Deputy Director of Finance (Operations)

Right to work: Please note that it will not be possible for the University to issue a Certificate of Sponsorship to the successful candidate for this position. Therefore, the appointable candidate will need to be eligible to work in the UK or have leave to remain in the UK and associated right to work for the duration of their employment with the University, in accordance with the Immigration, Asylum and Nationality Act 2006.

Full-Time, Permanent

We are seeking an experienced and strategic finance leader to join our senior team as Deputy Director of Finance (Operations). Reporting to the Chief Finance Officer, you will play a pivotal role in shaping and delivering high-quality financial services across our University. 

About the role

You will lead financial operations, ensuring robust financial control, regulatory compliance, and effective service delivery across areas including financial accounting, payroll, treasury, tax, and student fees teams. You will oversee key external relationships (auditors, HMRC, banks and advisers), manage financial risk, and take a leading role in the preparation of annual financial statements. 

What we’re looking for:

• A qualified accountant (ACA, ACCA or equivalent) with strong technical expertise across financial operations
• Proven leadership experience managing high-performing teams in a complex organisation
• Strong knowledge of financial compliance, tax, treasury and risk management
• Excellent communication and stakeholder engagement skills
• The ability to drive continuous improvement and promote a strong compliance culture 

In return we offer a highly competitive rewards and benefits package including:

For queries on the application process the Human Resources Department can be contacted by email at: recruitment@rhul.ac.uk 

Please quote the reference: 0726-229

Closing Date: 23:59, 21 July 2026  

Interview Date: To be confirmed

The university has adopted hybrid working for some roles therefore some remote working may be possible for this role.

Royal Holloway is committed to equality, diversity and inclusion (EDI), and encourages applications from all people regardless of age, disability, gender, marital status, parental status, race, religion or belief, sexual orientation, or trans status or history. More information on our structures and initiatives around EDI, including information on staff diversity networks, can be found on our Equality and Diversity Intranet page.