Divisional Financial Controller - Estates

The University of Oxford is seeking a strategic and collaborative financial leader to join us as Divisional Financial Controller for our Estates Division. You will play a pivotal role in overseeing the financial governance, management, and planning of a large and diverse estate – supporting a world-class academic environment.

Location: Estates Services, The Malthouse, Tidmarsh Lane, Oxford, OX1 1NQ with the option of some hybrid/remote working

Salary: £64,228 – £74,191 a discretionary pay range above this amount will be considered

Contract: Full Time, Permanent

About Us

Spanning the historic streets of the "city of dreaming spires," the University of Oxford has been ranked the world’s leading university for nine consecutive years. A place where centuries of tradition meet world-changing innovation, we offer you the chance to shape the future while working in an inspiring environment that promotes excellence. Here, you’ll contribute to ground-breaking research that tackles global challenges - from advancing sustainability to pioneering healthcare solutions - and join a diverse, inclusive community that champions your wellbeing, development, and aspirations. Apply now to become part of our extraordinary legacy.

Integral to the University, the Finance Division aims to enable world-class research and education by collaborating on sound financial strategy to provide long-term resources, underpinned by excellent operational and professional services. For more information please visit: https://finance.admin.ox.ac.uk/

Estates Services manages and develops the University’s diverse property portfolio, overseeing statutory compliance, maintenance, and construction across the estate.

What We Offer

Working at the University of Oxford offers several exclusive benefits, such as:

• 38 days of annual leave (inclusive of public holidays) to support your wellbeing, with the option to purchase up to 10 extra days and additional leave after long service.

• One of the most generous family leave schemes in UK higher education, offering up to 26 weeks of full-pay maternity and adoption leave, plus 12 weeks of full-pay paternity/partner leave.

• A commitment to hybrid and flexible working to suit your lifestyle.

• An excellent contributory pension scheme.

• Affordable and sustainable commuting options, including a cycle loan scheme, discounted bus travel, and season ticket loans.

• Access to a vibrant community through our social, cultural, and sports clubs.

About the Role

As Divisional Financial Controller, you’ll be a trusted advisor to the Director of Estates Services and senior University stakeholders. You’ll lead the Estates finance team, embed a culture of financial sustainability, and oversee budgeting, forecasting and financial reporting processes for a complex, multi-functional estate.

Key responsibilities include:

• Driving the financial strategy and planning of Estates Services.

• Leading financial risk management, reporting and business partnering.

• Supporting large-scale capital projects and operational decision-making.

• Ensuring robust financial controls and providing high-quality insight to senior leaders.

• Acting as the key liaison between Estates Services and the central University Finance Division.

About You

We’re looking for a proactive, experienced financial professional with strong communication and leadership skills. You’ll bring:

• A recognised CCAB/CIMA accounting qualification (or equivalent).

• Proven experience in financial leadership, ideally within estates, capital projects or large operational environments.

• A strong grasp of budgeting, financial planning, project accounting and risk management.

• Excellent interpersonal skills and the ability to engage and influence stakeholders at all levels.

• Demonstrated experience in managing and developing finance teams.

• A strategic mindset, with the ability to deliver results in a complex, multi-stakeholder organisation.

This role meets the criteria for sponsorship under the Skilled Worker visa. The University will meet the cost of the Skilled Worker visa and NHS surcharge for applicants that require a visa.

Please let us know in your application if you require sponsorship.

Application Process

Please apply via this post. Selected candidates will be invited to apply formally via our website

The closing date for applications is 12 noon on 11th August

Interviews will take place on 20th August and will be in person in Oxford