Research Accountant (FM

Research Accountant Opportunity: Drive Financial Excellence in Higher Education

This role offers a compelling opportunity for a qualified and experienced accountant to make a significant impact within a reputable university. As a Research Accountant, you will be at the forefront of managing the financial intricacies of the institution's research activities, playing a pivotal role in ensuring accuracy, compliance, and insightful financial reporting.

If you're seeking a position where you can leverage your accounting expertise, build strategic relationships, and contribute to a vibrant academic community, this could be the perfect next step in your career.

Key Advantages for Candidates:

• Strategic Impact: You will directly influence the financial health of the university's research endeavors, a critical component of its academic mission. This role offers the chance to shape financial processes and contribute to informed decision-making.
• Business Partnering Experience: This position emphasizes acting as a trusted business partner to Research Institutes and Core Research Facilities. This is an excellent opportunity to develop strong stakeholder management skills, provide valuable financial advice to both finance and non-finance professionals, and build lasting working relationships.
• Career Development in Higher Education: Gaining in-depth experience within the Higher Education sector is a significant advantage. You'll develop a nuanced understanding of university funding models, research grants, and the unique financial landscape of academic institutions.
• Work-Life Balance Focus: The university is committed to promoting a positive work-life balance, offering hybrid working arrangements. This flexibility, provided you are based in the UK, allows for greater autonomy and better integration of professional and personal commitments.
• Comprehensive Benefits Package: The university provides an attractive array of benefits, including:
  • Generous annual leave allowance with additional discretionary days.
  • Robust professional development opportunities, including apprenticeships and LinkedIn Learning.
  • Health and well-being support, such as free counselling services.
  • Employee discounts on gym memberships, postgraduate tuition, and language courses.
  • Support for international candidates through relocation allowances and visa assistance.
• Commitment to Diversity and Inclusion: The university actively celebrates diversity and fosters an inclusive environment. This is an opportunity to work within an organization that values varied perspectives and actively encourages applications from under-represented groups.

Key Considerations for Candidates:

• Specialized Accounting Focus: This role specifically targets the financial accounting and reporting of research activities. Candidates with prior experience in managing research grants, overhead calculations, and the specific funding streams within higher education will find this particularly relevant.
• Qualified Accountant Requirement: A qualification as a chartered accountant (e.g., ACA, ACCA, CIMA, CA) is essential. This ensures a strong foundational understanding of accounting principles and practices.
• Higher Education Sector Knowledge: While experience in higher education is strongly preferred, candidates should be prepared to demonstrate a clear understanding of how universities are funded and the specific financial reporting requirements within this sector.
• Data Accuracy and Reporting: The role involves maintaining detailed reports and supporting external returns. A meticulous approach to data accuracy and a strong ability to translate complex financial information into understandable reports will be crucial.
• Collaborative Approach: Success in this role hinges on the ability to work collaboratively with academic and administrative teams. Strong interpersonal and communication skills are therefore paramount.
• Technical Proficiency: Excellent Excel skills and experience with finance systems are a prerequisite. Candidates should be comfortable working with financial software and data analysis tools.

This Research Accountant position presents a fantastic opportunity for a driven and qualified professional to advance their career within a dynamic and supportive university setting. If you are looking to combine your accounting acumen with a role that has a tangible impact on academic advancement, this opportunity warrants your serious consideration.