Head of Finance Systems

University of East London

University of East London (UEL) founded in 1898 and proud to change lives through education. Our goal is to advance industry 5.0 careers-first education and provide a clear path to the jobs and opportunities of the future. We’re committed to driving diversity in the 5.0 talent pipeline, working in partnership to promote talent wherever it is found and creating a balanced, inclusive, and green future.

But we can’t achieve this goal alone. We need forward-thinking, innovative, and curious individuals like you to join our community and help us craft our future. As part of our team, you’ll have opportunity to work with a diverse range of people who share your passion for creating positive change. We’re an inclusive and welcoming community that is constantly moving forward, never satisfied with the status quo.

The Finance Department at the University of East London plays a key role in managing the University’s financial resources to ensure stability, efficiency, and strategic investment in its future, aligned with Vision 2028. We provide a comprehensive range of financial services, including budgeting, financial and tax planning, compliance, and advisory support, ensuring the University operates smoothly. Our responsibilities also include the preparation of annual financial statements, statutory reporting, and regulatory submissions.

We work proactively with schools and services staff, and students to offer financial guidance, maintain compliance, and drive value for money across all operations.

As the Head of Finance Systems, you will lead the development and management of the University’s finance systems to ensure they are efficient, integrated, and aligned with UEL’s strategic objectives under Vision 2028. Reporting to the Deputy Chief Finance Officer, you will play a key role in shaping the University’s financial systems strategy, maintaining data integrity, and supporting effective decision‑making across the institution.

• Lead, develop, and manage the Finance Systems Team, fostering collaboration and a strong customer‑service culture.
• Oversee all finance‑owned and integrated systems, ensuring reliability, accuracy, and operational efficiency.
• Drive the development and implementation of new systems and enhancements that support business improvement and digital transformation.
• Develop and deliver accurate and timely financial reporting to support effective planning, compliance, and performance monitoring.
• Work collaboratively with internal and external stakeholders to identify system needs and deliver innovative solutions.
• Lead the Finance Systems helpdesk, ensuring responsive, high‑quality service across the University community.

We have recently gone live with a new SaaS finance system, Unit4 ERPx, replacing our previous on‑premises Unit4 ERP7 system.

You will be a proactive and strategic leader with extensive experience in developing, managing, and enhancing major finance systems within a complex organisation. You will combine strong technical understanding with excellent people and project management skills.

• A degree or equivalent qualification and be a qualified accountant or have significant equivalent experience.
• Proven experience in the implementation, development, and administration of major finance systems and related strategies.
• Experience leading teams and driving organisational and cultural change to improve service delivery.
• Strong business acumen with the ability to manage complex operations and budgets effectively.
• Excellent communication skills with the ability to explain technical and financial concepts clearly to a wide range of audiences.
• A collaborative approach, building positive relationships across the University to deliver shared objectives.

You will also demonstrate the University’s core values of Passion, Inclusion, and Courage, and a commitment to equality, diversity, and inclusivity in everything you do.

At UEL, we believe that a great role is about more than just a salary. It’s about the complete package, including our outstanding work environment and inclusive culture.

We offer a…