Assistant Finance & Contracts Manager VB)

Embark on a Rewarding Career in Health and Social Care Research Finance: Assistant Finance & Contracts Manager Opportunity

Are you seeking a dynamic role where your financial acumen can directly contribute to improving national health and care services? The National Institute of Health and Care Research (NIHR) is offering a compelling opportunity for motivated individuals to join their coordinating centre as an Assistant Finance & Contracts Manager. This pivotal position plays a crucial role in the seamless delivery of financial and contractual administration for vital research programmes, underpinning world-leading health and social care advancements.

About the NIHR:

The NIHR is at the forefront of funding, enabling, and delivering groundbreaking health and social care research. Their work not only enhances people's health and wellbeing but also drives economic growth. They are also a significant contributor to applied health research in low and middle-income countries, demonstrating a commitment to global health improvement.

Your Impact as an Assistant Finance & Contracts Manager:

As part of the dedicated Finance and Contracts team, you will be instrumental in supporting Finance Managers with the day-to-day financial and contractual oversight of research initiatives. Key responsibilities include:

• Contractual Review: Scrutinising and approving essential contract and contract variation documentation.
• Financial Assurance: Examining project financial reconciliation statements and executing associated assurance tasks.
• Payment Management: Overseeing the release, monitoring, and reprofiling of project payments.
• Advisory Support: Providing guidance and expertise on financial processes and procedures to colleagues.

What Makes This Opportunity Stand Out:

This role offers a unique blend of financial responsibility within a high-impact sector. The NIHR values its employees and is committed to supporting your career development. Consider these key advantages:

• Meaningful Contribution: Directly contribute to research that improves lives and promotes economic growth.
• Training and Development: While a keen interest in finance is essential, the NIHR acknowledges the unique nature of this role and provides comprehensive training to ensure your success.
• Work-Life Balance: Enjoy a hybrid working model, typically involving 20% office-based work, promoting flexibility.
• Wellbeing Focus: Benefit from an organisation with a strong commitment to employee wellbeing, evidenced by their long-standing adherence to Mental Health at Work standards.
• Career Growth: The NIHR fosters a culture of continuous learning and provides opportunities for personal and professional advancement.
• Flexible Working: The role is offered at 36 hours per week, with consideration for part-time arrangements (minimum of 28 hours), allowing for greater work-life integration.

Who Will Thrive in This Role?

We are seeking individuals who are passionate about the NIHR's mission and possess strong numerical skills. While formal qualifications are less critical than a demonstrable aptitude, the following qualities will be highly valued:

• Numeracy: A genuine comfort and proficiency in working with numbers.
• Organisation & Prioritisation: The ability to effectively manage and prioritise your own workload.
• Analytical & Self-Motivated: A proactive approach to problem-solving and independent work.
• Team Collaboration: The capacity to work autonomously and contribute positively to team objectives.
• Communication Skills: Clear and effective verbal and written communication abilities.
• Technical Proficiency: Competence in Microsoft Office, with a particular emphasis on Excel.

Important Note: Upon appointment, the job title will be Assistant Research Awards Manager.

Key Considerations for Your Career Path:

This position is an excellent stepping stone for individuals looking to build a career in finance within the public sector or research institutions. It provides exposure to complex financial management in a mission-driven environment. Candidates with a background in finance, administration, or project support who are looking to specialise in research funding and contractual processes will find this role particularly attractive. The training provided will equip you with specialised knowledge, enhancing your marketability in this niche area.

Additional Information:

• Salary: £31,236 to £35,608 per annum (full-time).
• Contract Type: Fixed Term until 31/03/2027.
• Working Hours: 36 hours per week (part-time considered from 28 hours).
• Closing Date: 10 November 2025.
• Section: Management, Specialist & Administrative.

This is an exceptional chance to join an organisation that is fundamentally shaping the future of health and social care. If you are ready to make a tangible difference and develop your career in a supportive and forward-thinking environment, we encourage you to apply.