Research Finance Manager(UK Visa Sponsorship Available)

Job Description

Overview of the Role

The University is seeking a proactive Research Finance Manager to provide high-quality financial leadership across a varied and expanding portfolio of research projects. In this role, you will ensure that every research award—from set-up through completion—meets internal governance standards and the requirements of external funders.

Working collaboratively with academic colleagues, funders, Finance Division teams, and Research & Enterprise, you will be responsible for delivering accurate financial reporting, advising on financial compliance, supporting audits, and ensuring robust stewardship of externally funded research.

Additionally, you will supervise a small finance team, guiding their development and promoting a culture where accuracy, service excellence, and process improvement are central.

This role is ideal for finance professionals who want to extend their expertise into research environments while making a meaningful contribution to the University’s strategic ambitions.

What You Will Bring

We welcome applicants from higher education, the public sector, or industry who have:

• Solid core accounting knowledge and understanding of financial controls
• Strong analytical and numerical capability
• The ability to translate financial information clearly for non-specialists
• A methodical approach with high attention to detail
• Experience supporting colleagues and managing competing deadlines
• A commitment to delivering outstanding customer service
• Experience in grant or project accounting is advantageous but not essential, as full training will be provided.

About the Research & Innovation Division

The University’s Research & Innovation Division plays a central role in shaping ideas and fostering research excellence that contributes to national and global progress. Last year the division:

• Submitted 681 research funding proposals
• Secured 230 new awards
• Successfully set up 227 new research projects

Our strategic priorities include strengthening interdisciplinary research, enhancing international reputation, investing in people and skills, and maintaining the highest standards of integrity across research processes.

More information can be found on the University’s Research & Innovation webpage.

Why Join Us?

The University is located adjacent to the South Downs National Park, offering a green and spacious campus with excellent transport connections:

• Falmer Station is a 5-minute walk
• Multiple bus routes serve the campus
• Dedicated cycling paths and a Cycle to Work Scheme

We take pride in being a supportive, research-led institution where staff wellbeing, professional development, and equality of opportunity are embedded in our culture.

Equality, Diversity & Inclusion commitments

For application details, please visit the University’s vacancies page.

The University of Sussex welcomes applications from individuals of all backgrounds and is committed to ensuring that all work for the University is undertaken within the UK.

Visa Guidance

If a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) was issued before 4 April 2024, the minimum salary requirement is £34,800.

For CoS issued on or after 4 April 2024, the SOC code requires a minimum salary of £44,700, unless the “new entrant” route is used.