Finance Business Partner- Reporting(UK Visa Sponsorship Available)

Job Description

Role Overview

The University of Reading is seeking an experienced Finance Business Partner – Reporting to join our Finance Planning & Strategy team on an 18-month fixed-term basis. Reporting directly to the Deputy Director of Finance, this role will provide high-quality strategic financial insights, develop robust reporting solutions, and support senior leadership in effective decision-making.

The successful candidate will focus on enhancing the University’s financial reporting, ensuring that reports are timely, accurate, and tailored to the needs of stakeholders. Additionally, the role will contribute to the development of future-proof budgeting and forecasting systems.

Key Responsibilities

• Financial Reporting & Analysis: Develop and maintain complex financial reports, presenting information clearly to senior leadership.
• Forecasting & Budgeting: Oversee annual budget and forecasting processes, ensuring alignment with strategic financial goals.
• Strategic Planning Support: Provide analysis and insights to support decision-making, combining quantitative and qualitative data.
• Trend Analysis & Risk Management: Identify financial risks and opportunities, highlighting key trends to inform strategy.
• Stakeholder Engagement: Build strong relationships across the University, acting as a trusted finance partner.
• Process Improvement: Contribute to the implementation of robust, efficient, and future-proof reporting and forecasting solutions.

Person Specification

The ideal candidate will have:

• Proven experience developing and maintaining complex financial reports.
• Strong analytical skills with the ability to interpret and communicate financial data effectively.
• Experience in strategic financial planning, budgeting, and forecasting.
• Ability to influence stakeholders and challenge constructively.
• Excellent organisational and communication skills.
• Experience presenting financial information to senior leadership and non-financial audiences.

Visa & Right-to-Work Information

This role may be eligible for sponsorship under the Skilled Worker Route (SWR). Applicants requiring visa sponsorship are encouraged to review eligibility and points requirements prior to application:

• Skilled Worker Visa Guidance
• Points-Based Immigration System Overview
• UK ENIC – Degree Equivalency for International Applicants

Diversity & Inclusion

The University of Reading is committed to a diverse and inclusive workforce. We actively support:

• Athena SWAN Charter – Gender Equality
• Race Equality Charter
• LGBT+ equality initiatives
• Disability Confident Employer (Level 2)
• Flexible working arrangements, job-sharing, and part-time contracts are welcomed where operationally feasible.

Contact Information

• For informal enquiries, please contact:
• Marie Misselbrook – Deputy Director of Finance