Job Specifications
Additional Payments
A £5,000 per annum market supplement (pro-rated and non-pensionable) is available for the successful applicant on provision of proof of current membership of an approved accounting body and evidence they hold the appropriate accountancy qualifications.
About The Role
Informal Queries
For informal queries, please contact Chris Wright, Head of Finance (Management Reporting) WBS at Chris.Wright@WBS.AC.UK
WBS Finance is recruiting an Operations Manager to lead and develop the finance processing function and associated financial systems across Warwick Business School, ensuring strong financial governance and compliance with University Financial Regulations and procedures.
The role acts as the School’s technical and operational lead for key finance areas including IR35, purchasing and tendering, supplier and vendor set-ups and delegated authority.
Managing and developing a team of six, the post holder will oversee finance processing and travel booking activities, ensuring the provision of a high-quality, responsive service to internal and external stakeholders.
The role is the first point of contact for complex finance-related queries from WBS staff, ensuring adherence to sound financial management practices and acting as an effective escalation filter for senior leadership.
Working closely with the Dean, Chief Operating Officer, Chief Finance Officer and Head of Finance, the post holder will provide authoritative operational finance advice, strengthen financial controls, and play a central role in shaping and continuously improving financial processes within a large and diverse academic environment.
This position offers significant scope to influence financial practice and support the School’s reputation for robust financial management.
About You
We are looking for a confident and proactive individual with significant experience of working in a complex financial environment.
You will bring a strong understanding of financial operations including areas such as IR35, purchasing, tendering, supplier and vendor set ups and delegated authority.
You will have excellent communication and interpersonal skills and be able to explain technical financial requirements clearly to non finance staff.
You will have considerable experience of leading and developing teams and be able to manage a high volume of operational activity with accuracy and authority.
You will be resilient and credible when providing advice to staff across WBS and will be able to interpret complex guidance from University experts in areas such as Tax and Payroll.
Experience of managing financial processes and controls within a large organisation is essential along with strong analytical skills and a high level of competency in financial systems and Excel. A degree level qualification and a CCAB qualification or equivalent experience are required.
For details on the experience and skills required, please refer to the job description attached as a PDF below.
About The Department
Warwick Business School (WBS) is a world-class business school at the heart of a world-class University, challenging assumptions and championing business as a force for good.
From the pioneering research we undertake, to the students we help to shape, we are for the Change Makers who will impact the world for the better.
We were the first UK business school to be triple accredited by the major bodies (EQUIS, AMBA, AACSB) and our courses consistently rank highly – view all of our rankings here.
However, we’re more than our rankings and we’re proud to be different. We’re down to earth and approachable, and we want WBS to feel like home to our students, our staff and our alumni community. We look to provide a stimulating and fulfilling work environment for all.
One where you will feel supported and encouraged to grow professionally; developing your knowledge, skills, confidence and career.
Our vision
Our Vision Is To Be Europe’s Leading University-based Business School, Developing Transformational Ideas And People That Shape How We Do Business. This Vision Is Supported By Our Three-fold Mission
To develop cutting-edge research that leads debate and deepens our understanding of the practice of business and management
To provide a transformational learning experience, enabling our stakeholders to realise their full potential
To work in partnership with policy and practice, both in terms of our research and teaching activities, to catalyse the impact of our work.
Everything we do is underpinned by our CORE values and driven by a commitment to a Change Maker mindset. We look for this shared commitment across our staff and student community.
Change Makers see the bigger picture. Thinking beyond themselves and their environment, they’re open to other viewpoints and consider the ripple effect of what they do on a personal, social, and commercial level. They’re driven by having the biggest positive impact and a focus on the greater good.
Change
About the Company
We're a world-leading university with the highest academic and research standards. But we're not letting the story end there. That's because we're a place of possibility. We're always looking for new ways to make things happen. And our students, alumni and staff are consistently making an impact - the kind that changes lives, whether close to home or on a global scale. It's the achievements of our people that help explain why our levels of research excellence and scholarship are recognised internationally. It's a prime attra...
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