Finance Division 

 

We are seeking a Senior Financial Compliance Specialist to join the University of Oxford’s Finance Division. This pivotal role blends risk management, data analytics, and leadership to support financial integrity and good governance across the University. You will lead two analysts, collaborate across divisions, and contribute to reporting on key financial controls and compliance to the University’s Audit & Scrutiny Committee.

 

Location: Great Clarendon Street, Oxford with the option of some hybrid/remote working

Salary: Grade 8: £49,119 - £58,265 per annum

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/

 

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 

 

The Senior Financial Compliance Specialist will play a key role in strengthening the University’s financial control framework through targeted reviews, data-driven risk analysis, and continuous improvement initiatives. You will assess the design and effectiveness of key controls and processes, using data analytics to identify anomalies, inefficiencies, and emerging risks, ensuring that the University’s financial governance remains robust and responsive.

 

Working collaboratively across departments—including finance, research, HR, cyber, estates, and compliance—you will promote a coordinated approach to managing financial risk and compliance. You will advise departments on best practices, support annual self-assurance exercises, and serve as a trusted contact for financial risk and control queries, helping to foster a culture of transparency and accountability.

 

The role also involves preparing insightful reports and dashboards for senior management, contributing to policy and training development, and supporting internal and external audits. You will lead and develop two Financial Analysts, ensuring high-quality outputs, effective teamwork, and alignment with Finance Division values, while maintaining up-to-date knowledge of best practices in financial risk management and control.

 

About You 

 

• A recognised accountancy qualification (ACA, ACCA, CIMA or equivalent).

• Significant experience in financial assurance, audit or risk management in complex organisations.

• Strong analytical and data visualisation skills.

• Proven experience leading or managing a team.

• Excellent communication and stakeholder engagement skills.

• High ethical standards, and the ability to manage multiple projects effectively.

 

Experience in higher education or familiarity with systems like Oracle, SAP, or Insight4GRC is an advantage.

 

We welcome applications from all sections of the community. We aspire to build a truly diverse community which values and respects every individual’s unique contribution.

 
 

Application Process 

 

To apply, please upload:

 

•         A covering letter/supporting statement

•         Your CV

•         The details of two referees

 

The closing date for applications is 12 noon on 4th November