Senior Innovation Finance Officer (UK Visa Sponsorship)

Automotive Jobs
Uk
December 28, 2025
Full Time Permanent
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Job Description

About the Role

We are seeking an experienced and commercially aware Senior Innovation Finance Officer to support the financial management of a portfolio of innovation and commercial projects across the University.

In this role, you will take responsibility for the full post-award financial lifecycle, from project initiation and set-up through to financial reporting, audits, and final closure. You will act as a trusted finance partner to academic teams and professional services colleagues, providing expert advice to ensure projects are delivered in line with funder requirements, contractual obligations, and University financial policies.

Previous experience within higher education is welcome but not essential. Candidates from industry, consultancy, public sector, or other complex environments who can demonstrate strong transferable skills in project accounting, commercial finance, or stakeholder engagement are strongly encouraged to apply.

Key Responsibilities

  • Manage post-award finances for a diverse portfolio of innovation and commercial projects
  • Ensure financial compliance with funder terms, contracts, and University policies
  • Prepare and review financial reports, forecasts, and reconciliations
  • Support audits and ensure accurate financial close-down of projects
  • Provide clear, practical financial guidance to academic and professional colleagues
  • Monitor expenditure, manage financial risks, and support informed decision-making
  • Build effective relationships with internal teams and external partners

About You

You will be a proactive and analytical finance professional with experience in project-based financial management, ideally gained within a complex or regulated environment.

You will bring:

  • A strong understanding of accounting principles and financial controls
  • Excellent IT skills, with confidence using financial and reporting systems
  • Clear and confident communication skills, particularly when explaining finance to non-finance colleagues
  • Strong organisational skills and the ability to manage competing priorities
  • A collaborative approach and confidence providing pragmatic financial advice

About the Research and Innovation Division

The Research and Innovation Division supports the development of ideas and innovations that deliver meaningful impact beyond the University. We work across disciplines to help transform research into real-world solutions, commercial opportunities, and societal benefit.

Our strategy is focused on people, research excellence, interdisciplinarity, integrity, funding success, and international reputation. The scale of our activity reflects this ambition—last year alone we submitted 681 funding bids, secured 230 awards, and supported the set-up of 227 projects, making this a fast-paced and forward-looking environment.

Why Work at Sussex

The University of Sussex is set within a 150-acre campus at the foot of the South Downs, offering an outstanding working environment. The campus is easily accessible, with Falmer train station just a five-minute walk away, alongside regular bus services and dedicated cycling routes supported by a cycle-to-work scheme.

As a globally recognised, research-led university, Sussex is committed to supporting its people and fostering an inclusive, welcoming workplace where everyone can succeed.

Explore:

  • Reward and benefits package
  • Equality, diversity and inclusion at Sussex
  • Right to Work and Visa Sponsorship

All work for the University must be undertaken in the UK. This role may be eligible for sponsorship under the Skilled Worker route, subject to eligibility criteria.

  • SOC Code: 4124 – Finance Officers
  • Skilled Worker going rate: £41,700

Eligibility for sponsorship will depend on whether the applicant can meet the salary threshold using tradeable points and already holds Skilled Worker sponsorship that began before 22 July 2025.

Useful UK government guidance:

Skilled Worker visa overview:
https://www.gov.uk/skilled-worker-visa

Equality Act 2010 guidance:
https://www.gov.uk/guidance/equality-act-2010-guidance

Further Information

The University of Sussex values the diversity of its staff and student community and welcomes applications from candidates of all backgrounds.

Key Dates

  • Closing Date: 13 January 2026 (04:59 AM)
  • Expected Start Date: February 2026

If you experience any issues using the application portal or require reasonable adjustments during the recruitment process,

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