Research Finance Planning Manager

Adecco; Greater London; Hybrid; GBP 80,000 - 100,000; Part time

Job summary

A leading recruitment agency is seeking a temporary Research Finance Planning Manager to support financial planning and forecasting for academic projects. The role offers an exciting opportunity to collaborate with diverse teams and improve financial processes. Candidates should have a strong background in financial planning, data analysis, and excellent communication skills. Join us in making a difference in higher education while enjoying a hybrid working model in London.

Qualifications

• Proven experience in forecasting, financial planning, and data analysis within a higher education research environment.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with the ability to work autonomously and collaboratively.
• Excellent communication skills, capable of conveying financial information to non-financial stakeholders.

Responsibilities

• Collaborate with finance teams to gather accurate data.
• Develop financial forecasts for research projects.
• Create reports summarising forecast data.

Skills

Forecasting

Financial planning

Data analysis

Analytical skills

Communication skills

Problem-solving

Microsoft Excel

Education

Bachelor's degree in Finance/Accounting or equivalent

Job description

Research Finance Planning Manager (Temporary Contract)

Location: London/Hybrid

Contract Length: 4 Months initially

Day Rate: Competitive via Umbrella Company

About the Role

As the Research Finance Planning Manager, you will play a pivotal role in shaping the financial landscape of research and enterprise projects. Your expertise in financial planning, forecasting, and data analysis will be vital in supporting the university's strategic goals. This is an exciting opportunity to collaborate with diverse teams and drive process improvements in a vibrant academic environment.

Key Responsibilties

• Collaboration: Partner with Post-Award, Pre-Award, and Finance teams to gather accurate data on active grants and pipeline projects.
• Forecasting: Develop and maintain detailed financial forecasts for active and upcoming research and enterprise projects, utilising Work Tribe and Unit 4 systems.
• Reporting: Create clear and concise reports summarising forecast data, highlighting potential risks and opportunities for academic departments.
• Process Improvement: Identify and implement enhancements to grant management and financial processes for increased efficiency and accuracy.
• Financial Modelling: Assist in developing bottom-up research income targets and analyse resource capacity requirements.
• Ad-hoc Support: Provide data analysis and reporting related to research grants and enterprise projects as needed.

Key Deliverables

• Produce comprehensive forecast reports for the 2025/26 and 2026/27 financial years, supporting current year planning and draught budget preparation.
• Present projections to Academic Heads, clearly explaining methodologies and assumptions.
• Evaluate current research accounting and forecasting processes, offering recommendations for improvements.

What You Bring

• Proven experience in forecasting, financial planning, and data analysis within a higher education research environment.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with the ability to work autonomously and collaboratively.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Excel (advanced) and familiarity with financial systems.
• Excellent communication skills, capable of conveying financial information to non-financial stakeholders.
• A bachelor's degree or equivalent in a relevant field (e.g., Finance/Accounting).

Why Join Us?

At our client's organisation, diversity and inclusion are at the core of everything they do. They celebrate differences and recognise that varied perspectives foster innovation and excellence. You will be part of a supportive team that values your contributions and encourages professional growth.

Ready to Apply?

If you're a motivated finance professional looking to make a difference in higher education, we want to hear from you! Please submit your CV demonstrating your relevant experience. Evidence of written work may be requested prior to your application being submitted.

We use generative AI tools to support our candidate screening process. This helps us ensure a fair, consistent, and efficient experience for all applicants. Rest assured, all final decisions are made by our hiring team, and your application will be reviewed with care and attention.

Note: If you do not hear from us within 48 hours, your application has not been successful on this occasion. However, we may keep your details on file for future vacancies.

Join us in shaping the future of academic excellence!

Adecco is a disability-confident employer. It is important to us that we run an inclusive and accessible recruitment process to support candidates of all backgrounds and all abilities to apply. Adecco is committed to building a supportive environment for you to explore the next steps in your career. If you require reasonable adjustments at any stage, please let us know and we will be happy to support you.