• Lead, support, and mentor the financial control team.
• Champion finance s role in driving BIMM University s ESG priorities.
• Deliver training and support to non–financial budget holders to improve financial literacy across the University.

What You\'ll Bring

• A recognised finance qualification (ICAEW, CIMA, or equivalent).
• Extensive experience in a senior accounting or financial management position.
• A strong command of accounting principles with the ability to translate financial data into clear strategic insights.
• Excellent leadership, interpersonal, and communication skills.
• A solutions–focused mindset with strong attention to detail and a drive for results.
• Experience working with accounting software and ERP systems, including implementing process improvements.
• A solid understanding of sector–specific trends, challenges, and opportunities.
• Strong analytical and reporting skills, with the ability to present complex information clearly to a variety of stakeholders.
• A track record of building collaborative, cross–functional relationships.

Why BIMM University

We are a values–led organisation, meaning our core values underpin all that we do:

Believe in Everyone, Challenge the Norm, Grow Together, Do The Right Thing, Own It.

In addition to joining a committed and dedicated team, you will have access to:

• 25 days holiday per year (FTE)
• SMART pension
• A comprehensive benefits package

We continually strive to create a culture of inclusivity so that we truly represent our diverse communities. We particularly welcome applications from people of colour who are underrepresented in our organisation.

We are committed to promoting the safety and welfare of our students therefore, all successful applicants are required to complete a basic DBS disclosure. Depending on the role, you may be required to complete an enhanced check / enhanced check with barred list if required by statute and internal policy.

How To Apply

Click apply and you will be redirected to our careers site to complete your application.