Senior Finance Analyst FTC

Ivy Rock Partners are delighted to be supporting a leading London-based higher education institution recognised globally for its creativity, inclusivity, and academic excellence. The organisation combines world-class teaching and research with a vibrant, collaborative culture, making it an exceptional place to work and develop your skillset.The opportunity:We are seeking a Senior Finance Analysts to join the central finance team on a fixed-term contract of 18 months. The role sits at the heart of the organisation’s financial planning and analysis function, providing high-quality insight to support strategic and operational decision-making.The position offers an excellent opportunity to play a key role in the financial management of a complex and innovative institution, working with senior stakeholders to enhance performance, data integrity, and financial understanding.Key responsibilities:Lead and deliver financial planning, forecasting, and analysis to inform strategic and operational decisionsPrepare and present management accounts, variance analysis, and financial performance reportsDevelop and maintain robust financial models, performing scenario and sensitivity analysisWork confidently with large and complex data sets, ensuring accuracy, insight, and complianceContribute to statutory accounts preparation and external reporting, ensuring accuracy and adherence to accounting standardsSupport cashflow forecasting, business planning, and audit preparationPartner with colleagues across Finance and senior leadership to strengthen financial processes and insightPlay an active role in finance transformation projects, including chart of accounts redesign and data model developmentAbout you:You will be a skilled finance professional who combines strong analytical expertise with excellent communication and stakeholder management skills.Essential experience / qualifications:Qualified accountant (ACA, ACCA, CIMA or equivalent)Significant experience in financial planning and analysis (FP&A) or senior analytical rolesProven ability to manage and interpret large, complex data setsStrong understanding of statutory accounts and financial reporting requirementsExcellent Excel and financial modelling skillsConfident presenting complex financial information clearly to non-financial audiencesDesirable experience:Experience within higher education, public sector, or large multi-entity organisationsInvolvement in finance data or systems transformation projectsBenefits:Generous annual leave (34 days excluding bank holidays) plus 2 days’ paid volunteering leave.Discounted medical insurance and eye care benefits.Pension scheme with competitive employer contribution (e.g., LGPS) for eligible staff.Flexible and hybrid working arrangements (flexible hours and dynamic working policy).Discounts and interest-free loans for travel, tech purchases, lifestyle brands, gym/fitness centre access, nursery fees and moreDefined LGPS pension schemeStaff development supportFor a confidential conversation about the role please get in touch with Megan Hunter. Ivy Rock Partners are delighted to be supporting a leading London-based higher education institution recognised globally for its creativity, inclusivity, and academic excellence. The organisation combines world-class teaching and research with a vibrant, collaborative culture, making it an exceptional place to work and develop your skillset. The opportunity: We are seeking a Senior Finance Analysts to join the central finance team on a fixed-term contract of 18 months. The role sits at the heart of the organisation’s financial planning and analysis function, providing high-quality insight to support strategic and operational decision-making. The position offers an excellent opportunity to play a key role in the financial management of a complex and innovative institution, working with senior stakeholders to enhance performance, data integrity, and financial understanding. Key responsibilities: Lead and deliver financial planning, forecasting, and analysis to inform strategic and operational decisions Prepare and present management accounts, variance analysis, and financial performance reports Develop and maintain robust financial models, performing scenario and sensitivity analysis Work confidently with large and complex data sets, ensuring accuracy, insight, and compliance Contribute to statutory accounts preparation and external reporting, ensuring accuracy and adherence to accounting standards Support cashflow forecasting, business planning, and audit preparation Partner with colleagues across Finance and senior leadership to strengthen financial processes and insight Play an active role in finance transformation projects, including chart of accounts redesign and data model development You will be a skilled finance professional who combines strong analytical expertise with excellent communication and stakeholder management skills. Essential experience / qualifications: Qualified accountant (ACA, ACCA, CIMA or equivalent) Significant experience in financial planning and analysis (FP&A) or senior analytical roles Proven ability to manage and interpret large, complex data sets Strong understanding of statutory accounts and financial reporting requirements Excellent Excel and financial modelling skills Confident presenting complex financial information clearly to non-financial audiences Desirable experience: Experience within higher education, public sector, or large multi-entity organisations Involvement in finance data or systems transformation projects Generous annual leave (34 days excluding bank holidays) plus 2 days’ paid volunteering leave. Discounted medical insurance and eye care benefits. Pension scheme with competitive employer contribution (e.g., LGPS) for eligible staff. Flexible and hybrid working arrangements (flexible hours and dynamic working policy). Discounts and interest-free loans for travel, tech purchases, lifestyle brands, gym/fitness centre access, nursery fees and more Defined LGPS pension scheme Staff development support For a confidential conversation about the role please get in touch with Megan Hunter.