Functional Lead

Network IT; Greater London; Hybrid; GBP 47,000 - 64,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading organisation in London is seeking a Functional Lead to oversee Research Finance systems, specifically Oracle Projects and WorkTribe. In this senior role, you will drive enhancements, manage a small team, and engage with stakeholders to ensure systems are optimised. Ideal candidates will have experience in system configuration and a strong understanding of research finance processes. This hybrid role offers a salary range of £47,000 to £63,500, with opportunities for process improvement and strategic influence.

Qualifications

• Proven experience in system configuration, testing, and optimisation.
• Strong understanding of research finance processes and system capabilities.
• Ability to manage and develop a team effectively.

Responsibilities

• Provide direction and oversight for Research Finance systems.
• Manage configuration, resolve issues, and lead improvement initiatives.
• Own the functional roadmap for Research Finance systems.

Skills

Oracle Projects knowledge

Strong stakeholder engagement

Problem-solving skills

Organisational skills

Education

Relevant Oracle certification

Job description

Role: Functional Lead

Research Finance Systems

Location: Birmingham (Hybrid)

Salary: £47,000

£63,500

Network IT are supporting a leading organisation in the search for a Functional Lead to take ownership of their Research Finance systems (Oracle Projects and WorkTribe) as a part of their Core Systems Team. This is a senior role combining technical expertise, process improvement, and stakeholder engagement, ensuring these critical systems deliver maximum value and support strategic objectives.

You’ll act as the go-to specialist for Research Finance systems, driving enhancements, shaping functionality, and managing a small team. This is an opportunity to influence system strategy, lead improvements, and work closely with senior stakeholders across the organisation.

Role Overview and Responsibilities

As Functional Lead, you will provide direction and oversight for Research Finance systems, ensuring they are optimised and aligned with business needs. You’ll manage configuration, resolve issues, and lead continuous improvement initiatives.

Own the functional roadmap for Research Finance systems (Oracle Projects and WorkTribe).

Drive enhancements, process improvements, and system optimisation.

Oversee configuration changes and ensure robust testing before deployment.

Manage data integrity and compliance within your functional area.

Act as escalation point for complex issues and liaise with Managed Service Providers.

Maintain documentation including process maps, SOPs, and training guides.

Lead quarterly release planning and regression testing for Oracle updates.

Build strong stakeholder relationships and provide expert advice on best practice.

Manage a small team, setting objectives and supporting development.

Represent CSOT in key forums and deputise for the Head of CSOT when required.

Experience Requirements

To succeed in this role, you should bring:

WorkTribe or Oracle Projects knowledge is essential.

Relevant Oracle certification (highly desirable).

Strong understanding of research finance processes and system capabilities.

Proven experience in system configuration, testing, and optimisation.

Excellent stakeholder engagement and communication skills.

Ability to manage and develop a team effectively.

Strong problem‑solving skills and innovative approach to process improvement.

Organisational skills to manage priorities and deliver against strategic objectives.