The Role
The University of Cambridge is seeking a Senior Investment Analyst to lead its Portfolio Performance (Benefits and Scenarios Modelling) function within the University Change Support Office (UCSO). This is a senior analytical role with responsibility for providing decision-ready quantitative insight into the University's major investments and portfolio of change programmes.
UCSO provides expertise in change and communications, benefits realisation, portfolio planning, common standards, strategic reporting and business-case appraisal. It supports the Change and Programme Management Board in directing and overseeing the University's portfolio of major change programmes.
The post-holder will own the modelling standards, analytical methods and quality assurance arrangements used to assess benefits, costs, risks, interdependencies and return on investment. They will lead the financial assessment of change programme business cases, deliver complex analytical studies and rapid assessments for senior stakeholders, and strengthen modelling capability through practical guidance and training.
The role will also provide analytical support to the Office for Investment Oversight and Appraisal, including the development and appraisal of business cases, work relating to the University's future internal accounting system, and tools to support medium-term financial and strategic planning. The post has reporting responsibilities to the Director of Transformation Programmes and the Director of the Office for Investment Oversight and Appraisal.
Key responsibilities
- Lead the financial assessment of change programme business cases, including benefits, capital costs, income and expenditure impacts, risks, opportunities, affordability and options appraisal
- Develop robust medium- and long-term financial models, using scenario testing and risk analysis to support strategic investment decisions
- Establish and maintain consistent modelling standards, datasets, dashboards, performance measures and quality assurance arrangements for portfolio reporting and benefits evaluation
- Provide independent insight and constructive challenge to programme, project and investment stakeholders, ensuring that assumptions, evidence, costs, benefits and risks are clearly understood
- Prepare authoritative reports, presentations and briefing papers for senior leaders and governance committees and develop practical training and guidance in quantitative appraisal methods
About you
You will:
- Have recent experience of building and using sophisticated long-term financial models for investment analysis, financial projections and scenario testing within a large or complex organisation
- Bring substantial experience of investment appraisal, business-case development and the application of specialist quantitative expertise to complex and ambiguous problems
- Be able to communicate complex analysis clearly to specialist and non-specialist audiences, influence senior stakeholders and governance groups, and work effectively across multidisciplinary teams
- Have advanced Excel modelling capability and experience of reporting and data visualisation tools, together with a postgraduate-level qualification, or equivalent professional expertise, in a quantitative discipline
- Be highly numerate, evidence-driven and committed to rigorous governance, value for money and continuous improvement
The Benefits
In return, you will receive an extensive reward and benefits package including:
- 41 days annual leave, including bank holidays
- Potential for flexible and hybrid working, subject to the operational needs of the role
- A generous pension scheme, discount portal, cycle to work scheme, access to the University accommodation service, relocation expenses scheme, employee assistance programme and family-friendly policies
The funds for this post are available for 3 years in the first instance.
Applications are welcome from internal candidates who would like to apply for the role on the basis of a secondment from their current role in the University.
We welcome applications from individuals who wish to be considered for part-time working or other flexible working arrangements.
Click the 'Apply' button below to register an account with our recruitment system (if you have not already) and apply online.
When applying, please upload your CV and cover letter which clearly sets out how you meet the criteria listed in the person specification (the knowledge, skills, and experience required for the role) along with relevant examples. Candidates will be shortlisted and invited to interview based upon these criteria.
Interviews will be held in early November 2026.
Additional information regarding the role can be found within the further information file. If you wish to discuss this role in more detail, or have questions about the application process, enquiries are welcome. Please contact the team via change@admin.cam.ac.uk.
Please quote reference YV51214 on your application and in any correspondence about this vacancy.
The University actively supports equality, diversity and inclusion and encourages applications from all sections of society.
The University has a responsibility to ensure that all employees are eligible to live and work in the UK.
Download further information
Key information
Department/location
University Change Support Office
Salary
£63,606-£67,468
Reference
YV51214
Category
Academic-related
Date published
29 September 2026
Closing date
25 October 2026