Director of Finance at University of Cambridge

Q: What are the key responsibilities of the Director of Finance at University of Cambridge?

The Director of Finance leads financial strategy, planning, operations, governance and risk management. Key duties include driving the Finance Transformation Programme, implementing new budgeting and business partnering approaches, and overseeing enhanced financial systems across this large, devolved organisation.

Q: What is the application deadline for this University of Cambridge finance role?

The closing date for applications is 15 June 2026 . Early applications are strongly encouraged given the senior nature of this Director of Finance position.

Director of Finance

The University of Cambridge is one of the world's leading universities, renowned for its academic excellence, global impact and record of discovery and innovation. Cambridge combines academic autonomy with strong shared governance, operating at extraordinary scale and complexity. The University is a large, complex and devolved organisation, with more than 24,000 students and approximately 12,500 staff. At a time of significant change and opportunity for higher education, Cambridge is focused on sustaining financial strength while continuing to invest in excellence across research, teaching and innovation.

We are seeking to appoint a Director of Finance to play a central role in shaping and delivering the University's financial strategy. A key member of the senior leadership team, the Director of Finance will provide leadership across all aspects of financial planning, operations, governance and risk management, working closely with the University Council and its Committees, and with senior academic and professional leaders across the collegiate University.

The Director of Finance will be significant in driving the University's Finance Transformation Programme, embedding new approaches to budgeting, business planning and business partnering, and supporting the implementation of enhanced financial systems and processes. Working across one of the most complex and devolved organisations in the sector, the Director of Finance will combine strategic insight with operational grip, influencing through partnership, credibility and sound judgement.

An empathy with the University's mission and values will be essential, alongside the ability to operate effectively within a distinctive academic and governance context. The successful candidate will be an experienced and emotionally intelligent leader, with a strong track record of leading large finance functions, managing change, and engaging confidently with senior stakeholders in complex environments.

For further information on this exceptional opportunity, including details of how to apply, please visit www.odgers.com/96001.

Frequently Asked Questions

📊What are the key responsibilities of the Director of Finance at University of Cambridge?

The Director of Finance leads financial strategy, planning, operations, governance and risk management. Key duties include driving the Finance Transformation Programme, implementing new budgeting and business partnering approaches, and overseeing enhanced financial systems across this large, devolved organisation.

🎓What qualifications and experience are required for this Director of Finance role?

Candidates need extensive senior finance leadership experience, a proven track record managing large finance functions, expertise in organisational change, and the ability to engage confidently with senior stakeholders in complex academic environments. An empathy with university mission and values is essential.

📝How do I apply for the Director of Finance position at Cambridge?

Applications are handled externally via Odgers Berndtson. Visit www.odgers.com/96001 for full details on the application process and further information about this executive higher education job.

📅What is the application deadline for this University of Cambridge finance role?

The closing date for applications is 15 June 2026. Early applications are strongly encouraged given the senior nature of this Director of Finance position.

🌍Is this Director of Finance role suitable for candidates outside higher education?

While experience in complex, devolved organisations is highly valued, the role requires an empathy with academic mission and governance. Strong candidates from other sectors with relevant senior finance leadership experience are welcome to apply. See more executive jobs in higher education.

Director of Finance

University of Cambridge

Cambridge, United Kingdom