Do you have exceptional experience in senior leadership and finance, with a strong commercial and business focus? Are you excellent at influencing and negotiating with others, with an innovative and creative approach to problem-solving and decision making? If so, this new role as Deputy Director of Finance could be ideal. The successful candidate will provide leadership to the Financial Planning and Strategy, Management Accounting and Financial Accounting teams, in the delivery of the University’s financial services in support of the core goals embedded in the University’s strategic plan and Kent 2030 transformation. The role will work closely with members of the Senior Financial Management Team and across the Finance Directorate and with other professionals in order to ensure sound financial management of the University. This will involve overseeing the production of financial plans, budgets and other financial information for management purposes alongside monitoring these and reporting on the University’s financial performance The successful candidate will deputise for the Director of Finance, providing leadership and strategic direction, helping to ensure that the University remains financially sustainable whilst managing risks, in order to achieve its financial strategy and acting in compliance while keeping senior stakeholders informed and satisfied. As the Deputy Director of Finance, you can expect to be involved in: Support the Director of Finance and be a driving force in the strategic leadership, forward planning and day to day management of the Finance Dept. Support the development of the University’s financial strategies, in conjunction with the Director of Finance, to include financial planning, capital and revenue investment programme, associated companies and joint ventures to make a significant contribution to support the corporate objectives of the University Ensure that the Executive Group and Council are aware of the financial implications of the University’s proposed future direction and set out options for delivering the financial strategy of the University Develop and maintain the financial framework for the University, advising on financial sustainability concerns and investment capacity Direct the production of annual financial statements and other financial data returns as are required by legislation and by external bodies What will you bring to the role? Professionally qualified (CCAB) plus significant relevant experience, or substantial experience and proven success in a strategically important broad function/specialist area Experience of successfully managing high performing financial professionals and other staff, with well-developed leadership skills and a clear passion for developing motivated staff and strong teams Effective problem solving and decision-making skills, the confidence to delegate and to empower colleagues with an open and consultative style of management Excellent and effective negotiation, influencing and communication skills A commitment to the ambitions of the University and the values of a research-intensive institution and able to demonstrate a clear understanding of the challenges facing Higher Education in a UK and International setting What we can offer in return: As a member of our team, you can expect a friendly, open and collaborative working environment and support in your development and wellbeing. You'll enjoy a range of great staff benefits including: hybrid working options allowing a flexible blend of office and home working (to be agreed in line with business needs) 43 days' leave per year (personal leave, bank holidays and additional days allocated for the Christmas period, pro rata for part-time staff) excellent pension scheme with generous employer contributions corporate employee-funded healthcare plan, in partnership with Benenden Health retailer and wellbeing discounts via Edenred on campus cinema/theatre, sports facilities, library, nursery (Canterbury) and food outlets study while you work discounts, cycle to work scheme, local business discounts support in your development and wellbeing at all stages of employment, including an Employee Assistance Programme training and development opportunities at all levels on-site parking We are ambitious for our people, our communities and the region we serve – join us in making the world a better place. Visit our website for more on who we are: http://www.kent.ac.uk/about/ Proud member of the Disability Confident employer scheme Disability Confident About Disability Confident